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This report is written by MaltSci based on the latest literature and research findings

How do lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs? ​

Abstract ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have gained prominence in the biomedical field as advanced drug delivery systems, particularly in the context of vaccines and gene therapy. Their ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic therapeutic agents, coupled with their biocompatibility and biodegradability, positions them as a revolutionary platform in modern medicine. This review explores the mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles facilitate drug delivery, focusing on their composition, formation processes, and the various factors influencing their efficacy. LNPs enhance drug solubilization and absorption through mechanisms such as selective lymphatic uptake, which bypasses first-pass metabolism, thus increasing bioavailability. Additionally, LNPs can be engineered for targeted delivery, enhancing therapeutic effects while minimizing off-target effects, particularly in oncology. Despite their advantages, challenges remain, including production scalability, regulatory hurdles, and the need for tailored formulations. Recent advancements in LNP technology underscore their potential in personalized medicine, with ongoing research aimed at optimizing their design and function. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of lipid nanoparticle technology and its future directions in drug delivery, highlighting the insights gained for improving therapeutic outcomes and patient safety.

Outline ​

This report will discuss the following questions.

  • 1 Introduction
  • 2 Mechanisms of Drug Delivery by Lipid Nanoparticles
    • 2.1 Composition and Structure of Lipid Nanoparticles
    • 2.2 Drug Encapsulation Techniques
  • 3 Advantages of Lipid Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery
    • 3.1 Enhanced Bioavailability
    • 3.2 Targeted Delivery Mechanisms
  • 4 Challenges in Lipid Nanoparticle Development
    • 4.1 Production and Scalability Issues
    • 4.2 Regulatory Considerations
  • 5 Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
    • 5.1 Innovations in Formulation Strategies
    • 5.2 Potential for Personalized Medicine
  • 6 Conclusion

1 Introduction ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have garnered significant attention in the biomedical field as innovative drug delivery systems, particularly in the context of vaccines and gene therapy. Their unique ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic therapeutic agents, coupled with their biocompatibility and biodegradability, positions them as a revolutionary platform in modern medicine. The evolution of LNPs has been spurred by the urgent need for effective delivery mechanisms that can overcome the challenges posed by conventional drug delivery systems, which often fall short in terms of bioavailability, targeted delivery, and patient safety. As such, LNPs represent a promising alternative that addresses these critical issues while enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

The significance of LNPs lies in their multifaceted applications across various therapeutic domains, including oncology, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders. Recent advancements in LNP technology have demonstrated their potential to improve the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of drugs, thereby minimizing adverse effects and enhancing treatment outcomes [1][2]. The ability of LNPs to facilitate the targeted delivery of nucleic acids, such as mRNA and siRNA, has been particularly transformative, leading to successful clinical applications that underscore their potential in personalized medicine [3]. Furthermore, the recent approval of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 has spotlighted LNPs as critical components in vaccine delivery systems, emphasizing their role in addressing public health challenges [4].

Despite the promising capabilities of LNPs, several challenges remain that hinder their widespread adoption. Issues related to scalability in production, regulatory hurdles, and the need for tailored formulations to meet individual patient needs are significant barriers that must be addressed [5]. Moreover, the intricate nature of the interactions between LNPs and biological systems necessitates a deeper understanding of their mechanisms of action to optimize their therapeutic potential [6][7].

This review aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles facilitate drug delivery, exploring their composition, formation processes, and the various factors that influence their efficacy. The content is organized as follows: Section 2 will discuss the mechanisms of drug delivery by lipid nanoparticles, focusing on their composition and structure, as well as the techniques used for drug encapsulation. Section 3 will highlight the advantages of LNPs in drug delivery, including enhanced bioavailability and targeted delivery mechanisms. Section 4 will address the current challenges in the development of LNPs, such as production scalability and regulatory considerations. In Section 5, we will examine recent advances and future perspectives in LNP technology, emphasizing innovations in formulation strategies and the potential for personalized medicine. Finally, Section 6 will summarize the key findings and implications of this review.

By synthesizing recent advancements and ongoing research, this report will provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of lipid nanoparticle technology and its future directions in drug delivery. The insights gained from this review will contribute to a better understanding of how LNPs can be harnessed to improve therapeutic outcomes and patient safety in various medical applications.

2 Mechanisms of Drug Delivery by Lipid Nanoparticles ​

2.1 Composition and Structure of Lipid Nanoparticles ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) serve as advanced drug delivery systems that enhance the bioavailability of therapeutic agents, particularly those with poor solubility and permeability. The mechanisms of drug delivery by lipid nanoparticles are multifaceted, primarily influenced by their composition and structure, which dictate their interaction with biological systems.

Lipid nanoparticles, including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), are composed of lipids that provide a biocompatible and biodegradable matrix for drug encapsulation. These lipid-based carriers are capable of encapsulating both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs, allowing for versatile applications across various routes of administration, including oral, parenteral, and topical routes [8].

The delivery mechanism of lipid nanoparticles is primarily facilitated through their unique properties that enhance drug solubilization and absorption. The lipid matrix allows for the formation of micellar solutions that enhance the dissolution of poorly soluble drugs. Additionally, lipid nanoparticles can promote lymphatic uptake, bypassing first-pass metabolism and thereby increasing the bioavailability of the encapsulated drugs [6].

Once administered, lipid nanoparticles interact with biological membranes via various mechanisms. They can enhance gastrointestinal absorption through selective lymphatic pathways, which is particularly advantageous for drugs that are poorly absorbed via conventional routes [6]. The size and surface properties of lipid nanoparticles play a crucial role in their distribution and uptake by target cells. Smaller particles tend to exhibit better tissue penetration and cellular uptake, which is critical for effective drug delivery [2].

The internalization of lipid nanoparticles into cells often occurs via endocytosis, a process where the cell membrane engulfs the nanoparticles, allowing for the release of the drug payload inside the cytoplasm [9]. However, to achieve therapeutic efficacy, it is vital that the drug is released from the nanoparticles after internalization. This is where the design of lipid nanoparticles becomes critical; modifications to their structure can enhance drug release profiles and improve the overall delivery efficiency [5].

Furthermore, lipid nanoparticles can be engineered to achieve targeted delivery. By functionalizing their surface with ligands or antibodies, it is possible to direct the nanoparticles to specific cell types, thereby increasing the therapeutic effect while minimizing off-target effects [10]. This targeting capability is particularly beneficial in cancer therapy, where lipid nanoparticles can be designed to selectively deliver chemotherapeutic agents to tumor cells [10].

In summary, lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs through a combination of enhanced solubilization, lymphatic uptake, and targeted delivery facilitated by their unique composition and structure. Their ability to encapsulate a wide range of therapeutic agents, coupled with their biocompatibility and potential for targeted delivery, positions lipid nanoparticles as a promising platform for drug delivery in various medical applications [2][7].

2.2 Drug Encapsulation Techniques ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as versatile and effective drug delivery systems, particularly for poorly soluble drugs and biopharmaceuticals. The mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs involve various processes, including drug encapsulation techniques, transport mechanisms, and interactions with biological systems.

Lipid nanoparticles, such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), utilize lipid matrices to encapsulate both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs. The encapsulation techniques can vary, but commonly employed methods include hot and cold homogenization, micro-emulsion, and solvent evaporation techniques. These methods allow for the formation of nanoparticles with a high loading capacity and controlled release profiles, which are crucial for enhancing the bioavailability of drugs that exhibit poor intestinal permeability and solubility [6][8].

Once the drugs are encapsulated within the lipid matrix, the nanoparticles facilitate drug delivery through several mechanisms. The unique properties of lipid nanoparticles enable them to enhance gastrointestinal absorption by utilizing selective lymphatic pathways, which can bypass first-pass metabolism. This is particularly advantageous for biopharmaceutics classified as BCS class II and IV, where lipid nanoparticles can significantly improve the oral bioavailability of such drugs [6].

The transport kinetics of lipid nanoparticles involve their interaction with biological membranes. Upon administration, lipid nanoparticles can undergo endocytosis, allowing for cellular uptake of the drug. However, recent studies suggest that certain lipid-coated nanoparticles can also deliver their cargo directly to the target cell plasma membrane without complete internalization, leveraging lipid mixing and lipid raft-dependent processes for efficient drug release [9].

Furthermore, lipid nanoparticles can be designed to improve tissue selectivity and target specific organs or cells. This is achieved through modifications in the lipid composition and the incorporation of targeting ligands that enhance the affinity of the nanoparticles for specific receptors on target cells [2]. Such targeting strategies not only improve the therapeutic efficacy but also reduce systemic toxicity, making lipid nanoparticles a promising approach for targeted drug delivery [10].

The biocompatibility and biodegradability of lipid nanoparticles contribute to their safety profile, making them suitable for various routes of administration, including oral, parenteral, and ocular applications [4][11]. In the context of ocular drug delivery, lipid nanoparticles can enhance corneal absorption and improve bioavailability while minimizing side effects associated with traditional delivery systems [12].

In summary, lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs through sophisticated mechanisms that involve effective encapsulation techniques, enhanced absorption via lymphatic pathways, targeted delivery to specific tissues, and interactions with cellular membranes. These characteristics position lipid nanoparticles as a revolutionary platform for drug delivery, particularly for challenging biopharmaceuticals and poorly soluble drugs [2][4][6].

3 Advantages of Lipid Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery ​

3.1 Enhanced Bioavailability ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) serve as a revolutionary platform for drug delivery, primarily due to their ability to enhance the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. The mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles facilitate drug delivery and their associated advantages are multifaceted and are crucial in overcoming the challenges faced by conventional drug delivery systems.

Lipid nanoparticles can encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs, making them versatile carriers. They include formulations such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). These systems enhance the gastrointestinal absorption and solubilization of minimally bioavailable drugs through a selective lymphatic pathway, thereby improving their bioavailability. The unique properties of lipids, including biodegradability and biocompatibility, play a significant role in this enhancement [6].

One of the primary advantages of lipid nanoparticles is their ability to improve the oral bioavailability of drugs that have poor intestinal permeability. This is achieved through several mechanisms: they facilitate dissolution in the gastrointestinal tract, enhance lymphatic uptake, and can inhibit efflux transporters that would otherwise reduce drug absorption. Additionally, lipid nanoparticles provide a controlled release of the encapsulated drugs, which helps maintain therapeutic levels over extended periods [8].

Lipid nanoparticles also address the stability issues commonly associated with other delivery systems. They are easy to manufacture, scalable for large-scale production, and composed of non-toxic lipid excipients, which further supports their application in clinical settings [7]. The capacity of LNPs to encapsulate a variety of therapeutic agents, including proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids, further underscores their versatility in drug delivery [4].

Furthermore, lipid nanoparticles are particularly effective in targeting specific tissues or cells, which is vital for minimizing side effects and maximizing therapeutic efficacy. This targeting capability can be enhanced through surface modifications, such as the attachment of ligands that facilitate selective uptake by diseased cells [10].

In summary, lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs through a combination of improved solubility, enhanced absorption mechanisms, controlled release profiles, and targeted delivery capabilities. These advantages contribute to significantly enhanced bioavailability, making lipid nanoparticles a promising avenue for the development of advanced drug delivery systems. Their role in modern medicine is expanding, particularly in the delivery of biopharmaceuticals and therapies that require precision and efficiency [1][2].

3.2 Targeted Delivery Mechanisms ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a revolutionary platform for drug delivery, providing significant advantages in the administration of various therapeutic agents. Their unique properties facilitate the effective delivery of drugs, particularly those with poor bioavailability, through multiple mechanisms.

One of the primary advantages of lipid nanoparticles is their ability to encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs, which enhances their versatility as drug delivery systems. This encapsulation is achieved through lipid-based carrier systems, such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), which effectively solubilize and protect drugs from degradation during transit in the body[6][8]. The lipid matrix not only stabilizes the drug but also enhances its solubility, thereby improving its bioavailability when administered orally or through other routes[7].

Lipid nanoparticles utilize various mechanisms for targeted drug delivery. One significant mechanism involves enhancing the gastrointestinal absorption of drugs via selective lymphatic pathways. This is particularly beneficial for drugs that are poorly absorbed through conventional routes, as LNPs can facilitate their transport directly into the lymphatic system, bypassing first-pass metabolism and improving systemic availability[13]. The size and surface characteristics of LNPs are crucial factors influencing their uptake and distribution in the lymphatic system, as smaller particles tend to navigate more effectively through biological barriers[2].

Additionally, lipid nanoparticles can be engineered for enhanced tissue selectivity and targeting. Recent advances in LNP technology have led to the development of ligand-functionalized nanoparticles that can specifically target receptors in desired organs, thus allowing for more precise delivery of therapeutic agents. This targeting capability not only increases the concentration of the drug at the site of action but also minimizes systemic side effects, enhancing the overall therapeutic efficacy[1].

Moreover, lipid nanoparticles have shown promising results in delivering nucleic acid therapeutics, such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA). The ability of LNPs to encapsulate these fragile molecules and protect them from enzymatic degradation is critical for their successful delivery to target cells[3]. By utilizing lipid nanoparticles, researchers have achieved significant advancements in gene therapy, enabling targeted gene silencing and expression modulation[14].

In summary, lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs through their unique ability to encapsulate a wide range of therapeutic agents, enhance bioavailability, and facilitate targeted delivery via engineered mechanisms. Their versatility and effectiveness make them a crucial component in the development of advanced drug delivery systems, paving the way for improved therapeutic outcomes across various medical applications.

4 Challenges in Lipid Nanoparticle Development ​

4.1 Production and Scalability Issues ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), serve as versatile drug delivery systems, primarily designed to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of therapeutic agents. The mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs are multifaceted, leveraging their unique structural properties to facilitate drug encapsulation, targeted delivery, and controlled release.

Lipid nanoparticles enhance drug delivery through several mechanisms. Firstly, they can effectively encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs, thereby improving the solubility and stability of poorly water-soluble compounds. This encapsulation occurs due to the lipid matrix's ability to form stable structures that protect the drug from degradation and enhance its absorption. The lipid composition can also facilitate the gastrointestinal absorption of minimally bioavailable drugs via selective lymphatic pathways, which bypasses the first-pass metabolism, significantly improving bioavailability for certain drug classes, particularly those classified as BCS class II and IV drugs [6].

Moreover, LNPs can be engineered for specific targeting, employing ligand-functionalized surfaces that bind to receptors on target cells or tissues. This targeting capability allows for direct and efficient drug delivery, reducing systemic side effects and enhancing therapeutic outcomes [2]. Additionally, the lipid matrix can be modified to control the release rate of the encapsulated drug, providing sustained therapeutic effects over time [15].

Despite their promising applications, the development and manufacturing of lipid nanoparticles face several challenges. One significant issue is the scalability of production methods. While laboratory-scale synthesis of lipid nanoparticles is relatively straightforward, translating these processes to industrial-scale production involves complex multi-batch processes that can lead to variability in product quality. This variability can affect the stability, sterility, and overall performance of the lipid nanoparticles [15].

Furthermore, regulatory compliance presents another hurdle. The production of lipid-based formulations must adhere to stringent regulatory guidelines to ensure safety and efficacy, which can complicate the development process [15]. Embracing quality-by-design (QbD) principles and utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques, such as continuous production processes and process analytical technologies (PAT), are essential to address these challenges and enhance the scalability of lipid nanoparticle production [15].

In conclusion, lipid nanoparticles are a promising platform for drug delivery, offering enhanced bioavailability and targeted delivery through various mechanisms. However, the challenges associated with their production and scalability necessitate ongoing research and development efforts to optimize manufacturing processes and ensure regulatory compliance, paving the way for their successful clinical application.

4.2 Regulatory Considerations ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) serve as innovative drug delivery systems that effectively transport a variety of therapeutic agents, particularly for poorly soluble drugs. The mechanisms through which LNPs deliver drugs involve several critical processes, including encapsulation, release, and cellular uptake.

LNPs, including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), are designed to encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs. This encapsulation enhances the bioavailability of biopharmaceutics, especially those classified as BCS class II and IV drugs, which are often poorly absorbed and subject to degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. By improving solubilization and facilitating selective lymphatic uptake, LNPs significantly increase the gastrointestinal absorption of these drugs [6].

The delivery mechanism of LNPs involves several stages: after administration, they navigate through physiological barriers to reach target tissues. Their unique lipid composition allows for biodegradability and biocompatibility, which are crucial for enhancing drug transport and efficacy. Additionally, LNPs can employ various targeting strategies, such as ligand-functionalization, to improve tissue selectivity and reduce immune system activation, thus enhancing the therapeutic outcome [1].

However, the development of LNPs faces numerous challenges. These include issues related to drug leakage, poor solubility, and inadequate target specificity. Moreover, achieving a balance between drug loading capacity and stability is critical, as the structural integrity of LNPs can be compromised during storage or upon administration [2]. There are also concerns regarding the scalability of LNP production, which must be addressed to ensure consistent quality and efficacy in clinical applications [7].

Regulatory considerations play a significant role in the development and application of LNPs. As these systems are employed in delivering novel therapeutics, particularly nucleic acids such as mRNA and siRNA, they must comply with stringent regulatory guidelines. These include demonstrating safety, efficacy, and quality through rigorous preclinical and clinical testing. The regulatory landscape is continuously evolving, particularly in light of recent advancements in LNP technologies, which have been accelerated by the urgent need for effective vaccines and therapeutics during health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic [4].

In summary, lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs through advanced encapsulation and targeted delivery mechanisms while facing challenges in stability, specificity, and regulatory compliance. Ongoing research aims to optimize their design and function to improve drug delivery outcomes in various therapeutic contexts.

5 Recent Advances and Future Perspectives ​

5.1 Innovations in Formulation Strategies ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a pivotal platform for drug delivery, especially for therapeutic agents that are poorly soluble or have low bioavailability. Their unique structural properties, combined with innovative formulation strategies, enhance the efficacy and precision of drug delivery systems.

LNPs can encapsulate a wide range of therapeutic agents, including hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs, proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. This versatility is primarily attributed to their composition, which typically involves a solid lipid core and surfactants that stabilize the particles in an aqueous environment. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are the most commonly studied forms of lipid nanoparticles. These systems are particularly effective for delivering drugs that belong to Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) classes II and IV, which are characterized by poor solubility and permeability[6][8].

One of the key mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles enhance drug delivery is through their ability to improve the solubilization and absorption of poorly bioavailable drugs. The lipid matrix facilitates the formation of micellar solutions, enhancing the dissolution rate of the encapsulated drugs. Additionally, LNPs can exploit the lymphatic transport pathways, which allows for selective delivery to lymphatic tissues, thereby bypassing first-pass metabolism and enhancing systemic bioavailability[13].

Recent advancements in the formulation of lipid nanoparticles have focused on optimizing their structural and componential design to regulate their behavior in vivo. Strategies such as surface modification with targeting ligands, adjusting particle size, and incorporating biodegradable materials have been explored to enhance the targeting specificity and therapeutic efficacy of LNPs. For instance, antibody-conjugated lipid nanoparticles have shown significant potential in targeting specific receptors on diseased cells, thereby improving the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents while minimizing systemic toxicity[10].

Moreover, innovations in manufacturing techniques, such as microfluidic processes, have facilitated the efficient encapsulation of nucleic acids and proteins within lipid nanoparticles. This is particularly relevant for the delivery of RNA-based therapeutics, such as mRNA vaccines, which have gained prominence in recent years. The design of lipid nanoparticles has evolved to include ionizable lipids that enhance endosomal escape, a critical step for effective nucleic acid delivery[3].

Future perspectives on lipid nanoparticles in drug delivery systems highlight the need for further research into their long-term stability, biocompatibility, and scalability for commercial production. Ongoing studies aim to address the challenges of targeted delivery and controlled release profiles, which are crucial for maximizing therapeutic outcomes[2][4].

In summary, lipid nanoparticles represent a sophisticated and adaptable approach to drug delivery, leveraging their unique properties to overcome various physiological barriers and enhance the bioavailability of therapeutic agents. The continued innovation in formulation strategies promises to further revolutionize their application in clinical settings, paving the way for more effective and targeted therapies.

5.2 Potential for Personalized Medicine ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a highly effective platform for drug delivery, offering numerous advantages that facilitate the transport of therapeutic agents to specific sites within the body. The mechanisms by which lipid nanoparticles deliver drugs are multifaceted, incorporating both their unique structural properties and innovative engineering approaches.

Lipid nanoparticles, including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), are composed of lipid matrices that encapsulate drugs, enhancing their bioavailability and stability. These nanoparticles can effectively carry both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs, making them versatile carriers for a range of therapeutic applications[7][8]. The encapsulation process not only protects the drugs from degradation but also facilitates their controlled release, which is crucial for maintaining therapeutic concentrations over extended periods[6].

One of the key advantages of lipid nanoparticles is their ability to enhance oral bioavailability, particularly for poorly soluble drugs. They achieve this by improving the dissolution of drugs in the gastrointestinal tract and promoting lymphatic uptake, thereby bypassing first-pass metabolism[6][7]. This is particularly significant for biopharmaceuticals and drugs classified as BCS class II and IV, which typically exhibit low permeability and solubility[6].

Moreover, the design of lipid nanoparticles can be tailored to improve their targeting capabilities. Recent advancements include the development of ligand-functionalized lipid nanoparticles that can specifically bind to receptors on target cells or tissues. This targeted approach not only enhances drug delivery efficiency but also minimizes off-target effects, which is particularly beneficial in the context of personalized medicine[2]. The ability to modify the surface characteristics of lipid nanoparticles allows for the fine-tuning of their interactions with biological systems, further enhancing their therapeutic potential[4].

In addition to their application in systemic drug delivery, lipid nanoparticles are also being explored for localized therapies, including ocular drug delivery. Their biocompatibility and ability to sustain drug release make them suitable for overcoming the barriers associated with ocular administration, thus improving drug bioavailability in the eye[12][16]. This is particularly important given the complex anatomy and physiology of the eye, which presents significant challenges for conventional drug delivery systems.

Looking towards the future, the potential for lipid nanoparticles in personalized medicine is substantial. Their ability to encapsulate a variety of therapeutic agents, including nucleic acids like mRNA and siRNA, positions them as key players in the development of targeted therapies[1]. The ongoing research into optimizing their design and functionalization is expected to yield new formulations that can be tailored to the individual patient's needs, enhancing treatment efficacy and reducing adverse effects.

In summary, lipid nanoparticles represent a promising drug delivery system that combines biocompatibility, versatility, and targeted delivery capabilities. Their role in enhancing the bioavailability of therapeutic agents, coupled with advancements in engineering and functionalization, paves the way for their application in personalized medicine, potentially transforming the landscape of therapeutic interventions.

6 Conclusion ​

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a transformative platform in drug delivery, particularly for addressing the challenges posed by poorly soluble and biopharmaceutical agents. The primary findings of this review highlight the multifaceted mechanisms by which LNPs enhance drug bioavailability, including improved solubilization, lymphatic uptake, and targeted delivery capabilities. The innovative engineering of LNPs, such as surface modifications and tailored formulations, allows for effective encapsulation and controlled release of therapeutic agents, making them particularly valuable in personalized medicine. Despite their advantages, significant challenges remain in terms of production scalability, regulatory compliance, and the need for deeper understanding of their interactions with biological systems. Future research should focus on optimizing manufacturing processes, exploring new formulation strategies, and investigating the long-term stability and safety profiles of LNPs. By addressing these challenges, lipid nanoparticles can fulfill their potential in revolutionizing drug delivery systems and improving therapeutic outcomes across various medical applications.

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