Colloidosomes: an emerging vesicular system in drug delivery

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Colloidal and nanoparticulate carrier systems have revolutionized diagnosis, treatment, and disease management.
• Existing systems like liposomes and polymeric particles face challenges in stability and permeability, limiting widespread application.
• Specialized applications include gene delivery, brain and tumor targeting, and oral vaccine formulations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review colloidosomes as an emerging vesicular system for controlled delivery.
• To focus on the types, fabrication techniques, and stability of colloidosomes.
• To highlight colloidosomes' potential in drug, cosmetic, and food supplement delivery.

Main Methods:

• Self-assembly of colloidal particles at emulsion droplet interfaces forms colloidosomes.
• Colloidosomes are solid microcapsules with tunable size, permeability, and mechanical properties.
• They can encapsulate aqueous, aqueous gel, or oily cores.

Main Results:

• Colloidosomes demonstrate precise control over key characteristics like size and permeability.
• Their fabrication involves self-assembly, offering a versatile approach to microcapsule creation.
• They present a viable alternative to existing carrier systems with enhanced stability and permeability.

Conclusions:

• Colloidosomes represent a promising advancement in controlled delivery systems.
• Their tunable properties and fabrication methods offer solutions to limitations of current carriers.
• Further research into colloidosomes can expand their application in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals.