Optimization of Nanoliposome Formulations for Targeted Delivery of Hydrophobic Drugs

Abstract

Nanotechnology has revolutionized drug delivery, with nanoliposomes emerging as promising carriers for hydrophobic drugs. This study focuses on optimizing nanoliposome formulations for targeted delivery through a quality-by-design (QbD) approach. Various parameters, including lipid-to-drug ratio, PEGylation concentration, and sonication time, were evaluated to enhance efficiency and stability. PEGylated liposomes exhibited reduced particle size (92 ± 5 nm), low polydispersity index (0.18), and improved zeta potential (-35 ± 2 mV), ensuring stability and homogeneity. Encapsulation efficiencies of 95% for curcumin and 89% for doxorubicin were achieved at a 10:1 lipid-to-drug ratio. Drug release studies demonstrated sustained release profiles, with 80–85% of drugs released over 72 hours for PEGylated liposomes. Targeting efficiency was significantly improved with folic acid-functionalized liposomes, showing enhanced cancer cell uptake and up to 70% reduction in cell viability. Stability studies confirmed superior shelf-life with PEGylation. These findings highlight the potential of optimized nanoliposomes in improving drug delivery performance and addressing critical challenges in pharmaceutical applications. Future work should focus on scalability and multifunctional liposome systems.