Nanotechnology is a branch of science that manipulates materials on a molecular and atomic level. Liposomes are artificially created microscopic bubbles composed of materials similar to human cell membranes called phospholipids, portions of which are alternately repelled or attracted to water. Liposomal formulation is a process that creates these structures for a more effective use in the delivery of medications.
The significance of these very small vesicular forms that are able to enclose molecules soluble in water became apparent soon after being introduced during the 1960s. Pharmacists and research scientists became keenly aware of their potential to improve methods of drug delivery when fighting cancer and other serious illness. They encourage more accurate targeting of malicious cells while avoiding issues that plague other forms of administration.
The formulations avoid absorption problems and outcomes that are associated with direct IV or oral administration. Conventional systems of delivery can produce difficulty in accurately managing the consequences of harsh drug therapy, primarily because they concentrate toxicity in healthy organs, often producing a great deal of collateral damage. When the bubble-like liposomes containing medications are used, the release of those drugs is more readily controlled.
The molecules of a drug are suspended in water within the structure of the artificial cell, which is surrounded by a manufactured membrane. The formulating process of specifically designed liposomes transforms them into mechanisms ideal for transporting hydrophilic drugs, or those that are attracted to water and dissolve effectively. Current methods produce two primary forms called unilammelar and multilammelar, and subcategories include varying sizes.
The liposomes are made to surround the medications with membranes, and when activated release those molecules into other cells. This can be done by fusing the layers, causing them to interact with adjacent human cells, and releasing medication in the process. Other activation strategies include using specific chemical reactions to encourage molecular diffusion. The end result is a controlled, steady delivery.
This process is not only more effectively managed, but is also bio-compatible with human cells, and leaves no additional toxic residue. Some recently developed types of these capsules can be activated using ultrasound, which increases their efficacy in the locations where they are most needed. Others are dispensed via the respiratory system, and are directly deposited into the lungs and then slowly released, reducing overall toxicity.
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 other technologies developed for medicine, liposomes have a growing commercial use. They are being touted as superior methods of delivering vitamin, mineral, and herb formulations, and some individuals today even create their own supplements. While those uses are controversial in some aspects, the creation of new medication delivery and activation systems continues to provide new hope for more effective treatments.
The significance of these very small vesicular forms that are able to enclose molecules soluble in water became apparent soon after being introduced during the 1960s. Pharmacists and research scientists became keenly aware of their potential to improve methods of drug delivery when fighting cancer and other serious illness. They encourage more accurate targeting of malicious cells while avoiding issues that plague other forms of administration.
The formulations avoid absorption problems and outcomes that are associated with direct IV or oral administration. Conventional systems of delivery can produce difficulty in accurately managing the consequences of harsh drug therapy, primarily because they concentrate toxicity in healthy organs, often producing a great deal of collateral damage. When the bubble-like liposomes containing medications are used, the release of those drugs is more readily controlled.
The molecules of a drug are suspended in water within the structure of the artificial cell, which is surrounded by a manufactured membrane. The formulating process of specifically designed liposomes transforms them into mechanisms ideal for transporting hydrophilic drugs, or those that are attracted to water and dissolve effectively. Current methods produce two primary forms called unilammelar and multilammelar, and subcategories include varying sizes.
The liposomes are made to surround the medications with membranes, and when activated release those molecules into other cells. This can be done by fusing the layers, causing them to interact with adjacent human cells, and releasing medication in the process. Other activation strategies include using specific chemical reactions to encourage molecular diffusion. The end result is a controlled, steady delivery.
This process is not only more effectively managed, but is also bio-compatible with human cells, and leaves no additional toxic residue. Some recently developed types of these capsules can be activated using ultrasound, which increases their efficacy in the locations where they are most needed. Others are dispensed via the respiratory system, and are directly deposited into the lungs and then slowly released, reducing overall toxicity.
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 other technologies developed for medicine, liposomes have a growing commercial use. They are being touted as superior methods of delivering vitamin, mineral, and herb formulations, and some individuals today even create their own supplements. While those uses are controversial in some aspects, the creation of new medication delivery and activation systems continues to provide new hope for more effective treatments.
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