Advances in next-generation lipid-polymer hybrid nanocarriers with emphasis on polymer-modified functional liposomes and cell-based-biomimetic nanocarriers for active ingredients and fractions from Chinese medicine delivery

Abstract

Recently, functional liposomes modified with versatile polymer and cell-based- biomimetic nanoparticles have emerged as the most advanced lipid-polymer hybrid nanocarriers (LPNs) for drug delivery. This review highlights the advances of these two LPNs in the delivery of active ingredients and fractions from Chinese medicine with promising therapeutic, chemopreventive, or chemosensitive effects. To understand their complete potency, the relationship between the nanoparticle characteristics and their in vitro and in vivo performance characteristics has been discussed. Polymer-modified liposomes and cell-based biomimetic nanoparticles are beneficial for improving absorption, modulating release, targeting and overcoming multidrug resistance, and reducing side effects. The associated challenges, current limitations, and opportunities in this field are also discussed.

Keywords: Active fractions; Active ingredients; Cell-based-biomimetic nanocarriers; Chinese medicine; Polymer-modified liposomes.