Surface-Functionalized Niosomes for Targeted Drug Delivery: Design Strategies, Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Translation

Abstract

Surface-functionalized niosomes have emerged as a promising nanocarrier system for targeted drug delivery, offering enhanced therapeutic efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity. This review comprehensively discusses the recent advances in the design strategies of niosomes functionalized with various ligands, polymers, and biomolecules to achieve targeted delivery to specific cells or tissues. Emphasis is placed on the molecular mechanisms underlying the improved cellular uptake, controlled release, and site-specific accumulation of drugs facilitated by surface modifications. We further explore the physicochemical parameters influencing niosome stability, targeting efficiency, and drug loading capacity. Additionally, this paper critically evaluates the preclinical and clinical progress of surface-functionalized niosomal formulations, addressing the challenges in their scalable production, regulatory considerations, and translational potential. By integrating insights from material science, molecular biology, and pharmaceutical technology, this review aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the rational design and clinical translation of surface-functionalized niosomes as next-generation targeted drug delivery platforms. Keywords: Niosomes, Targeted drug delivery, Mechanism