Pharmaceuticals · 2 authors, 1 centre
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This narrative review summarizes preclinical and formulation studies on solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) as ocular drug delivery platforms. The review concludes that these carriers demonstrate potential for enhancing ocular bioavailability and sustained drug release, but clinical translation has not yet been achieved.
The authors highlight that both carrier types exhibit biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the ability to provide controlled and sustained drug release while improving transcorneal penetration and ocular bioavailability. Surface modification and incorporation into hybrid delivery systems (semisolid/in situ gels, contact lenses) are identified as promising strategies to improve pharmacokinetic characteristics and mucoadhesive properties. The review notes that drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye may be achievable by adjusting formulation parameters. Key limitations include the absence of clinical translation, challenges in batch reproducibility and colloidal stability, and insufficient long-term in vivo toxicity data. The authors recommend quality-by-design approaches during preformulation and the establishment of unified safety and effectiveness evaluation protocols.
