Development and Evaluation of a Phospholipid-sterol-protein Membrane Resembling System

Abstract

The development and evaluation of a phospholipid-sterol-protein membrane resembling system containing beta-lactoglobulin (beta-Lg) has been studied. Liposomes have been successfully employed for the protection, controlled release and site specific delivery of sensitive molecules, such as enzymes and vitamins. beta-Lg (the major whey protein of ruminant species) was selected as model protein due to its ability to bind lipophilic molecules (i.e. phospholipids). Different techniques were used for the encapsulation studies (Differential Scanning Calorimetry, SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy). Quantitation of encapsulation was estimated by Fluorescence spectroscopy. The stability study was carried out by turbidity measurements. The shape and size of the formulations prepared were assessed by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Dynamic Light Scattering. The developed system revealed a high encapsulation percentage of beta-Lg, homogeneous and small shape and a very promising stability behavior. The characteristics obtained suggested that it is a very promising delivery system.