Nanoemulsions are nanoscale droplets (20-200 nm) of one liquid phase dispersed in another immiscible phase,
enhancing the delivery of poorly soluble drugs or ingredients. BOC Sciences offers Nanoemulsions Services,
specializing in the formulation, characterization, and optimization of nanoemulsions for drug delivery and
therapeutic applications.
Lipid micelles are tiny, spherical structures composed of lipid molecules that spontaneously self-assemble
in aqueous solutions. These micelles typically form when lipids, such as phospholipids or surfactants,
arrange themselves into a bilayer with their hydrophobic tails facing inward and the hydrophilic heads
facing outward. Lipid micelles are widely used in drug delivery systems, as they can encapsulate hydrophobic
drugs in their core, improving the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. They are
also used in cosmetics and skincare products for controlled release of active ingredients.
Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are nanocarriers composed of solid lipids that are stabilized in an aqueous
environment. Unlike micelles, SLNs are solid at room temperature and have a lipid matrix that allows for the
encapsulation of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs. SLNs are used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic
formulations for controlled drug release, enhanced stability, and targeted delivery. They offer advantages
such as low toxicity, biocompatibility, and the ability to protect sensitive drugs from degradation, making
them ideal for drug delivery, skin care products, and vaccine formulations.
Exosomes are small, membrane-bound vesicles that are naturally released from various types of cells into the
extracellular space. They range in size from 30 to 150 nm and play a key role in intercellular communication
by transferring proteins, lipids, RNA, and other molecules between cells. Exosomes are increasingly
recognized for their potential in drug delivery, as they can be engineered to carry therapeutic agents such
as RNA, proteins, or drugs to specific target cells. Their biocompatibility, ability to evade immune
detection, and natural origin make them promising candidates for various therapeutic applications, including
cancer treatment, gene therapy, and regenerative medicine.
Lipid drug conjugates (LDCs) are a class of therapeutic agents where lipids are chemically conjugated to
drugs to improve their pharmacokinetics, solubility, and delivery efficiency. By attaching lipids to drugs,
LDCs can enhance the drug's ability to cross biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier, or
improve its accumulation at the target site. These conjugates can also help in reducing off-target effects
and increasing the stability of the drug. LDCs are being explored in the treatment of diseases like cancer,
where they can be used to target specific cells more effectively and reduce side effects.
