Self-Emulsified Nanoparticles: Recent Advancements in Formulation, Characterization and Therapeutic Applications (2020–2025)

Abstract

Self-emulsifying nanoparticle systems commonly classified as self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS), self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) and self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) remain among the most clinically translatable lipid based nanocarrier platforms for overcoming poor aqueous solubility and limited oral bioavailability of drug candidates. Between 2020 and 2025, the field has progressed substantially beyond conventional liquid isotropic mixtures toward solidified, stimuli responsive, mucus penetrating and biologics compatible platforms. This review synthesizes recent literature on the composition, mechanism, classification and evaluation of self-emulsifying nanoparticles, with an emphasis on advances reported over the past five years, including Quality by Design (QbD) and in- silico guided formulation, solidification technologies such as hot melt extrusion and twin screw melt granulation, hydrophobic ion pairing and reverse micelle strategies for oral peptide and protein delivery, permeability modulating approaches for Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class III drugs, and applications in oncology, ocular delivery and functional foods.