Liposomes are spherical particles made of lipid membranes with a size of about 20 to 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 called amphiphilic.
High-pressure homogenisers and ultrasound are often used to produce liposomes. Modern rotor-stator homogenisers are also 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. The following features are also important:
- a wide range of shear intensity – from intensive homogenisation to gentle pumping and discharge
- variable speed for agitator and homogeniser
- reversing operation
- radial and vertical mixing
In this way, one plant covers all production stages of liposome manufacturing.
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.