Nanotechnology refers to the manipulation of substances on the atomic and molecular level. Liposomes are small encapsulating bubbles that are microscopic in size, made of materials called phospholipids that mimic human cells, and have the property of being both attracted and repelled by water. Liposomal formulation includes the process that forms those bubbles, as well the encapsulation and delivery of the drugs contained within.
First appearing during the 1960s, the importance of these tiny vesicular structures that enclose water-soluble molecules soon became apparent. Researchers and pharmacists became aware of their potential to deliver specific drugs used in the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. The process encourages more accurate targeting of unhealthy cells and avoids problems associated with other types of administration.
Unlike most other delivery systems, these formulations do not rely on modes of absorption typical to oral or direct IV administration. Conventional delivery can make it harder to manage the effects of specialized drugs, and one common result is the accumulation of toxic materials in other organs, often causing additional and undesired damage. When the medication is placed inside each bubble-like liposome, release can be more easily controlled.
Molecules of medication are suspended in water inside these cellular structures, and encased in membranes created both naturally or artificially. They can be designed in ways that make them ideal mechanisms for enveloping hydrophilic drugs, or molecular groups that are attracted to and become easily transported in water. When manufactured using current processes, they form two groups called multilammelar and unilammelar, both of which include subcategories.
Individual liposomes surround the drug molecules with a membrane, and then transfer those medications to other cells when activated. Molecules can be released into the body by fusing certain layers with other physical cells, effectively delivering a small amount of medication. Others strategies rely on chemical reactions that encourage diffusion on a molecular level. The net result is a steadier, more controlled release.
Not only can this process be more easily managed by physicians, but it leaves no residual toxins behind, and is compatible biologically with human cells. Comparatively recent developments in ultrasound technology use sound waves to activate these chemical invaders, increasing their strength in regions where it is most needed. Others are being administered via the respiratory system, where they are deposited in the lungs and slowly released.
It is still comparatively costly to manufacture these microscopic capsules. As practicality increases and research finds new uses and procedures, expenses will probably decrease, but still remain high. As is the case in most newer technologies, there are still many unresolved issues. Some forms of these artificial cells have had problems with wall or membrane leakage, while others have been degraded by oxidation and other natural processes.
Like some other medical innovations, liposomes are now being introduced into consumer products. They are currently promoted as a beneficial way to administer herbal, vitamin and mineral supplements, and some individuals have created their own unique formulations. Although commercial applications produce controversy regarding efficacy, the continued development of new processes provides the basis for more effective medical uses.
First appearing during the 1960s, the importance of these tiny vesicular structures that enclose water-soluble molecules soon became apparent. Researchers and pharmacists became aware of their potential to deliver specific drugs used in the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. The process encourages more accurate targeting of unhealthy cells and avoids problems associated with other types of administration.
Unlike most other delivery systems, these formulations do not rely on modes of absorption typical to oral or direct IV administration. Conventional delivery can make it harder to manage the effects of specialized drugs, and one common result is the accumulation of toxic materials in other organs, often causing additional and undesired damage. When the medication is placed inside each bubble-like liposome, release can be more easily controlled.
Molecules of medication are suspended in water inside these cellular structures, and encased in membranes created both naturally or artificially. They can be designed in ways that make them ideal mechanisms for enveloping hydrophilic drugs, or molecular groups that are attracted to and become easily transported in water. When manufactured using current processes, they form two groups called multilammelar and unilammelar, both of which include subcategories.
Individual liposomes surround the drug molecules with a membrane, and then transfer those medications to other cells when activated. Molecules can be released into the body by fusing certain layers with other physical cells, effectively delivering a small amount of medication. Others strategies rely on chemical reactions that encourage diffusion on a molecular level. The net result is a steadier, more controlled release.
Not only can this process be more easily managed by physicians, but it leaves no residual toxins behind, and is compatible biologically with human cells. Comparatively recent developments in ultrasound technology use sound waves to activate these chemical invaders, increasing their strength in regions where it is most needed. Others are being administered via the respiratory system, where they are deposited in the lungs and slowly released.
It is still comparatively costly to manufacture these microscopic capsules. As practicality increases and research finds new uses and procedures, expenses will probably decrease, but still remain high. As is the case in most newer technologies, there are still many unresolved issues. Some forms of these artificial cells have had problems with wall or membrane leakage, while others have been degraded by oxidation and other natural processes.
Like some other medical innovations, liposomes are now being introduced into consumer products. They are currently promoted as a beneficial way to administer herbal, vitamin and mineral supplements, and some individuals have created their own unique formulations. Although commercial applications produce controversy regarding efficacy, the continued development of new processes provides the basis for more effective medical uses.
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