Anticancer drugs in liposomal nanodevices: a target delivery for a targeted therapy

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology in Medicine
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Oncology

Background:

• Improving the therapeutic index of anticancer drugs remains a significant challenge in cancer treatment.
• Nanocarriers, particularly liposomes, have been extensively studied to modify drug pharmacokinetics and biodistribution.
• Liposomes offer high biocompatibility, enhancing the pharmacological profiles of poorly soluble or unstable anticancer agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of liposome research over the past 40 years.
• To highlight the evolution of liposomal formulations, including those in clinical trials and on the market.
• To emphasize the role of advanced liposomes, especially those with active targeting capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature and research on liposomes in cancer therapy.
• Analysis of liposome properties, focusing on biocompatibility and drug delivery enhancement.
• Examination of commercially available and clinically investigated liposomal formulations.

Main Results:

• Liposomes have demonstrated significant potential in overcoming limitations of conventional anticancer drugs.
• Recent liposomal generations exhibit enhanced active targeting characteristics for cancer treatment.
• Liposomal formulations show encouraging results for targeted therapy and improved drug delivery.

Conclusions:

• Liposomes play a crucial role in advancing nanomedicine for cancer treatment and diagnosis.
• The development of targeted liposomal systems represents a promising strategy for enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
• Nanotechnology, particularly through liposomes, is expected to have a remarkable impact on future cancer therapies.