Abstract: The present invention relates to a general method for producing sized protein-liposome conjugates exhibiting enhanced blood circulation times. The present invention also relates to the sized protein-liposome conjugate compositions produced by the method of the present invention. The protein-liposome conjugates of the present invention preferably range in size from about 75 nm to about 200 nm.The liposomes of the invention may have a transmembrane potential across their membranes, and may be dehydrated. In addition, the composition may contain ionizable bioactive agents such as antineplastic agents, and may be used in diagnostic assays.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are described for the preparation of alpha-tocopherol vesicles, the bilayers of which comprise a salt form of an organic acid derivative of alpha-tocopherol such as the Tris salt form of alpha-tocopherol hemisuccinate. The method is rapid and efficient and does not require the use of organic solvents. The alpha-tocopherol vesicles may be used to entrap compounds which are insoluble in aqueous solutions. Such preparations are especially useful for entrapping bioactive agents of limited solubility, thus enabling administration in vivo.

Abstract: A method for reducing the lamellarity of a population of liposomes is provided which comprises repeatedly passing the liposomes under pressure through a filter which has a pore size equal to or less than about 100 nm. In certain embodiments, the method is used to convert a population of previously formed multilamellar liposomes into a population of substantially unilamellar liposomes. In accordance with other aspects of the disclosure, liposomes are prepared directly from a lipid powder or pellet and buffer without the use of any solvents, detergents or other extraneous materials.