Polymeric nanotherapeutics: An emerging therapeutic approach for the management of neurodegenerative disorders

Neurodegeneration is characterized by progressive neuronal loss in the brain impairing normal brain functioning. Cognitive and motor deficits are common symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders. Oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, ageing and genetic predisposition are the causative factors that lead to the onset and course of neurodegenerative diseases. Although various medications are currently approved for the treatment of certain neurodegenerative ailments, many of them just alleviate associated symptoms. Most therapeutic moieties fail to pass through brain barriers and enter the brain in sufficient amounts. Polymeric nanocarriers have demonstrated tremendous potential in encapsulating various substances for controlled drug delivery systems to specific brain areas. Biocompatibility, minimal toxicity, and flexibility towards surface modifications for site-specific targeting bolster their case for brain-specific delivery. The current review provided an inclusive evaluation of achievements in the development of drugs incorporated into polymeric nanoparticles, as well as functional benefits achieved against the most common neurodegenerative diseases. The authors critically reviewed the advances in the development of drugs incorporated into polymeric nanoparticles and the functional effects achieved against most common neurological diseases.