An Overview on Lipid Nanocapsules: Exploring the Role in Precision Cancer Treatment and Lymphatic Drug Distribution

Abstract

Lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) are an emerging nanocarrier platform for cancer therapy as they can co-deliver multiple drugs, promote synergistic action, and provide targeted drug delivery. The phase inversion temperature (PIT) process is most used for LNC formulation, which has the advantage of process simplicity, thermodynamic stability, and the employment of non-toxic solvents without requiring high energy input. Surface functionalization with targeting ligands like folic acid and peptides increases tumor specificity and reduces off-target toxicity. The nanoscale dimensions and stealth properties of LNCs also take advantage of the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect for enhanced tumor accumulation. LNCs provide precise cancer therapy through the ability to deliver drugs selectively, improve bioavailability, and reduce systemic toxicity. Their nanometer dimensions and surface characteristics allow for effective lymphatic uptake and passive tumor targeting. LNCs offer a potential platform for site-specific treatment, particularly in metastatic cancer with lymphatic involvement. LNCs have become multifunctional platforms with accurate, effective, and patient-friendly delivery systems for cancer treatments. This review critically examines new developments in LNC-based cancer therapies, focusing on optimization of physicochemical properties, improved targeting efficiency, and facilitation of combination therapy. In addition, it draws attention to the translational advantages of LNCs in alleviating systemic toxicity, enhancing pharmacokinetics, and overcoming multidrug resistance in cancer treatment.

Keywords: Lipid nanocapsule, Tumor targeting, Cancer, Systemic toxicity, Ligands