An Update on the Recent Advances in Cubosome: A Novel Drug Delivery System

Curr Drug Metab. 2021;22(6):441-450. doi: 10.2174/1389200221666210105121532.

Abstract

Cubosomes are highly stable nanostructured liquid crystalline dosage delivery form, derived from amphiphilic lipids and polymer-based stabilizers converting it in a form of effective biocompatible carrier for the drug delivery. The delivery form comprised of bicontinuous lipid bilayers arranged in three-dimensional honeycombs like structure provided with two internal aqueous channels for the incorporation of many s biologically active ingredients. In contrast to liposomes, they provide a large surface area for the incorporation of different types of ingredients. Due to the distinct advantages of biocompatibility and thermodynamic stability, cubosomes have remained the first preference as a method of choice in the sustained release, controlled release, and targeted release dosage forms as new drug delivery system for the better release of the drugs. As a lot of advancement in the new form of dosage form brought the novel avenues in drug delivery mechanisms, so it was a matter of worth to compile the latest updates on the various aspects of the mentioned therapeutic delivery system including its structure, routes of applications along with the potential applications to encapsulate variety drugs to serve health-related benefits.

Keywords: Cubosome; amphiphilic; bicontinuous; cubic phase; drug delivery.; nanoparticles.

MeSH terms

  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Lipids / administration & dosage*
  • Lipids / chemistry*
  • Nanoparticles
  • Nanostructures
  • Polymers

Substances

  • Lipids
  • Polymers