Lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles of morin: An approach to improve pharmacokinetics and brain disposition in rats via nose-to-brain pathway

Morin (MOR) is a potent neuroprotective agent possessing exceptional antioxidant abilities. The significant challenges associated with MOR delivery are poor solubility and low permeability. The present work aims to develop nasal delivery of MOR using lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LLCs). MOR LLCs were prepared via the hydrotrope method, and 3-factor, 2-level factorial design was chosen for optimization. The results indicated MOR LLCs exhibited cubic vesicular structure, were non-toxic to nasal mucosa, and depicted sustained in vitro release. Pharmacokinetic studies showed MOR LLCs resulted in 1.53-fold and 1.42-fold enhancement in area under the curve than plain MOR oral and nasal groups. The relative drug targeting efficiency and relative direct transport percentage were 1.99-fold and 1.14-fold higher for MOR LLCs than plain nasal MOR, representing efficient brain targeting via olfactory pathways. Nasal administration of MOR LLCs enhances brain targeting and offers a self-administration option for prolonged utilization to alleviate neurological conditions.