Microfluidic formulation of diazoxide-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles as a Novel approach for Friedreich’s ataxia treatment

Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a hereditary autosomal recessive disorder characterized by frataxin deficiency, impacting mitochondrial function and causing oxidative damage. Diazoxide (DZX), a vasodilating drug used in the management of systemic hypertension, has shown promise in preclinical models but faces challenges in crossing the blood-brain barrier and potential toxicity at higher doses. This study aimed to create solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with DZX by microfluidic technique to improve blood-brain barrier (BBB) pene tration and reduce side effects. Employing an in vitro BBB model, SLN-DZX demonstrated enhanced permeability compared to plain DZX. Cell viability assays carried out on FRDA fibroblast cells indicated enhanced viability with 1 μM SLN-DZX. Cellular uptake studies confirmed SLN internalization in FRDA fibroblasts, and subsequent treatment with SLN-DZX significantly reduced both total and mitochondrial ROS levels compared to control and empty SLN-treated cells. These findings suggest SLN-DZX as a potential therapeutic approach for FRDA, miti gating oxidative stress with improved BBB penetration and reduced toxicity.