Characterization of Polyethylene Glycol–Reinforced Alginate Microcapsules for Mechanically Stable Cell Immunoisolation

Alginate-based microcapsules for immunoisolation of pancreatic islets.

Transplantation of microencapsulated cells is proposed as a therapy for the treatment of a wide variety of diseases since it allows for transplantation of endocrine cells in the absence of undesired immunosuppression. The technology is based on the principle that foreign cells are protected from the host immune system by an artificial membrane. In spite of the simplicity of the concept, progres...

An effective device for generating alginate microcapsules

An alternative approach to somatic gene therapy is to deliver the therapeutic protein by implanting genetically modified cells that could overexpress the gene of interest. Microencapsulation devices were designed to protect cells from host rejection and prevent the foreign cells from spreading while allowing protein secretion. Alginate microcapsules form a semi-permeable structure that is suita...

Cell Transplantation and Immunoisolation

Chitosan-coated alginate microcapsules loaded with galactagogue herbs extract: formulation optimization and characterization

Many herbs and spices have been recommended traditionally as galactagogues and several commercial formulations prepared using herbs. Due to the presence of various compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, isoflavones and terpenes, bitter and stringent taste is elicited that make the consumption of these herbal preparations unpleasant. Moreover, these compounds are unstable when exposed to env...

Intraperitoneal distribution of alginate microcapsules in mice

Introduction: Improved drug delivery mechanisms for the treatment of residual peritoneal cancer cells following cytoreduction surgery are needed. Alginate microcapsules are a potentially useful mechanism for delivery of bioengineered cells, but when injected into the peritoneum, their distribution and properties are not well described. Methods: Aliquots of 300, 600 or 1200 microcapsules were in...