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Hydrophobically modified alginate hydrogels as protein carriers with specific controlled release properties
M Leonard1, M Rastello De Boisseson, P Hubert
1Laboratoire de Chimie Physique Macromoléculaire, Groupe ENSIC, BP 451, UMR CNRS-INPL 7568, 54001 Nancy Cedex, France. Michele.Leonard@ensic.inpl-nancy.fr
Summary
Chemically modified sodium alginate forms hydrogels for high-yield protein encapsulation. These novel particles offer controlled release, unlike traditional calcium alginate, showing promise for vaccine delivery.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Sodium alginate derivatives with covalently bound alkyl chains form robust hydrogels.
- These amphiphilic hydrogels exhibit shear-thinning and thixotropic properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel alginate-based particles for efficient protein encapsulation and controlled release.
- To evaluate the potential of these particles for vaccine delivery applications.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of amphiphilic sodium alginate derivatives.
- Formation of hydrogel particles via dispersion in sodium chloride solutions.
- Encapsulation of model proteins (BSA, Hb) and a vaccine protein (H. pylori urease).
Main Results:
- High encapsulation yields (70-100%) for proteins.
- No protein release in water, contrasting with calcium alginate particles.
- Controlled protein release achieved by surfactant or esterase addition.
Conclusions:
- Amphiphilic sodium alginate hydrogels provide a stable matrix for protein encapsulation.
- The system allows for tunable, triggered protein release.
- Demonstrated potential for effective immunization against H. pylori infection in mice.