Evaluating Liposome Stability in Gastric and Intestinal Environments

Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Lauren Sestito

College

Engineering

Discipline(s)

Bioengineering

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-25-2024

Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic infection prevalent in many tropical countries, poses a significant challenge to treat due to parasite residence within the lymphatic system. Many lymphatic filariasis drugs are small molecules, and inadvertently target the bloodstream rather than the lymphatic system where the parasite lives. Liposomes have emerged as a promising avenue for drug transportation, offering the potential for improved lymphatic uptake and multidrug loading. This requires orally administered liposomes to be stable throughout the digestive system until they reach the small intestine, where they will be absorbed by lacteals and access the lymphatic system. Successful delivery to the small intestine requires the structural integrity of the liposomes to prevent early drug release into the digestive system. The objective of this project was to create a realistic in vitro model of the gastric and intestinal digestive systems to test the size and stability of the phosphatidylcholine liposomes in each environment. This information can then be applied to modify the contents of the liposomal bilayer to alter the rigidity and stability of the liposome. Findings will guide improvements to the liposome structure for better stability, aiding targeted drug delivery to the lymphatic system.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Makayla is a sophomore bioengineering student at Valparaiso University. Her research interests include nanomaterials and tissue engineering.

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