Abstract
Aquasomes are ceramic nanoparticulate drug delivery systems, and they are
utilised for the delivery of antibiotics, hormones, peptides, genes, and proteins.
Structurally, aquasomes are self-assembled, consisting of three layers, where the solid
core is coated with an oligomeric film. Bioactive molecules or therapeutic agents are
adsorbed at the oligomeric film. The structural stability of this nanocarrier is provided
by the centre core, whereas the oligomeric film provides protection against dehydration
and stabilizes the active biological molecules. Active biochemical molecules with or
without modification are incorporated at the oligomeric film by diffusion, adsorption, or
copolymerization. It has been established that drug candidates have shown better
biological activity and immune response when they are delivered through aquasomes.
Insulin, poorly water-insoluble drugs, enzymes, and haemoglobin have been delivered
through aquasomes successfully. Therefore, aquasomes provide a new approach to
delivering a wide range of therapeutics such as vaccines, proteins, and peptides.
Keywords: Aquasomes, Drug delivery, Nanoparticles, Peptides, Proteins.