Liposomes are artificially prepared microscopic vesicles, primarily composed of lipid molecules, that closely resemble the structure of natural cell membranes. They are spherical in shape and consist of one or more lipid bilayers, with an aqueous core enclosed within the lipid layers. Liposomes are commonly used in the field of drug delivery and biotechnology.
The lipid bilayers of liposomes are constructed with phospholipids, which arrange themselves into a double-layered structure due to their hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repellent) tails. This unique structure allows liposomes to encapsulate hydrophilic and lipophilic (fat-attracting) substances, such as drugs, DNA, or proteins, within their aqueous core or bi-layered membrane.
Liposomes are versatile carriers due to their ability to protect encapsulated substances from degradation, improve their stability, and alter their release profiles. This makes them valuable tools for targeted drug delivery in various medical applications, including cancer treatment, gene therapy, and vaccine development. Liposomes can be modified with different coatings or functionalized by attaching specific ligands to their surface, enabling them to target specific cells or tissues.
Furthermore, liposomes have found applications in cosmetic and skincare products due to their ability to improve the absorption and efficacy of active ingredients. They can penetrate the skin barrier and deliver components such as vitamins, antioxidants, or moisturizers into the deeper layers of the skin.
In summary, liposomes are microscopic vesicles composed of lipid bilayers, enabling them to encapsulate various substances and improve their delivery, stability, and targeting in medical, biotechnological, and cosmetic applications.
