Recent advances in surface-modified liposomes with polysaccharides for bioactive delivery

Liposomes have been widely employed as delivery systems, whereas they suffer from some drawbacks such as low encapsulation efficiency, poor stability during storage and under gastrointestinal tract, and lack of controlled release. To solve these issues, the surface chemistry of liposome technology started by modifying the liposomal surface with different ligands. This review article summarizes the emerging trends in surface-modified liposomes with polysaccharides for delivery of bioactive compounds. The polysaccharides that have been used for liposome surface modification include chitosan and its derivatives, pectin, hyaluronic acid, cellulose, and polysaccharide gums. The strategies of polysaccharide modification, stabilizing mechanisms, advantages and limitations of each of the polysaccharide, and food application are discussed. The combinations of polysaccharides for the production of double-layered liposomes are also highlighted.