Novel surface-engineered solid lipid nanoparticles of rosuvastatin calcium for low-density lipoprotein-receptor targeting: a Quality by Design-driven perspective

Aim: The present studies describe Quality by Design-oriented development and characterization of surface-engineered solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of rosuvastatin calcium for low density lipoprotein-receptor targeting. Materials & methods: SLNs were systematically prepared employing Compritol 888 and Tween-80. Surface modification of SLNs was accomplished with Phospholipon 90G and DSPE-mPEG-2000 as the ligands for specific targeting to the low density lipoprotein-receptors. SLNs were evaluated for size, potential, entrapment, drug release performance and gastric stability. Also, the formulations were evaluated for cellular cytotoxicity, uptake and permeability, pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and biochemical studies. Results & conclusion: Overall, the studies ratified enhanced biopharmaceutical performance of the surface-engineered SLNs of rosuvastatin as a novel approach for the management of hyperlipidemia-like conditions.