Eudragit S100 microparticles containing Spodoptera frugiperda nucleopolyehedrovirus: physicochemical...

The aim of this study was to encapsulate the occlusion bodies (OBs) of Spodoptera frugiperda nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfNPV) in Eudragit S100 microparticles (MPs), considering this technique as a possible alternative to protect them from deleterious environmental conditions. The MPs were prepared by oil-in-oil emulsion (O/O) solvent evaporation method. Experimental conditions were established according to a previous multi-level experimental design involving the core/polymer ratio as independent variable. The effects of these parameters on particle size and process yield were investigated observing that polymer concentration had a significant effect on particle size. After adequate conditions for MPs formation were determined, virus was encapsulated. The virus microparticles presented a particle size between 50-300 microm and concentration was 2.62 x 10(9) OBs g(-1). Microencapsulation efficiency was 53.43% and virus release adjusted to Higuchi model suggesting diffusion as the release mechanism. Evaluated microencapsulation process protected viral particles of UV-inactivation, suggesting its potential for a biopesticide development.