Mechanistic insights into the delivery and pharmacodynamic enhancement of baicalin nanoparticles in traditional chinese plant medicine-based antiviral therapies

Baicalin, a major flavonoid extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis , exhibits strong antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties widely recognized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Despite its therapeutic potential, baicalin’s clinical efficacy is limited by its poor solubility, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism. Recent advances in nanotechnology have enabled the development of baicalin-loaded nanoparticles to overcome these challenges and enhance pharmacodynamic performance. This review provides mechanistic insights into the delivery systems of baicalin nanoparticles, including their design, cellular uptake pathways, and biological interactions that promote targeted and sustained drug release. We discuss how nanoformulations improve pharmacokinetics, enhance antiviral efficacy, and synergize with other TCM-based compounds. Preclinical evidence is examined along with the translational potential of baicalin nanoparticles, which highlight the technical challenges, regulatory issues, and safety barriers. In addition, we discuss issues related to clinical confirmation of these nanocarriers and integrated treatment strategies while suggesting future directions for optimizing recent nanotechnology with TCM antiviral strategies. By combining modern nanocarrier systems with traditional herbal medicine, baicalin nanoparticles represent a promising frontier in innovative antiviral drug development. • Baicalin inhibits HBV DNA replication and antigen production, reduces viral load and improves liver function in animal models. • Baicalin exhibits promising activity against herpes simplex virus (HSV). • Baicalin reduces viral replication and protects cells from virus - induced apoptosis, demonstrating broad - spectrum antiviral activity.