Liposomes are spherical particles formed from lipid membranes, ranging in size from around 20 to several hundred nanometers, which enclose an aqueous phase and whose membrane shell consists of a double layer of molecules containing both a nonpolar (lipophilic, fat-loving) and a polar (hydrophilic, water-loving) part, and are therefore referred to as amphiphilic. High pressure homogenisers and ultrasound processing are also frequently employed in the production of liposomes.
Modern homogenisers can also be employed in the production of liposomes. In addition to high performance and flexibility, the process plant should also offer numerous possibilities for the installation of additional components, such as a regulated flow measurement. In this way, the energy input during liposome production can be fully automatically controlled and its compliance ensured.
Process plants enable flexible use, as they allow adjustment of the shear energy during homogenisation, from the highest to the gentlest circulation and pumping of the products. The machine designs should offer a wide range of shear intensity, in order to cover all stages of the liposome production. Infinitely variable speed adjustment of the agitator and the homogeniser, the reversing operation and both radial and vertical mixing should further ensure optimum production conditions.
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FAQ: Producing liposomes
What are liposomes?
Liposomes are spherical vesicles made of a lipid bilayer (usually phospholipids), about 20 nm to several hundred nm in size, enclosing an aqueous core. They carry hydrophilic and lipophilic actives in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
How are liposomes produced industrially?
Lipids are hydrated and the resulting vesicles are reduced in size by energy input: rotor-stator homogenisers, high-pressure homogenisers, ultrasound or extrusion.
Can liposomes be made with a rotor-stator homogeniser?
Yes, for many applications. A reproducible, controllable energy input is key, e.g. via variable speed and flow measurement in the recirculation loop. Very small vesicles often require additional high-pressure homogenisation.
What matters in the process plant?
A wide range of shear intensity from maximum homogenisation to gentle pumping, temperature control, vacuum, GMP design and CIP/SIP.
Does SEEFRIED support liposome production?
Yes, with process consulting, trial planning and suitable homogenising plants for liposomes and nanoemulsions.