Abstract: A polymer-surfactant nanoparticle formulation, using the anionic surfactant aerosol OT (AOT) and polysaccharide polymer alginate, is used for sustained release of water-soluble drugs. The AOT-alginate nanoparticles are suitable for encapsulating doxorubicin, verapamil and clonidine, as well as therapeutic agents effective against dermal conditions such as psoriasis. The nanoparticles are also suitable for encapsulating photo-activated compounds such as methylene blue for use in photo-dynamic therapy of cancer and other diseases, and for treating tumor cells that exhibit resistance to at least one chemotherapeutic drug.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions and methods useful for the delivery of compounds across the blood brain barrier. Nanoparticles comprising lipids, such as brain lipids, are used to encapsulate drugs and to facilitate drug delivery to the brain.