Microencapsulation of beta-galactosidase with Eudragit L-100.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Beta-galactosidase (lactase) is crucial for lactose digestion.
• Enzyme stability and targeted delivery remain challenges in therapeutic applications.
• pH-sensitive polymers offer potential for controlled release systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize microcapsules for beta-galactosidase (lactase) using Eudragit L-100.
• To evaluate the impact of formulation variables on microencapsulation efficiency and enzyme activity.
• To assess the in vitro release profile of lactase from microcapsules under different pH conditions.

Main Methods:

• Solvent evaporation technique for microcapsule preparation.
• Utilized Eudragit L-100 as a pH-sensitive polymer and sucrose stearate as a stabilizer.
• Investigated various polymer-enzyme ratios and total solid content.
• Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) for material interaction analysis.
• In vitro dissolution studies at acidic and intestinal pH.

Main Results:

• Microcapsule particle size was dependent on stirring conditions, not ingredient proportions.
• A minimum of 2% sucrose stearate was essential for microcapsule integrity.
• Higher encapsulation efficiencies were achieved with 15% total solid content.
• DSC indicated interactions between Eudragit L-100, enzyme, and sucrose stearate.
• Enzyme activity decreased to 40% under stressed storage conditions.
• No lactase release occurred in acidic media (pH < 6.8) within 1 hour.
• 80% lactase release was observed within 2.5 hours at pH 6.8.

Conclusions:

• Eudragit L-100 microcapsules provide a feasible method for protecting lactase in acidic environments.
• The developed system demonstrates controlled release of lactase at intestinal pH.
• This approach holds promise for improving oral enzyme delivery and efficacy.