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Published on: March 9, 2019
Preparation of stimulus responsive multiple emulsions by membrane emulsification using con a as biochemical sensor
Emma Piacentini1, Enrico Drioli, Lidietta Giorno
1Institute on Membrane Technology, CNR-ITM, Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy. e.piacentini@itm.cnr.it
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
|March 16, 2011
Summary
This study introduces a novel method for creating biomolecule-responsive multiple emulsions using membrane emulsification. These glucose-sensitive emulsions, featuring Concanavalin A (Con A), enable controlled release of active molecules upon glucose detection.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Colloid and Interface Science
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Developing advanced drug delivery systems necessitates precise fabrication techniques for functional emulsions.
- Biomolecular stimulus-responsive materials offer targeted therapeutic potential but require innovative preparation methods.
- Existing strategies for stimulus-responsive materials lack exploration in biomolecule-responsive emulsion preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a novel strategy for controlled fabrication of biomolecular stimulus-responsive water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) multiple emulsions.
- To functionalize emulsion interfaces with biomolecules as receptors for target stimuli, enabling triggered release of encapsulated bioactive molecules.
- To demonstrate the feasibility of using membrane emulsification for preparing stable, functional W/O/W emulsions with biomolecular sensing capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Utilized membrane emulsification for controlled fabrication of W/O/W multiple emulsions.
- Functionalized emulsion interfaces with Concanavalin A (Con A) as a specific glucose receptor.
- Investigated the influence of interfacial composition and membrane emulsification parameters on emulsion stability and functionality.
Main Results:
- Successfully prepared stable W/O/W multiple emulsions incorporating Con A as an interfacial biomolecular receptor.
- Demonstrated that the interaction between Con A and glucose stimulus triggers the release of encapsulated bioactive molecules.
- Showcased the concentration-dependent release of bioactive molecules in response to varying glucose levels.
Conclusions:
- Membrane emulsification is a flexible and suitable technique for preparing stable, functional biomolecule-responsive multiple emulsions.
- The developed glucose-sensitive emulsions with Con A can precisely control the release of bioactive molecules based on glucose presence.
- This approach represents a novel advancement in creating targeted drug delivery systems with specific biomolecular sensing capabilities.
