Researchers watch in real time as fat-encased drug nanoparticles invade skin cells

Some anti-cancer drugs are encapsulated to allow gradual release, spreading their effect over a longer time. For example, one formulation of the chemotherapy doxorubicin (the FDA-approved drug Doxil) encloses molecules of the drug in fatty nano-spheres called liposomes, which allows the drug to circulate longer in the blood. However, the use of liposome “capsules” often comes with side-effects. Unfortunately, liposomes often end up in skin cells, resulting in rash and even lesions. These side effects can be “dose-limiting,” meaning that the amount of medicine that can be used is limited by the severity of side-effects. If researchers could decrease the side-effects of liposome use, doctors could use higher doses of these drugs, perhaps leading to better cancer control.