What is a liposome?

The name liposome is derived from two Greek words: ‘Lipos’ meaning lipid, fat and ‘Soma’ meaning body. It was discovered for the first time in history in 1961 by Dr. Alec D Bangham and published in 1964.

They are phospholipid-containing, cell structure-like, amphiphilic carrier systems between 30 nm and 1000 nm with hydrophilic and lipophilic parts.

Since the 1970s, they have been studied as drug delivery systems due to their many potential advantages. In 1995, liposomal technology was applied for the first time in cancer treatment with the FDA approved drug Doxil®.

Liposomal biotechnology is a technology that enables the effective distribution of the active substance in the body by creating structures very similar to cells. These structures are called liposome globules. Liposome globules are formed by surrounding the active substance with a double layer of phospholipids.

Phospholipids are the main components of cell membranes in our body. So liposomal globules mimic natural cell membranes. This phospholipid layer outside the active substance prevents degradation of the active substance due to enzymes in the body or changes in pH levels. Liposomal biotechnology thus contributes to improving and prolonging the effect.

With liposomal biotechnology;

• Absorption of the active substance, thus increasing its effectiveness.
• Stability increases thanks to the phospholipid layer.
• Prevents the formation of side effects.
• Enables active targeting.