Brain Targeting via Nasal Delivery: Enhanced Docetaxel Delivery Using Mucoadhesive-Coated PLGA Nanoparticles

INTRODUCTION: Brain cancer treatment is hindered by the complexity of the brain and the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which limits the efficacy of anticancer drugs. This study aimed to enhance the delivery of Docetaxel (DTX) for brain cancer treatment through intranasal administration using mucoadhesive polymer coatings on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). Intranasal delivery bypasses the BBB, providing a direct nose-to-brain route with faster drug action. Enhancing mucoadhesion and drug permeation could improve drug bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes while reducing systemic side effects. METHODS: DTX-loaded PLGA NPs were prepared and coated with chitosan (CS), carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), and glycol chitosan (GCS). The NPs were characterized for particle size, surface charge, morphology, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), and loading capacity (LC%). Mucoadhesion and drug release profiles were evaluated in vitro, while pharmacokinetic studies were performed in vivo using rats. RESULTS: The coated NPs had sizes ranging from 209.33 to 339.94 nm with a positive surface charge, spherical shape, and smooth surfaces. Encapsulation efficiency exceeded 98.88%, and loading capacity ranged from 45.23% to 48.83%. In vitro studies confirmed enhanced mucoadhesion and biphasic drug release patterns. Pharmacokinetic analysis in rats showed significantly improved drug absorption, with higher Cmax and AUC0-∞ values for coated NPs compared to uncoated NPs and nonformulated DTX. DISCUSSION: DTX absorption through the nasal mucosa is enhanced, possibly due to the mucoadhesive and permeation-enhancing characteristics of CS and its derivatives. While promising, further studies including efficacy and safety evaluations are needed. CONCLUSION: DTX-loaded PLGA NPs coated with CS, CMCS, and GCS demonstrated enhanced mucoadhesion, improved pharmacokinetics, and superior nasal mucosal absorption. This approach holds potential for targeted brain cancer therapy by reducing dosage requirements and minimizing systemic side effects.