PREPARATION OF INHALABLE PROTEIN PARTICLES BY SCF-EMULSION DRYING

摘要

In this study, an new patented emulsion drying technique using high pressure carbon dioxide was employed for the generation of fine protein particles. Water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion droplets were sprayed into a continuous feed of high pressure carbon dioxide. Protein particles precipitated as a result of expansion of the droplets and removal of water by the CO_2-organic solvent mixture. Model enzymes (trypsin, catalase and lactase) and insulin were precipitated using this new process as micron-sized particles. Stabilized formulation of proteins incorporating buffer salts, sugars and possibly surfactants can be obtained and bio-activity is preserved as shown on several enzymes (catalase, trypsin, lactase). Moreover, in vivo tests of insulin demonstrated complete recovery of biological activity after processing.