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Characterization of liposome suspensions by flow cytometry
N K Childers1, S M Michalek, J H Eldridge
1School of Dentistry, University of Alabama, Birmingham 35294.
Journal of Immunological Methods
|April 21, 1989
Summary
Flow cytometry effectively assesses liposome size and uniformity. This method using forward laser scatter (FSC) analysis proves rapid and reliable for evaluating liposome preparations, ensuring quality control in drug delivery applications.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Liposomes are versatile drug delivery vehicles with diverse properties.
- Characterizing liposome size and uniformity is crucial for their efficacy.
- Existing methods for liposome characterization can be time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate flow cytometry as a rapid method for assessing liposome size and uniformity.
- To compare liposome preparations made by sonication versus microemulsification.
Main Methods:
- Liposomes were prepared using sonication alone or sonication followed by microemulsification.
- Forward laser light scatter (FSC) analysis via flow cytometry was employed.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for confirmation.
Main Results:
- Microemulsification yielded homogeneous, small liposomes (<1 micron), confirmed by TEM (mean diameter 99.8 nm).
- Sonication alone produced heterogeneous liposomes (mean diameter 154.1 nm).
- Flow cytometry FSC analysis demonstrated stability of small liposomes over 9 weeks.
Conclusions:
- Flow cytometry with FSC analysis is a rapid, reproducible, and convenient method for evaluating liposome size, uniformity, and stability.
- Microemulsification is a superior method for generating homogeneous liposomes compared to sonication alone.
- This technique aids in quality control for liposome-based drug delivery systems.