Optimization of microencapsulation parameters: Semipermeable microcapsules as a bioartificial pancreas

An improved membrane has been developed for the microencapsulation of islets of Langerhans which protects these cells from the immune system. These requirements were accomplished through the optimization of important microencapsulation parameters and through the improved biocompatibility of a new alginate-poly-l-lysine (PLL)-alginate capsule membrane. Spherical and smooth microcapsules could be formed by utilizing a purer sodium alginate and by keeping the viscosity of the sodium alginate solution above 30 cps. The strength of the capsule membrane was enhanced by increasing the alginate-PLL reaction time as well as the PLL concentration. The permeability of the membrane [4 mum thick, 93% (w/w) water] was a function of the viscosity average molecular weight (Mv) of the PLL (Mv = 4000-4 x 10(5)) used in the encapsulation procedure. Microcapsules prepared with PLL with Mv = 1.7 x 10(4) were the least permeable, being impermeable to normal serum immunoglobulin, albumin, and haemoglobin. The microencapsulation procedure, by protecting transplanted tissue from the components of the immune system, has great clinical potential as a new form of treatment for diseases such as diabetes and liver disease.