The Efficacy of Nanoliposomes in Cancer Therapy: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Evidence
A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33005/jdiversemedres.v3i6.351Keywords:
Anticancer, Cancer, in vitro, liposome, nanoliposome, drugs deliveryAbstract
Background: Cancer therapy is frequently limited by suboptimal drug internalization, chemical instability, off-target toxicity, and the rapid emergence of multidrug resistance. Nanoliposomes and related lipid-based nanocarriers offer a promising solution by enhancing the pharmacokinetic and cellular delivery profiles of anticancer agents. Objective: This systematic review critically appraises the available scientific evidence regarding the in vitro efficacy of nanoliposome formulations in cancer therapy. Methods: A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted following the PRISMA framework across PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar. From 988 initial records, 441 full-text articles were assessed against predefined eligibility criteria, ultimately yielding 15 original studies for qualitative synthesis. Results: The synthesized data consistently demonstrate that nanoliposome encapsulation significantly enhances the biological performance of anticancer agents compared to free drugs in cell culture models. This enhancement is characterized by markedly reduced IC₅₀ values, decreased cancer cell viability, and increased apoptosis across diverse malignant cell lines. Mechanistically, these improvements are driven by liposome-facilitated active endocytosis, efficient endosomal escape via the Vesicle Budding-and-Collapse (VBC) pathway, and the ability to bypass P-glycoprotein-mediated efflux. Advanced formulations incorporating stimuli-responsive features, genetic payloads (siRNA, mRNA, CRISPR/Cas9), and tumor microenvironment-modifying enzymes demonstrated superior cytotoxic profiles. Conclusion: Nanoliposomes represent a highly functional nanotechnology platform for preclinical cancer intervention, effectively protecting active compounds and facilitating efficient intracellular delivery. However, the inherent limitations of two-dimensional cell cultures which lack the physiological complexity, dynamic tissue barriers, perfusion, and immune interactions of intact organisms necessitate cautious interpretation and further validation in advanced 3D models and in vivo systems.
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