Nanoparticle-lipid interactions and their roles in nano-bio interface dynamics

Nanoparticles (NPs) may enter the human body through both unintentional routes, such as inhalation or ingestion, and intentional diagnostic or therapeutic applications, where they rapidly interact with surrounding biomolecules and form a dynamic corona that defines their biological identity. Despite significant attention to protein coronas, the function of lipids and lipid-associated molecules at the nano-bio interface has not been thoroughly explored. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the interactions between NPs and lipids, focusing on their role in the formation of lipid coronas while highlighting the mechanisms and biological implications of these interactions. The key lipid components in biological systems, as well as NP physicochemical properties modulating lipid adsorption, alongside the surrounding medium, are examined. The competitive interplay between lipids, proteins, and apolipoproteins shaping the composition of the corona is reviewed. Characterisation methods of lipid biocorona are investigated, and the biological consequences of lipid corona formation are highlighted. Overall, this review emphasises the significance of integrating lipid corona-focused perspectives into research on nano-bio interactions to enhance the design and functionality of nanomaterials for biomedical applications.