Lipid-Based Nanoparticles

Lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) are nano-sized particles composed of lipids, which are natural or synthetic molecules. It comprises of phospholipid bilayer in its structure. The unique properties of lipids such as biocompatibility and versatility, have spurred the development of various lipid based nano formulations. It has different types of lipid-based nanoparticles including liposomes, lipid nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles. This review focused on the preparation methods and applications of LNPs. The various production techniques, such as injection, sonication, microfluidization, homogenization, microemulsion, nanoprecipitation, and evaporation methods were discussed. Among the various nanomaterials, lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) have shown remarkable pharmacological performance and therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, these carriers can enhance the drug distribution, bioavailability, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading capacity, pharmacokinetic properties and thus, results in minimizing the adverse side effects. The LNPs as promising carriers for targeted drug delivery in gene therapy and cancer therapy.