Liposomes are nanoscale vesicles with a bilayer structure, enabling them to carry both water-soluble and fat-soluble substances. They are pivotal in drug delivery, reducing drug degradation and enhancing targeted therapy, especially in cancer treatment. Liposomes also play a significant role in cosmetics, improving the penetration of active ingredients into the skin, and are utilized in gene therapy for nucleic acid transfer.
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Phospholipids are essential constituents of cellular membranes and make up the primary component of liposomes
Hydrophilic Heads and Hydrophobic Tails
The amphiphilic nature of liposomes allows them to encapsulate both water-soluble and fat-soluble substances due to the orientation of their hydrophilic and hydrophobic components
Self-Assembly
Liposomes form through the self-assembly of phospholipids in an aqueous medium, resulting in a closed bilayer structure
Environmental conditions and preparation techniques can impact the stability and permeability of liposomes
Liposomes are widely used in drug delivery due to their ability to protect therapeutic agents, facilitate targeted delivery, and improve the therapeutic index of drugs
Liposomes are utilized in skincare and hair care products for their ability to effectively deliver active ingredients and enhance product performance
Liposomes are also being explored for use in gene therapy, vaccine delivery, and improving the oral bioavailability of drugs
The size of liposomes can range from nanometers to micrometers, affecting their biodistribution and cellular uptake
Types of Phospholipids and Cholesterol
The chemical composition of the liposomal membrane, including the types of phospholipids and the presence of cholesterol, influences their charge, fluidity, and stability
The physical and chemical characteristics of liposomes play a crucial role in their ability to fuse with cell membranes, circulate in the bloodstream, and target specific cells
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Liposome composition
Primarily phospholipids, key cellular membrane constituents.
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Liposome structure
Bilayer with hydrophilic heads outward, hydrophobic tails inward.
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Liposome synthesis
Can be naturally occurring or artificially created for research/therapy.
