SEM of Microparticles

Microparticles

SurModics scientists have been key participants in many areas of microencapsulated product development, from work with contraceptive steroids in the 70s, to pioneering work with LHRH peptides in the 80s, to microencapsulation experiments with antibiotics aboard space shuttle flights in the 90s. Building on those experiences from the early days, SurModics scientists have developed an extensive body of experience, know-how and patented capability in the field of microparticle drug delivery working with virtually all drug classes. Using this extensive technology base, SurModics can develop long-acting, injectable microparticles for systemic, local, and cellular delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients and vaccines. A variety of commercially viable microencapsulation processes are used at SurModics including: solvent extraction, solvent evaporation, phase separation, fluid bed coating, and spray drying. Based on the desired product specifications, the SurModics development team will select the appropriate microencapsulation process, as well as the formulation variables to achieve dose, duration and other product specifications.


One key microencapsulation process is SurModics’s patented continuous microencapsulation process

 

In addition to proprietary microencapsulation processes, SurModics Pharmaceuticals has over three decades of formulation design and know-how that is applied to the development of long-acting microparticle dosage forms for its clients. Often this development activity leads to new patents, particularly composition patents that extend product market protection. This know-how includes unmatched knowledge of biodegradable polymers and a multitude of approaches to produce microparticles that release active pharmaceutical ingredients from days to months at desired rates. Although these microparticles are typically administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously, they can also be administered by alternate routes of administration. For instance, they can be administered for local delivery such as to the eye, brain, and wounds. Moreover, if made less than 10 micron in diameter with the appropriate excipients, these microparticles are taken up by cells such as macrophages, dendrites, and astrocytes. Active ingredients microencapsulated at SurModics include small molecules, peptides, proteins and nucleic acids.

Highlights of SurModics Pharmaceuticals patented microparticle technologies includes:

  • Intracranial administration of microparticles that release dopamine and other neuroactive molecules. These microparticles stimulate nerve growth in the brain and have the potential to treat Parkinson’s disease and other CNS disorders.
  • Microparticles for treating or preventing intracellular infections like tuberculosis and HIV.
  • Commercial process for producing large quantities of microparticles.