Lipid polymer hybrid carrier systems for cancer targeting: A review

Cancer has been the most deleterious disease since few decades and its prevalence is increasing day by day. Scientists have developed many novel carrier systems to modify the delivery of anticancer drugs specifically toward the cancer sites. Liposomes seemed to be the particles of choice to carry anticancer drugs owing to their biomembrane-friendly structure. However, poor stability and storage problems remain a drawback. Polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) offer their rigid structure making controlled release of drugs possible. PNPs also maintain their integrity for a longer period of time. Recently, the benefits of the two carrier systems mentioned above have been combined into a single hybrid carrier system, i.e., lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles. Such a setting makes a useful carrier system taking advantages of both the counterparts and minimizing their limitations at the same time. In this review, special types of lipid and polymer hybrid structures are discussed in detail. Also the methods of preparation along with controlling formulation parameters have been discussed. Various targeting moieties have been enlisted along with their mechanisms of active targeting. These moieties can be functionalized onto the surfaces of these hybrid particles. Special focus has been given to the colorectal cancer, throwing light upon its prevalence and already available treatment options. Lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles enable the researchers to formulate a carrier system that will be able to provide targeted anticancer drug delivery.