A Comprehensive Literature Review of Lipids Used in the Formulation of Lipid Nanoparticles

Lipid nanocarriers are reaching new heights in the field of drug delivery. The core of this technology resides in simple molecules, i.e., lipids. Solid and liquid lipids of biocompatible and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status are employed for the development of lipid nanoparticles along with surfactant(s), solvents, and drug molecules. Researchers have practiced a variety of solid and liquid lipids with acceptable profiles in the formulation of lipid nanoparticles. Solid lipids like triglycerides, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, waxes, and butter have been used in designing lipid nanocarriers. The potential of various plant-based oils has also been tested in designing nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). With the exponential advancement in lipid-based delivery systems, there exists a need for an appropriate lipid system to obtain an effective product. This review gives a brief insight into lipids, which have been exploited by researchers for designing solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers. A tabular presentation of important key points of past studies exploiting these lipids for preparing SLN/NLC is the highlight of the article.