Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

In Vitro Permeation of FITC-loaded Ferritins Across a Rat Blood-brain Barrier: a Model to Study the Delivery of Nanoformulated Molecules
Published on: August 22, 2016
Analytical and regulatory considerations for ferritin-containing pharmaceutical products
This study details the analytical characterization of industrial ferritin, focusing on iron and protein content, and purity. Size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography (SEC-HPLC) is highlighted as a key method for evaluating ferritin quality and identifying contaminants.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Pharmaceutical Science
Background:
- Ferritin is a natural, non-toxic iron-storage protein with pharmaceutical potential for treating iron deficiency.
- Industrial production of ferritin necessitates robust analytical characterization for quality control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish comprehensive analytical methods for characterizing industrial ferritin preparations.
- To assess iron content, protein levels, protein identity, and purity of ferritin samples.
Main Methods:
- Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) for protein identification.
- Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) for protein identity and molecular weight determination.
- Size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography (SEC-HPLC) with UV detection for detailed analysis of ferritin and contaminants.
Main Results:
- Multiple analytical techniques were applied to eight different ferritin samples.
- SEC-HPLC effectively distinguished ferritin from other proteins and preservatives, allowing molecular dimension evaluation.
- Quantitative analysis of ferritin monomer and other protein fractions was achieved using SEC-HPLC peak analysis.
Conclusions:
- Analytical characterization is crucial for industrial ferritin used in pharmaceutical applications.
- SEC-HPLC is a powerful tool for assessing ferritin purity, identifying aggregates, and quantifying protein components.
- Comprehensive analysis ensures the quality and safety of ferritin for therapeutic use.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Regulation
Bioavailability: Influencing Factors
Drug Products: Biologics, Biosimilars and Interchangeables
Biopharmaceutical Factors Influencing Drug Product Design: Overview
Pharmaceutical Alternatives: Polymorphic Form-Related and Particle Size-Related Therapeutic Nonequivalence
FDA Approved Drugs: Changes to Approved Drugs

