Title:Advances in Tumor Targeted Liposomes
VOLUME: 18 ISSUE: 1
Author(s):A. Jain and S.K. Jain*
Affiliation:Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, NH-2, Mathura-Delhi Road, Mathura (U.P.) 281 406, Pharmaceutics Research Projects Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Central University, Sagar (M.P.) - 470003
Keywords:Cancer, chemotherapy, active targeting, ligand, anticancer agents, EPR effect, PEGylation.
Abstract:Cancer remains a deadly disease for effective treatment. Although anomalous
tumor microenvironment is now widely exploited for targeted chemotherapy, safe and
efficacious drug delivery to tumor cells is not still warranted. Liposomes are promising
biodegradable and biocompatible nanocarriers having potential amenability for surface
and internal modifications, and extraordinary capability to carry both hydrophilic as well
as hydrophobhic drugs. Meticulous fabrication of liposomes with tumor selective
ligand(s) and PEGylation reduces immunogenicity and increase target-specificity. This
review focuses on critical developmental aspects of liposomes to target cancer cells
exploiting Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) effect and tumor-selective
ligands such as folate, transferrin, peptides etc. Moreover, stimuli-responsive smart
liposomes (triggers: pH, temperature, enzymes, magnetic field, ultrasound, and redox
potential etc.) are also investigated for enhancement of drug delivery to tumors. This
review summarizes advances in tumor-targeted liposomes via various means of
targeting. This knowledgeable assemblage of advances in liposomal approaches will
render new insights to formulators and budding scientists to design cancer targeted
liposomes.
