The invention provides a nanoscale particle comprising a lipid binding polypeptide, lipids and a hydrophobic agent, wherein the hydrophobic agent is different from the lipids, and wherein the lipid binding polypeptide is a saposin-like protein or a derivative or truncated form thereof. The invention further provides a process for preparing a particle comprising a saposin-like protein or a derivative or truncated form thereof and lipids comprising the step of (a) contacting the saposin-like protein or a derivative or truncated form thereof with solubilized lipids in a liquid environment and (b) allowing for the self-assembly of the particle at a pH of from 5.0 to 10.0. In addition, the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising the particle of the invention for delivering a hydrophobic agent to an individual in need thereof and includes the use of the particle of the invention in preventing, treating or lessening the severity of a disease or its use in a diagnostic method, a cosmetic treatment, as hydrophobic agent delivery particle, as a tool for drug development, drug screening, membrane protein research or as vaccination formulation.
