Manganese-chelated liposomes encapsulating antiepileptic drug molecules for epilepsy treatment†

Abstract

Epilepsy is characterized by unpredictable and recurrent seizures, necessitating long-term prophylactic medication to maintain high drug concentrations at the site of onset. However, this approach, coupled with the blood–brain barrier (BBB)'s impediment, often leads to significant toxicity and drug resistance. We report a novel liposomal drug delivery system for epilepsy treatment: liposomes encapsulating two first-line clinical drugs chelated by metal ions. This liposomal formulation demonstrates high biosafety both in vitro and in vivo. Through in vivo fluorescence imaging and T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we verified its efficient penetration into the blood–brain barrier and effective accumulation at epileptic foci. This targeted delivery prevented substantial brain tissue damage caused by epilepsy and maintained neurons in the normal physiological state. Our work presents a promising new therapeutic option for the clinical management of epilepsy.