Smart nanovehicles crossing the barricade: precision targeting of neuroinflammation for ischemic stroke diagnostics and therapeutics

Neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the onset, progression, and clinical outcomes of ischemic stroke (IS). Real-time monitoring and targeted modulation of this neuroinflammatory cascade are essential for improving therapeutic efficacy. However, current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are limited by poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration, low specificity, and inadequate sensitivity in early stages. Engineered nanoparticles, with their tunable dimensions, customizable surface properties, and excellent biocompatibility, have emerged as promising vehicles for the precise diagnosis and targeted treatment of neuroinflammation in IS. In this review, recent advances in the application of various engineered nanoparticles for inflammation-focused diagnosis and therapy are summarized. Furthermore, current challenges and future directions for nanobiotechnology-based inflammatory interventions in IS are discussed.