Polymerized lipids, distribution

Thus far, it could be shown that stable liposomes can be prepared by polymerization of lipids. These vesicle systems, however, are still far away from being a real biomembrane model. As of now, they do not show any typical biological behavior such as surface recognition, enzymatic activities, variable lipid distribution, and the ability to undergo fusion. 

In pursuit of enhanced liposomal stability, Ringsdorf, Regen, Chapman, and O Brien pioneered the use of polymerized liposomes. These liposomes were prepared from polymerizable lipid molecules. Polymerized liposomes demonstrated uniform size distribution and are considerably more stable compared to their unpolymerized counterparts. Various polymerizable groups (e.g., butadiene, dia-cetylene, vinyl, or methacryloyl ) have been used to achieve the polymerization of the lipid bilayers. These reactive groups on the lipid may be in the head group region, the hydrocarbon core, or at the hydrocarbon termini. 

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