Materials and Technology Involved in Neurological Mechanism Targeting

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) remains a formidable hurdle for therapeutics targeting neurological disorders. Neurological disorders and brain cancer have taken a significant toll on the lives of patients, and treatment options seem to be inadequate. Recent studies have substantiated that the BBB presents not only as a barrier to neurotherapeutics but also as a complex interface that adapts to physiological changes. This particular trait opens up a wide array of opportunities in the context of drug development. Numerous biomaterials and medical devices have emerged that could facilitate drug delivery to the brain either by modifying the properties of therapeutic drugs, altering the route of administration to bypass the BBB, or disrupting the BBB by physical and chemical means. This chapter explores innovative strategies to overcome the hurdles and enhance drug penetration to the central nervous system (CNS). Novel approaches include liposomes, micelles, polymeric nanoparticles, and hydrogels to facilitate the delivery of neurotherapeutics to the brain. Non-invasive methods such as nose-to-brain delivery have also been examined, exploiting specific pathways to bypass the BBB and reach the brain. In recent decades, there has been a surge of interest in cell membrane-based biomimetic vehicles driven by advancements in targeting drug delivery systems and biomimetic nanotechnology. This chapter summarizes key findings in the context of managing neurological disorders. Despite these advancements, challenges such as toxicity, immunogenicity, and clinical immersion persist. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of current research, highlighting the potential of these novel approaches in the management of brain diseases.