Lipoprotein-based drug delivery

Lipoproteins (LPs) are circulating heterogeneous nanoparticles produced by the liver and intestines. LPs play a major role in the transport of dietary and endogenous lipids to target cells through cell membrane receptors or cell surface-bound lipoprotein lipase. The stability, biocompatibility, and selective transport of LPs make them promising delivery vehicles for various therapeutic and imaging agents. This review discusses isolation, manufacturing, and drug loading techniques used for LP-based drug delivery, as well as recent applications for diagnosis and treatment of cancer, atherosclerosis, and other life-threatening diseases. [Display omitted] •Lipoproteins are circulating endogenous nanoparticles targeted to specific tissues.•Lipoproteins can be isolated from biological fluids or synthetically manufactured.•Therapeutic and imaging molecules can be loaded in lipoproteins.•Lipoprotein-based drug delivery is promising for e.g. cancer and atherosclerosis.•Challenges include cost-efficient, scalable, and standardized manufacturing.