Advanced Drug Delivery in Pediatric Neurology: Developmental Barriers, Nanocarrier Strategies, and Translational Challenges

Treating neurological disorders in children is particularly challenging due to the dynamic maturation of the developing brain, age-dependent pharmacokinetics, and evolving structural and functional properties of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). This review explores the latest advances in drug-delivery systems tailored for pediatric neurology, emphasizing strategies to address physiological and developmental determinants of treatment response across infancy, childhood, and adolescence. The paper begins by outlining the distinct challenges of drug delivery in children, focusing on BBB maturation, transporter expression, metabolic capacity, and neurodevelopmental vulnerability. Emerging delivery systems, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, micelles, gold nanoparticles, and gene- and RNA-based vectors, are further reviewed in relation to major pediatric neurological conditions. These platforms demonstrate promise in enhancing drug bioavailability, targeting specific brain regions, and minimizing systemic toxicity. This paper also covers important safety, regulatory, and ethical considerations in pediatric populations, with a focus on the need for age-appropriate design and thorough clinical validation. Concluding with emerging trends and future directions, this work serves as a comprehensive resource for advancing pediatric neurological therapeutics through state-of-the-art drug delivery technologies.