Effects of lipid composition on the properties of doxorubicin-loaded liposomes

Background: The liposomal lipid composition of doxorubicin-loaded liposome likely will influence its pharmacological activity. Results & methodology: We prepared 18 formulations of doxorubicin-loaded liposomes in which the lipid composition was varied. It was indicated that the intracellular uptake of doxorubicin is the primary property of doxorubicin-loaded liposome that affects its cytotoxicity in vitro. Furthermore, the release rate of doxorubicin from liposome and the biological activity of the lipid itself also affected the cytotoxicity. Summary: These findings provide an insight into how lipid composition influences the cytotoxicity of the doxorubicin-loaded liposomes. Our results provide valuable information that should help to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of liposomal anticancer drug products by optimizing their formulations.