Liposomes are spherical particles made of lipid membranes with a size between approximately 20 and several hundred nanometres. They enclose an aqueous phase and are therefore suitable as carriers for active ingredients.
Structure of liposomes
The membrane shell of a liposome consists of a double layer of molecules. These have a non-polar, fat-loving (lipophilic) part and a polar, water-loving (hydrophilic) part. Such molecules are referred to as amphiphilic.
High-pressure homogenisers and ultrasound are frequently used to manufacture liposomes. Modern rotor-stator homogenisers are equally suitable.
Requirements for the process plant
In addition to high performance and flexibility, the plant should offer space for additional components, such as controlled flow measurement. This allows the energy input to be controlled fully automatically and reliably maintained. Also important:
- Wide range of shear intensity – from intensive homogenising to gentle pumping and discharging
- Infinitely variable speed adjustment of agitator and homogeniser
- Reversing operation
- Radial and vertical mixing
This allows one plant to cover all stages of liposome production.
FAQ: Manufacturing liposomes
What are liposomes?
Liposomes are spherical vesicles made of a lipid bilayer (usually phospholipids), approximately 20 nm to several hundred nm in size, that enclose an aqueous core. They transport hydrophilic and lipophilic active ingredients in medicinal products and cosmetics.
How are liposomes manufactured industrially?
Lipids are hydrated and the resulting vesicles are reduced in size by energy input: with rotor-stator homogenisers, high-pressure homogenisers, ultrasound or extrusion.
Can liposomes be produced with a rotor-stator homogeniser?
Yes, for many applications. A reproducible, controllable energy input is crucial, e.g. via infinitely variable speed and flow measurement in the circulation. For very small vesicles, high-pressure homogenisation is often used in addition.
What matters with the plant?
A wide range of shear intensity from maximum homogenisation to gentle pumping, temperature control, vacuum, GMP design as well as CIP/SIP.
Does SEEFRIED support liposome manufacturing?
Yes, with process consulting, trial planning and suitable homogenising plants for liposomes and nanoemulsions.