Glycerosomes: A Novel Vesicular System for the Management of Various Diseases

Over the past four decades, many methodologies have been employed to engineer novel nanovesicles, including modifications to the characteristics of traditional phospholipid vesicles, known as liposomes. An overview of phospholipid nanovesicular systems, encompassing phospholipid soft vesicles and non-phospholipid vesicular carriers, is presented. Glycerosomes are innovative vesicular methods for drug delivery, applicable in both topical and systemic administration. These noninvasive carriers can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin to a greater extent than a free drug can. Glycerosomes consist of phospholipids, water, and a high quantity of glycerol (ranging from 20% to 40%), all of which are good and entirely suitable for topical formulations. A high quantity of glycerol positively influences drug penetration by improving vesicle flexibility and enhancing vesicle stability. They can encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs, protecting them from degradation. Currently, glycerosomal carriers represent a highly intriguing field of research for scientists. Glycerosomes have been employed in formulations for the treatment of conditions such as melanoma, wounds, and infections, as well as in cosmetics and skincare products. Consequently, glycerosomes may represent an innovative approach to developing drug delivery systems with enhanced efficacy and significant results. This review paper delineates the methods of glycerosome preparation, its biomedical applications, and future perspectives.