Lipid-Based Nanocarriers: Redefining Polyphenol Delivery in OcularTherapeutics

Introduction: Polyphenols and plant-derived compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them promising agents for treating ocular diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and dry eye syndrome. However, their clinical utility is limited by poor solubility, low bioavailability, and instability. The reviews aim to highlight the potential of lipid-based nanocarriers to enhance the ocular delivery of polyphenols by overcoming physiological and physicochemical limitations. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted on various lipid-based nanocarriers, including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), Liposomes, Micelles, Cubosomes, nanoemulsions, niosomes, and Transferosomes. The article discusses formulation strategies, surface modifications, characterization techniques, in vitro and in vivo evaluations, and pharmacokinetics studies. Results: Lipid-based nanocarriers improve polyphenol solubility, stability, corneal penetration, ocular retention, and sustained drug release. Surface modification with chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and other bioadhesive polymers enhanced mucoadhesion and targeting. Studies confirmed increased bioavailability, extended residence time, and reduced inflammation in animal models. Encapsulation efficiencies ranged from 60-98% with particle sizes typically below 200nm. Pharmacokinetic studies showed up to 4-6-fold improvement in area under the curve (AUC) and drug residence time over conventional formulations. Discussion: Lipid-based nanocarriers improve polyphenol solubility, stability, corneal penetration, ocular retention, and sustained drug release. Surface modification with chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and other bioadhesive polymers enhanced mucoadhesion and targeting. Conclusion: Lipid-based nanocarriers offer a promising platform for ocular delivery of polyphenols. They improve therapeutic outcomes b