Solid lipid nanoparticles: a promising platform for controlled and targeted drug delivery
Abstract
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) represent a significant advancement in the field of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, offering the benefits of enhanced bioavailability, controlled drug release, and biocompatibility. These submicron carriers are composed of solid lipids stabilized by surfactants and are designed to encapsulate a wide variety of therapeutic agents. Compared to conventional nanocarriers such as liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles, SLNs offer improved physical stability, scalability, and controlled release profiles. This review highlights the key components of SLNs, including types of lipids, surfactants, and co-solvents, as well as various preparation methods like high-pressure homogenization, solvent evaporation, and ultrasonication. Characterization techniques such as particle size analysis, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency, and crystallinity are discussed in detail. Different drug incorporation models within the SLN matrix—such as homogeneous matrix, drug-enriched core, or shell—are also elaborated. The review further explores diverse applications of SLNs in oral, parenteral, topical, and pulmonary drug delivery, especially in targeting cancer, central nervous system disorders, and vaccines. Recent advances such as hybrid lipid systems, SLN-loaded hydrogels, and microneedle delivery platforms are also covered, alongside clinical and regulatory perspectives. Solid Lipid Nanoparticles thus hold promising potential as versatile and efficient carriers in modern pharmaceutics.
Keywords: Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs), Drug Delivery, Biocompatibility, Controlled Release, Nanotechnology
Keywords:
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs), Drug Delivery, Biocompatibility, Controlled Release, NanotechnologyDOI
https://doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v15i12.7465References
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