Liposomes: from membrane models to gene therapy

Abstract

Liposomes, which are self-closed vesicular structures composed of (phospho)lipid bilayers, have attracted considerable interest since their discovery in the 60's. Because of their organization and the versatility of their physicochemical properties these vesicles have been extensively studied as models for biological membranes. Since liposomes can sequester bioactive molecules, they are also widely used as drug delivej systems. The present report focuses on the renewed interest in the field with the advent of "sterically stabilized" (Stealth@) liposomes which, compared to "conventional" liposomes, have much longer circulation times in vivo, and on the use of cationic liposomes in non-viral gene delivery strategies. Liposomes are also very promising antigen carriers that can be used to design peptide-based synthetic vaccines.

Promotion of the Stability of Lycopene by Liposomal formulations for Anti-aging Therapy

“…In our study, lycopene liposomes are prepared using lecithin (3%), cholesterol (0.3%), and water phase of 74.5%. In the formulation, lycopene can be incorporated into the lipid bilayer of the liposome [7,8]. Incorporation of lycopene into liposomes not only reduced lipid damage but also slowed the oxidation of lycopene [9].…”

Knowledge‐making distinctions in synthetic biology

“…Protocell constructs can also be viewed as expansions of the experimental use of vesicles and other compartments in more traditional research that sought simply to create membrane models or deliver biomolecules to cells. (77) Overall, however, the third school's less explicit focus on the creation of novel function in favour of developing a deeper understanding of the distinctively biological properties of matter aligns their style of simplification much more closely with traditional analytical scientific approaches.…”

Evaluation of liposomal carnosine in adjuvant arthritis

“…Our previous study showed a protective effect of carnosine against oxidative damage and also its systemic anti-inflammatory effects (Ponist et al 2016). Liposomes are nanosized artificial vesicles of spherical shape that can be produced from natural or synthetic phospholipids (Schuber et al 1998). Encapsulation of antioxidants in liposomes has been shown to improve their therapeutic potential against oxidant-induced tissue injuries, as liposomes evidently facilitate intracellular delivery and extend the retention time of incorporated agents inside the cell.…”