Photomodulation of lymphatic delivery of liposomes to the brain bypassing the blood-brain barrier: new perspectives for glioma therapy

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) has a significant contribution to the protection of the central nervous system (CNS). However, it also limits the brain drug delivery and thereby complicates the treatment of CNS diseases. The development of safe methods for an effective delivery of medications and nanocarriers to the brain can be a revolutionary step in the overcoming this limitation. Here, we report the unique properties of the lymphatic systemto deliver tracers and liposomes to the brainmeninges, brain tissues, and glioma in rats. Using a quantum-dot-based 1267 nm laser (for photosensitizer-free generation of singlet oxygen), we clearly demonstrate photostimulation of lymphatic delivery of liposomes to glioma as well as lymphatic clearance of liposomes from the brain. These pilot findings open promising perspectives for photomodulation of lymphatic delivery of drugs and nanocarriers to the brain pathology bypassing the BBB. The lymphatic smart delivery of liposomes with antitumor drugs in the new brain tumor branches might be a breakthrough strategy for the therapy of gliomas.

Automated summary

The blood-brain barrier plays a crucial role in protecting the central nervous system, but also hinders drug delivery to the brain. Utilizing the lymphatic system and photostimulation with lasers may offer new possibilities for delivering medications and nanocarriers to the brain, bypassing the BBB barrier and potentially revolutionizing the treatment of brain tumors.