Targeted pathophysiological treatment of ischemic stroke using nanoparticle-based drug delivery system

Abstract Ischemic stroke poses significant challenges in terms of mortality and disability rates globally. A key obstacle to the successful treatment of ischemic stroke lies in the limited efficacy of administering therapeutic agents. Leveraging the unique properties of nanoparticles for brain targeting and crossing the blood–brain barrier, researchers have engineered diverse nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems to improve the therapeutic outcomes of ischemic stroke. This review provides a concise overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in ischemic stroke, encompassing oxidative stress, glutamate excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and cell death, to elucidate potential targets for nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems. Furthermore, the review outlines the classification of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems according to these distinct physiological processes. This categorization aids in identifying the attributes and commonalities of nanoparticles that target specific pathophysiological pathways in ischemic stroke, thereby facilitating the advancement of nanomedicine development. The review discusses the potential benefits and existing challenges associated with employing nanoparticles in the treatment of ischemic stroke, offering new perspectives on designing efficacious nanoparticles to enhance ischemic stroke treatment outcomes. Graphical Abstract