Dual Drug Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles For Cancer Treatment: A Recent Advancement And Future Prospectives

Abstract

Cancer therapy often requires combination treatment to achieve optimal efficacy. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have emerged as a promising platform for co-delivery of multiple drugs. The current review discusses the methods of formulation for SLNs, such as high-pressure homogenization, microemulsion, solvent evaporation, solvent injection, and ultrasonication, based on their applicability for heat-sensitive and low-solubility drugs. This study developed dual-drug loaded SLNs combining hydrophilic and lipophilic anticancer agents. The SLNs were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro release. SLNs act through passive targeting by the Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) effect, active targeting by surface ligands, and effective intracellular release of drugs, providing intense cytotoxicity at tumor sites while reducing systemic toxicity. The results suggested that dual-drug loaded SLNs offer a promising approach for cancer therapy, enabling simultaneous delivery of multiple drugs and potentially overcoming resistance.