Chapter 2 Functionalized Liposomes

Abstract Functionalized liposomes are currently used in the area of nanobiotechnology. For example, the interior of a liposome provides a controlled nano-environment with a defined pH, protects molecules against dilution and from hostile environment, for example, from proteases. The substrate entry and the enzymatic reaction product exit (or pro-drug digest for therapeutic application) are controlled through membrane channels. In order to benefit from liposomes as building blocks in a larger context, one needs to achieve stability in shape and structure. In biological membranes, the extracellular matrix and the cytoskeleton offer a very good stabilization of the lipid membrane. This stratified layer solution was adopted to stabilize liposomes. Various polymers were used to coat liposomes on the outside or inside of the phospholipid bilayer. Furthermore, a few examples are demonstrated.