Recent advances in biomedical applications of lyotropic liquid crystals

Lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs), formed through the self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules in polar solvents, offer thermodynamic stability and tunable mesophases (lamellar, hexagonal, and cubic), making them a versatile platform for biomedical applications. Their structural adaptability enables enhanced drug stability, improved bioavailability, and controlled release, which are advantageous for various therapeutic strategies. LLC-based systems have shown significant promise in drug delivery, long-acting therapies, anti-infective treatments, and wound healing. Their diverse formulation options, including gels, nanoparticles, and in situ forming precursors, support multiple routes of administration, such as oral, intravenous, dermal, ocular, and intranasal. This review summarizes recent advances in the design and functionalization of LLC systems, with a focus on their ability to overcome physiological barriers, enhance therapeutic efficacy, enable targeted delivery, and support prolonged treatment regimens. Challenges in clinical translation and future research directions are also discussed to facilitate the transition from bench to bedside.