Liposome-based hybrid drug delivery systems with DNA nanostructures and metallic nanoparticles

Introduction: This review discusses novel hybrid assemblies that are based on liposomal formulations. The focus is on the hybrid constructs that are formed through the integration of liposomes/vesicles with other nano-objects such as nucleic acid nanostructures and metallic nanoparticles. The aim is to introduce some of the recent, specific examples that bridge different technologies and thus may form a new platform for advanced drug delivery applications. Areas covered: We present selected examples of liposomal formulations combined with complex nanostructures either based on biomolecules like DNA origami or on metallic materials–metal/metal oxide/magnetic particles and metallic nanostructures, such as metal organic frameworks–together with their applications in drug delivery and beyond. Expert opinion: Merging the above-mentioned techniques could lead to development of drug delivery vehicles with the most desirable properties; multifunctionality, biocompatibility, high drug loading efficiency/accuracy/capacity, and stimuli-responsiveness. In the near future, we believe that especially the strategies combining dynamic, triggerable and programmable DNA nanostructures and liposomes could be used to create artificial liposome clusters for multiple applications such as examining protein-mediated interactions between lipid bilayers and channeling materials between liposomes for enhanced pharmacokinetic properties in drug delivery.