Synthesis and Potential Applications of Lipid Nanoparticles in Medicine

Currently, carriers of active ingredients in the form of particles of a size measured in nanometers are the focus of interest of research centers worldwide. So far, submicrometer emulsions, liposomes, as well as microspheres, and nanospheres made of biodegradable polymers have been used in medicine. Recent studies show particular interest in nanoparticles based on lipids, and at the present time, are even referred to as the era of lipid carriers. With the passage of time, lipid nanoparticles of the so-called first and second generation, SLN (Solid Lipid Nanoparticles) and nanostructured lipid carriers and NLC (Nanostructured Lipid Carriers), respectively, turned out to be an alternative for all imperfections of earlier carriers. These carriers are characterized by a number of beneficial functional properties, including, among others, structure based on lipids well tolerated by the human body, high stability, and ability to carry hydro- and lipophilic compounds. Additionally, these carriers can enhance the distribution of the drug in the target organ and alter the pharmacokinetic properties of the drug carriers to enhance the medical effect and minimize adverse side effects. This work is focused on the current review of the state-of-the-art related to the synthesis and applications of popular nanoparticles in medicine, with a focus on their use, e.g., in COVID-19 vaccines.

Automated summary

Currently, there is a significant interest in carriers of active ingredients in the form of nanoparticles. Lipid-based nanoparticles have gained particular attention and are considered as a new era of lipid carriers. These carriers exhibit beneficial properties such as good tolerance by the human body, high stability, and the ability to carry both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds. They can improve drug distribution in target organs, modify the pharmacokinetic properties of drug carriers, and enhance medical efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. This review focuses on the synthesis and applications of popular nanoparticles in medicine, with a specific focus on their use in COVID-19 vaccines.