Exploring chitosan nanoparticles for enhanced therapy in neurological disorders: a comprehensive review.

ABSTRACT

Chitosan nanoparticles have emerged as a promising therapeutic platform for treating neurological disorders due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of functionalization. One of the significant challenges in treating neurological conditions is overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which restricts the effective delivery of therapeutic agents to the brain. Addressing this barrier is crucial for the successful treatment of various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, migraine, psychotic disorders, and brain tumors. Chitosan nanoparticles offer several advantages they enhance drug absorption, protect drugs from degradation, and enable targeted delivery. These properties open new possibilities for non-invasive therapies for neurological conditions. Numerous studies have highlighted the neuroprotective potential of chitosan nanoparticles, demonstrating improved outcomes in animal models of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. Additionally, surface modifications of these nanoparticles allow for the attachment of specific ligands or molecules, enhancing the precision of drug delivery to neuronal cells. Despite these advancements, several challenges persist in the clinical translation of chitosan nanoparticles. Issues such as large-scale production, regulatory hurdles, and the need for further research into long-term safety must be addressed. This review explores recent advancements in the use of chitosan nanoparticles for managing neurological disorders and outlines potential future directions in this rapidly evolving field of research.