EmulTech projects
Chitosan Delivery System
August 11, 2011This project aims to produce chitosan microparticles in ET4ME. Chitosan, a polycationic biopolymer, has favorable characteristics, like cationic charge for uptake by mucosae, and because it is widely recognized in the field of health for its many interesting properties such as biocompatibitiliy and biodegradation.
It is a perfect candidate to extend the residence time of the active ingredients in contact with mucous membranes. A wide range of chitosan grades is produced and delivered in ultra-pure form by Kitozyme, particle engineering is done by EmulTech and the recombinant allergens for delivery are developed by Stallergenes.
A current trend in the pharmaceutical community is to improve the therapeutic effect of the active ingredients using existing formulations that improve their absorption and effectiveness. One strategy in consideration is the use of a mucoadhesive matrix that allows both for protection of the active as for the improvement of its absorption in the mucous membranes of the body.
The absorption of chitosan microparticles is strongly influenced by their morphology. Particle matrices in the range of one micron are particularly well suited for mucosal absorption because of their favourable surface morphology. However, the current production methods (by spray drying or coprecipitation) do not sufficiently control the morphology of these particles. Especially reproducible particle production in the micron range is in high demand in the pharmaceutical sector.
In this project, the treatment of sublingual desensitization of recombinant allergens combined with particles of chitosan will be evaluated in vivo in an animal model. This vaccine formulation is likely to induce tolerance and increase the efficiency of an allergen against respiratory allergies.
The project is supported by funding from the European Union.
Partners KitoZyme (Belgium) and Stallergenes (France)