Polymersome

Polymersomes are bilayered membranes of amphiphilic synthetic polymers which are similar to liposomes, which use naturally occurring lipids. While having most of the properties of natural liposomes, polymersomes exhibit increased stability and reduced permeability. Furthermore, the use of synthetic polymers enables designers to manipulate the characteristics of these capsules, including controlled release (eg. Ahmed et al. 2004).

Similar to liposomes, polymersomes can be made invisible to the immune system through a coating of polyethylene glycol. Such polymersomes are often PEGylated. Thus, polymersomes make ideal carriers for targeted medication. However, for in vivo applications, polymersomes are de facto limited to the use of FDA-approved polymers as most pharmaceutical firms are unlikely to develop novel polymers due to cost issues.