5. Glossary and table of acronyms

microcapsules

Micrometric spherical objects used to encapsulate active ingredients in an aqueous core covered by a membrane (lipidic, polymeric, etc.).

artificial cell

Minimal cell constructed from artificial elements. This term includes synthetic cells and protocells (the first cells to appear on earth at the origin of life).

liposomes (or vesicles)

A (supramolecular) assembly of lipids, forming a capsule with an aqueous core covered by a phospholipid membrane (bilayer). In parallel, polymersomes have a polymer membrane and colloidosomes a colloidal particle membrane.

colloid

A suspension of one or more substances homogeneously dispersed in another substance. Liposomes are typically colloids, as are particles dispersed...