Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Modulating Shape of Polyester Based Polymersomes using Osmotic Pressure
Published on: April 21, 2021
Physical stimuli-responsive liposomes and polymersomes as drug delivery vehicles based on phase transitions in the
Yangwei Deng1, Jun Ling, Min-Hui Li
1Chimie ParisTech, PSL University Paris, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, UMR8247, 11 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris, France. min-hui.li@chimieparistech.psl.eu.
Abstract:
This paper reviews liposomes with crystalline phase and polymersomes exhibiting crystalline and thermotropic liquid crystalline phases in the membrane. Intriguing morphologies of vesicles are described, including spherical, ellipsoidal and faceted vesicles, produced by a large variety of amphiphilic molecules and polymers with nematic phase, smectic phase or crystalline phase. It is highlighted how the phase transitions and the phase grain boundaries could be used ingeniously to destabilize the vesicular structure and to achieve cargo-release under the action of external stimulation. These liposomes and polymersomes are responsive to physical stimuli, such as temperature variation, shear stress, light illumination, and magnetic and electric fields. These stimuli-responsive properties make them promising candidates as new smart drug delivery systems.
Related Concept Videos
Phase Transitions
Phase Transitions: Sublimation and Deposition
Phase Transitions: Melting and Freezing
Phase Transitions: Vaporization and Condensation
Drug Delivery: Overview
Enteral delivery involves administering drugs directly through swallowing, sublingual placement, or buccal application. Orally administered drugs predominantly navigate the...
Phase Diagrams

