Recent Advances in Functional Lipid-Based Nanomedicine as Drug Carriers for Organ-Specific Delivery

Abstract

Lipid-based nanoparticles have emerged as promising drug delivery systems for a wide range of therapeutic agents, including plasmids, mRNA, and proteins. However, these nanoparticles still encounter various challenges in drug delivery, including drug leakage, poor solubility, and inadequate target specificity. In this comprehensive review, we present an in-depth investigation of four distinct drug delivery methods: liposomes, lipid nanoparticle formulations, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanoemulsions. Moreover, we explore recent advances in lipid-based nanomedicines (LBNs) for organ-specific delivery, employing ligand-functionalized particles that specifically target receptors in desired organs. Through this strategy, LBNs enable direct and efficient drug delivery to the intended organs, leading to superior DNA or mRNA expression outcomes compared to conventional approaches. Importantly, the development of novel ligands and their judicious combination holds promise for minimizing the side effects associated with nonspecific drug delivery. By leveraging the unique properties of lipid-based nanoparticles and optimizing their design, researchers can overcome the limitations associated with current drug delivery systems. In this review, we aim to provide valuable insights into the advancements, challenges, and future directions of lipid-based nanoparticles in the field of drug delivery, paving the way for enhanced therapeutic strategies with improved efficacy and reduced adverse effects.