Factors affecting response variables with emphasis on drug release and loading for optimization of liposomes.

ABSTRACT

Drug delivery through Liposomes has shown tremendous potential in terms of the therapeutic application of nanoparticles. There are several drug-loaded liposomal formulations approved for clinical use that help mitigate harmful effects of life-threatening diseases. Developments in the field of liposomal formulations and drug delivery have made it possible for clinicians and researchers to find therapeutic solutions for complicated medical conditions. A key aspect in the development of drug-loaded liposomes is a careful review of optimization techniques to improve the overall formulation stability and efficacy. Optimization studies help in improving/modulating the various properties of drug-loaded liposomes and are vital for the development of this class of delivery systems. A comprehensive overview of the various process variables and factors involved in the optimization of drug-loaded liposomes is presented in this review. The influence of different independent variables on drug release and loading properties with the application of a statistical experimental design is also explained in this article.

Periodically, liposomes have shown tremendous potential as drug carriers as they are multifunctional nanoparticles with a unique ability to deliver drugs and other therapeutic moieties to target sites in the body. The use of statistical experimental designs and optimization models to develop drug-loaded liposomes is considered the most effective step in formulation development. A careful consideration of various factors and variables in optimizing liposome formulations has been specifically described in this review article. Thorough understanding of different factors that affect drug loading and release in liposomes provides deeper insights in achieving a stable, efficacious drug formulation. There are several new aspects and concepts which need to be explored as part of formulation development and optimization of drug-loaded liposomes and this article hopes to shed light on some important aspects in this scientific journey.