Nanoemulsions as effective carriers for targeting brain tumors

Lipid-based nanocarriers such as solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoemulsions, and microemulsions are being explored widely for brain targeting. Nanoemulsions are biphasic, kinetically stable heterogeneous dispersions consisting of a mixture of oil, water, and surfactants and various studies have suggested that nanoemulsions have shown sufficient uptake in cancerous cells with significant reduction in tumor growth, reduced toxicity to healthy cells, and reduced tumor invasion. This chapter discusses the status of the BBB, and strategies to bypass the BBB and deliver drugs into the brain. The use of and advancements in nanotechnology are discussed in the earlier part of this chapter, illustrating their potential as a noninvasive technique to bypass the BBB with ability to target specific brain tissue, which further decreases peripheral toxicity. The latter part of the chapter discusses the applicability of nanoemulsions in targeting brain tumors, clinical aspects, and safety and efficacy of these systems.