Abstract

Mycobacteria are intracellular pathogens that invade and reside inside macrophages. There has been a rapid resurgence in infections caused by the genus mycobacteria. Chemotherapy of mycobacterial infections is prolonged, hepatotoxic and very often inadequate in achieving optimal drug concentrations inside the cells. Recent advances in controlled delivery systems for drugs such as liposomes have sparked a renewed interest in their potential application for the treatment of mycobacterial infections. The versatility of liposomes in incorporation of hydrophilic / hydrophobic components, non-toxic nature, biodegradability, biocompatibility and property of sustained release makes them attractive candidates for the delivery of antitubercular drugs. Liposome research in the area of mycobacterial diseases has evolved and matured through several phases; from the laboratory to the clinics. This review, thus focuses on the use of liposomes for the treatment of various types of mycobacterial diseases.

Keywords: liposomes, mycobacterium tuberculosis, mycobacterium avium, drug delivery, chemotherapy, tuberculosis