Encapsulation of mature virus particles within a synthetic lipid envelope leverages a bilayer assembled from selected lipids—including fatty acids, vitamin E, and farnesylthiosalicylic acid derivatives—along with key co-lipids such as phospholipids, cholesterol, and DOPE. A hydrophilic polymer like PEG is attached via a cleavable linkage that responds to tumor-specific conditions, such as low pH, to ensure targeted release. This approach mimics natural enveloped virus forms, preserving and even enhancing viral infectivity while protecting the virus during systemic circulation by reducing neutralization from antibodies and avoiding premature clearance.