Introductory Remarks

Abstract

Sequestration of solutes within liposomes was the basis of the liposome drug-carrier concept, proposed and demonstrated in the early 70′s (1). Subsequent work established the feasibility of using liposomes in a multitude of therapies where site-directed delivery of drugs, coupled with avoidance of premature drug loss, inactivation and toxicity are required for optimal pharmacological action. Instrumental to the remarkable transition of the liposome from a laboratory curiosity 30 years ago to life-saving products today (2), were on the one hand substantial progress in the understanding of its behaviour in vivo (which led to strategies for behaviour control) and, on the other, sophisticated advances in the technology of the system.