Introduction
A major challenge in liposomal drug delivery is the poor stability of cationic liposomes in physiological conditions. To address this, researchers developed a hybrid system combining hyaluronic acid-modified gold nanoparticles (HA-AuNPs) with cationic liposomes. This innovative surface engineering strategy improves liposome stability while preserving their drug delivery potential — especially for cancer therapies.
💡 Why This Research Matters
Cationic liposomes are good at delivering nucleic acids and drugs but tend to aggregate in biological fluids.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) provides stealth, biocompatibility, and tumor-targeting properties.
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) act as stabilizers and spacers between vesicles.
This synergy improves colloidal stability, cellular uptake, and controlled drug release.
🧬 Key Findings
HA-AuNPs coat cationic liposomes without disturbing size or charge balance.
The system showed excellent colloidal stability in physiological salt conditions.
In vitro studies confirmed low cytotoxicity and good uptake by cancer cells.
The hybrid liposomes can be used for gene or drug delivery, especially in oncology.
✅ Conclusion
By modifying gold nanoparticles with hyaluronic acid and using them to stabilize liposomes, this research offers a powerful tool to improve the delivery and performance of cationic nanocarriers. This hybrid system holds great potential in targeted drug delivery for cancer and beyond.
📄 Full Article Reference
Title: Stabilization of cationic liposomes using hyaluronic acid modified gold nanoparticles
Journal: Materials Science and Engineering: C, 2021
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msec.2020.111404
