Almond oil-loaded liposomal nanocarriers for intranasal delivery in Alzheimer’s disease: Formulation, characterization, and pharmacological evaluation

This study focuses on developing almond oil-loaded liposomal nanocarriers (ALs) for intranasal delivery to manage the progressive neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). ALs were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), particle size analysis, zeta potential, drug loading capacity, and <i>in vitro</i> release studies. FTIR confirmed the absence of significant drug–excipient interactions, while FESEM revealed predominantly spherical to cuboidal vesicles with slight agglomeration. The optimized formulation exhibited a mean particle size of 95.8 nm, a zeta potential of −26.25 mV, a 5.7 ± 1.5% drug loading capacity, and sustained release behavior. Alzheimer’s disease was induced in rats <i>via</i> intraperitoneal administration of scopolamine (1 mg/kg). Neurobehavioral assessments were conducted using the plus maze, Y-maze, radial maze, and rota-rod tests, including transfer latency, spontaneous alternation, correct responses, and motor coordination. Antioxidant (superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation) and biochemical (acetylcholinesterase) parameters, along with hippocampal histopathology, demonstrated significant neuroprotection and absence of toxicity. Overall, intranasal administration of almond oil-loaded liposomes represents a promising strategy for efficient nose-to-brain delivery, offering improved therapeutic potential for managing Alzheimer’s disease.