Abstract Gael Clergeaud
Lipid molecules can form numerous supramolecular structures through their self-assembly properties displayed within aqueous environments. One of the most explored structures, the liposomes, are formed when lamellar bilayers bend into closed vesicles containing an aqueous core inside. This particular structural organization, offering hydrophilic (core) and hydrophobic (within the membrane) environments to carry both polar and non-polar molecules,as well as their biocompatible, biodegradable and non-immunogenic properties, make liposomes as one of the cornerstones of nanobiotechnology.
Consequently, liposomes have been extensively established as versatile tools in a large number of applications including pharmaceutics, cosmetics, food technology, models as biological membranes, signal amplifiers in analytical sciences, nanoreactors, diagnosing tools and a wide so on. In summary, the work presented in this doctoral thesis strengthens the view of liposomes as versatile tools that can be used in many different scientific applications. Liposomes were exploited as nanoreactors or templates for the shape and size controlled synthesis of metal nanoparticles. Furthermore, liposomes were used as membrane models that mimic the cell plasma membrane for the determination of zinc ionophore activity of several dietary phenolic compounds. Ultimately, the ability of liposomes to carry and delivery drugs was explored in order to investigate the potential of enzyme-degradable liposomes as drug carriers for the encapsulation of oxaliplatin to effectively enhance its pharmacokinetics for the treatment of colon cancer. In summary, the work presented in this thesis strengthens the vision of liposomes as a versatile tool that can be used in different scientific applications.
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