Advancing diabetic wound healing: The emerging role of solid lipid nanoparticles in targeted nano therapy

Diabetic wounds stand as one of the most severe conditions of diabetes, which can be transformed into chronic, non-healing ulcers and may increase the risk of limb amputation. These complications can be prevented using a novel targeted treatment approach. In recent years, nanoformulation has emerged as a promising technique for addressing such complications. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have attracted substantial interest due to their biocompatibility, stability, and ability to load a wide range of therapeutic agents. This review summarizes synthesis strategies and recent advancements in SLNs for the treatment of diabetic wounds. The lipid matrix of the SLNs is essential for their biocompatibility and for the encapsulation of a wide range of bioactive agents, such as growth factors. The SLNs also possess a high zeta potential and interfacial charge, which improve their stability in biological fluids and influence their interactions with the wound environment. We have also highlighted the different methods for synthesizing SLNs, including microemulsion methods, supercritical fluid methods, spray drying, etc., depending on the route of administration. The SLNs can be administered through the topical, oral, and systemic routes. The topical application of bioactive compounds loaded into SLNs helps reduce microbial load and oxidative stress at the diabetic wound site. However, oral and systemic delivery help manage oxidative stress associated with diabetes, and at the wound site, they provide a dual approach for managing the diabetic wound. Overall, SLNs represent a promising platform for the effective treatment of diabetic wounds, offering multifunctional strategies to overcome current therapeutic limitations.