Liposomes As A Drug Delivery System

Abstract

Liposomes, spherical vesicles composed of phospholipid bilayers, have emerged as a promising and versatile platform for drug delivery. Their unique structural composition allows encapsulation of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic therapeutic agents, making them ideal for a range of pharmaceutical applications. This review explores the structure, types, and surface modifications of liposomes, emphasizing their role in enhancing drug bioavailability, reducing systemic toxicity, and enabling targeted delivery.

The classification of liposomes into small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs), large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs), and multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) enables tailored formulations for specific therapeutic needs. Surface modifications, such as PEGylation and ligand attachment, enhance circulation time and targeting precision. Liposomes are instrumental in the treatment of cancer, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders, and have also proven valuable in gene therapy and vaccine delivery, including their use in mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines.

Beyond pharmaceuticals, liposomes are widely used in cosmetics, food, and agriculture due to their ability to protect and deliver sensitive ingredients. However, challenges such as stability, immunogenicity, and scalability limit their broader clinical application. Current research focuses on developing stable, immune-evasive, and cost-effective liposomal formulations.

This review also highlights the market-approved liposomal products and their composition, reflecting the clinical relevance and regulatory acceptance of liposome-based therapies. With ongoing innovations in nanotechnology and bioengineering, liposomes are expected to remain at the forefront of advanced drug delivery systems, supporting precision medicine and improving therapeutic outcomes across multiple domains.