Nanostructure Lipid Carrier (NLC): the new generation of lipid nanoparticles

Abstract

Nanotechnology having developed exponentially, the aim has been on therapeutic undertaking, particularly for targetted drug therapy. In 1980 K. Eric Drexler developed and popularized the concept of nanotechnology. The nanocarriers has became a revolutionary approach. Nanocarriers are at forefront of the rapidly developing field of nanotechnology with several potential applications in drug delivery, clinical medicines and research. Nanostructure lipid carriers have attracted expanding scientific and commercial vigilance in the last couple of years as alternate carriers for the pharmaceutical consignment. A new generation of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) consisting of a lipid matrix with a special nanostructured has been developed. This nanostructure improves drug loading and firmly incorporates the drug during storage. The present review gives insights on the definitions and characterization of NLC as colloidal carriers including the production techniques, stability techniques and suitable formulations. This review paper also highlights mechanism of skin penetration and the importance of NLC in pharmaceutical applications.