Virosome, a hybrid vehicle for efficient and safe drug delivery and its emerging application in cancer treatment

Acta Pharm. 2015 Jun;65(2):105-16. doi: 10.1515/acph-2015-0019.

Abstract

A virosome is an innovative hybrid drug delivery system with advantages of both viral and non-viral vectors. Studies have shown that a virosome can carry various biologically active molecules, such as nucleic acids, peptides, proteins and small organic molecules. Targeted drug delivery using virosome-based systems can be achieved through surface modifications of virosomes. A number of virosome-based prophylactic and therapeutic products with high safety profiles are currently available in the market. Cancer treatment is a big battlefield for virosome-based drug delivery systems. This review provides an overview of the general concept, preparation procedures, working mechanisms, preclinical studies and clinical applications of virosomes in cancer treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical / methods
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical / methods
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Virosomes / chemistry*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Virosomes