The development and application of protein-liposome conjugation techniques

Numerous techniques have been developed over the past 10 years for the conjugation of proteins to liposomes. Early procedures involved coupling with reagents such as glutaraldehyde or EDCI. Subsequently, more sophisticated approaches involving selective bifunctional coupling agents have been developed. These later procedures are also much more efficient for coupling in aqueous media. The techniques of coupling have become more rigorous because investigators have recognized the inherent problems of producing, purifying and characterizing protein conjugated liposomes.

Protein-liposome coupling techniques were developed mainly for targeted drug delivery. The attachment of specific antibodies to the surface of the liposomes makes them able to bind to cells and to subsequently be internalised by the cells. Protein conjugated liposomes have also been used for various immunochemical and diagnostic purposes. These include the binding of labelled liposomes to cells and the agglutination of cells or latex particles by protein conjugated liposomes.