Delivery of Fluorescent Nanoparticles to the Brain

J Mol Neurosci. 2016 Nov;60(3):405-409. doi: 10.1007/s12031-016-0833-5. Epub 2016 Sep 22.

Abstract

Nanotechnology applications in neuroscience promises to deliver significant scientific and technological breakthroughs, providing answers to unresolved questions regarding the processes occurring in the brain. In this perspective, we provide a short background on two distinct fluorescent nanoparticles and summarize several studies focussed on achieving delivery of these into the brain and their interaction with brain tissue. Furthermore, we discuss challenges and opportunities for further development of nanoparticle-based therapies for targeting delivery of drugs across the blood-brain barrier.

Keywords: Blood-brain barrier; Fluorescent nanoparticles; Multifunctional nanoparticles; Nanodiamonds; Upconversion nanoparticles.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / diagnostic imaging
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / metabolism*
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Fluorescent Dyes / pharmacokinetics*
  • Humans
  • Luminescent Proteins / pharmacokinetics*
  • Nanodiamonds*
  • Neuroimaging / methods

Substances

  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Luminescent Proteins
  • Nanodiamonds