Aquasome information

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Aquasomes are self-assembling nanoparticle drug carrier systems composed of three layers: a ceramic core, an oligomer coat, and a loaded biochemically active molecule. Aquasomes are utilized for targeted drug delivery to achieve specific therapeutic effects, and are biocompatible, biodegradable, and stable. Due to their structure, aquasomes are capable of delivering several types of substrates, and can be used for applications such as delivery of antigens, insulin, and hemoglobin.

Aquasomes were first investigated by Kossovsky et al. in 1996 in experiments proposing their use in antigen delivery, drug delivery, and hemoglobin delivery systems.^[2] This initial research described aquasomes as self-assembling, with a novel surface modification process allowing the immobilization of drugs on the surface.^[2] The research was intended to address the molecular denaturation of polypeptide pharmaceuticals.^[2] Kossovsky et al. suggested that this system would be able to combat physical and chemical degradative agents affecting bioactive molecules while preserving the molecular structure of the drug.^[2]

Since this initial exploration, the understanding of the composition and applications of aquasomes has increased. After each individual layer is synthesized, aquasomes self-assemble into triple-layered particles. The tri-layer structure enables aquasomes to deliver and release poorly soluble drugs in a controlled manner. Delivery of these poorly soluble drugs within aquasomes increases their solubility, bioavailability, and stability. These drugs are adsorbed onto the surface of the aquasome, forming its third layer, which confers bioactive properties to the aquasome.