A nanocomplex, of particle size 50 nm to 1000 nm, containing saporin and a lipid-like compound, in which saporin binds to the lipid-like compound via non-covalent interaction or covalent bonding. The lipid-like compound has a hydrophilic moiety, a hydrophobic moiety, and a linker joining the hydrophilic moiety and the hydrophobic moiety. The hydrophilic moiety is optionally charged and the hydrophobic moiety has 8 to 24 carbon atoms. Also disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition containing such a nanocomplex and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The nanocomplex is useful in treating diseases, such as cancer.
