Liposomes: a Practical Approach (Practical Approach Series)

Since the first edition of "Liposomes - A Practical Approach" was published in 1990, Liposome technology has become a highly successful and rapidly developing area of preclinical and clinical research. During the 90's, a number of liposome-based drugs reached the market in the U.S. and Europe and several new aspects of liposome research have been discovered. As a consequence there has been an explosion of new procedures and techniques in the field. Reflecting both the significant changes in the field and the new discoveries, this new edition of Liposomes contains a combination of chapters from the 1st edition which have been significantly updated, and several new chapters. Each chapter is an outstanding contribution from leading experts in the field, and the book as a whole encompases all key areas of liposome technology. The first half of the book addresses a number of essential experimental protocols such as the preparation, characterization, and storage of liposomes. Also included are methods for drug encapsulation into liposomes, modification of the liposomal surface to control drug behaviour in biological environments, long-circulating liposomes and the use of cationic liposomes as transfection vectors. The second half of the book discusses specific areas of liposome research and application, such as pH-sensitive liposomes, liposomes for diagnostic imaging, liposomal DNA vaccines, isothermic titration calorimetry of liposomes and vesicular phospholipids gels. This new edition of Liposomes is an essential tool for all experienced liposomologists and the perfect introduction for researchers new to the field.