Efficient microcapsule preparation and method of use
AssigneeBoard of Regents, The University of Texas System
InventorsSidney Wallace, David Yang, Michael Wallace
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a method of preparing microcapsules suitable for encapsulation of therapeutic and diagnostic agents. The capsular coats are prepared from biodegradable polymers. In a particular aspect of the invention, surface charge of the polymeric material is altered by conjugation of an amino acid ester to the polymer, providing targeting to specific tissue cells. Encapsulation of hydrophilic radiodiagnostic agents in 1 .mu.m capsules provides improved opacification. Encapsulation of cytotoxic agents in 100 .mu.m capsules is useful in chemoembolization procedures.
Claims13
A method of preparing amino-acid conjugated polymeric microcapsules capable of selective in vivo organ targeting, comprising the steps:
- attaching an amino acid to poly-(D,L)-lactic acid to form a modified polymer;
- combining water, organic solvent, an emulsifier and the modified polymer to form an emulsion;
- agitating the mixture for a period of time sufficient to allow formation of microcapsules of about 0.5 to about 200 .mu.m in size;
- removing the organic solvent;
- and
- collecting the microcapsules.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.