Trigger release liposome systems: local and remote controlled delivery?

J Microencapsul. 2012;29(3):262-76. doi: 10.3109/02652048.2011.646330. Epub 2011 Dec 30.

Abstract

Target-specific delivery has become an integral area of research in order to increase bioavailability and reduce the toxic effects of drugs. As a drug-delivery option, trigger-release liposomes offer sophisticated targeting and greater control-release capabilities. These are broadly divided into two categories; those that utilise the local environment of the target site where there may be an upregulation in certain enzymes or a change in pH and those liposomes that are triggered by an external physical stimulus such as heat, ultrasound or light. These release mechanisms offer a greater degree of control over when and where the drug is released; furthermore, targeting of diseased tissue is enhanced by incorporation of target-specific components such as antibodies. This review aims to show the development of such trigger release liposome systems and the current research in this field.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical / methods
  • Drug Carriers
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Drug Design
  • Hot Temperature
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Hydrolysis
  • Light
  • Liposomes / chemistry*
  • Models, Chemical
  • Phospholipases A2 / chemistry
  • Prodrugs / chemistry
  • Temperature
  • Type C Phospholipases / administration & dosage*
  • Ultrasonics

Substances

  • Drug Carriers
  • Liposomes
  • Prodrugs
  • Phospholipases A2
  • Type C Phospholipases