COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON NIOSOMES USED IN ANTICANCER DRUG DELIVERY

Niosomes are non-ionic surfactant-based vesicular systems that have gained significant attention as smart nanocarriers for anticancer drug delivery. Their bilayer structure enables simultaneous encapsulation of both hydrophilic and lipophilic agents, improving solubility, stability, and therapeutic index of conventional chemotherapeutics. Recent advances in formulation design particularly the integration of pH-responsive and ligand-modified components allow niosomes to release drugs selectively within the acidic tumor microenvironment. Such responsiveness enhances intracellular uptake, prolongs systemic circulation, and minimizes off-target toxicity. Studies on co-delivery of drugs like doxorubicin, camptothecin, and curcumin demonstrate improved synergistic effects and reduced multidrug resistance. Moreover, niosomes exhibit favourable physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and scalability, making them a cost-effective alternative to liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles. However, their clinical application still faces challenges related to long-term stability, reproducibility, and regulatory approval. Overall, niosomes represent a promising and adaptable platform for the next generation of targeted and controlled anticancer drug delivery systems.