Encapsulating Growth Factors (EGF) using Hydrogenated Lecithin in Aloe Cream
Question
I plan to formulate an aloe cream containing Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF, Recombinant). Can Hydrogenated Lecithin (95% Phosphatidylcholine) be effectively used to encapsulate the EGF to enhance its stability and delivery within the final cream base?
What specific technical considerations, such as necessary encapsulation techniques (e.g., sonication, solvent evaporation, or extrusion) and formula compatibility requirements, should be noted when incorporating this encapsulated active into the aloe cream?
Answer
Yes, Hydrogenated Lecithin (95% Phosphatidylcholine) (ID: 31225) is an excellent ingredient for encapsulating sensitive active ingredients like Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF, Recombinant) (ID: 8584).
Encapsulation Feasibility
- Lecithin's Function: Hydrogenated Lecithin, which is high-purity Phosphatidylcholine, is specifically used for phospholipid encapsulation (forming liposomes or nanosomes). This process is highly beneficial for growth factors (peptides/proteins) like EGF because it:
- Increases Stability: Protects the sensitive EGF molecule from degradation by enzymes, pH changes, or other ingredients in the cream base.
- Enhances Absorption: Improves the delivery and bioavailability of the EGF into the skin.
- EGF Stability: Growth factors are large, sensitive molecules that benefit significantly from encapsulation to maintain their activity and ensure they reach their target in the skin.
Important Technical Considerations
The encapsulation process must be performed before adding the encapsulated EGF to the final aloe cream base.
- Technique Required: The formation of stable liposomes requires specialized techniques such as sonication, solvent evaporation, or extrusion. The product description for Hydrogenated Lecithin explicitly states that the supplier cannot provide advice on these specific techniques, and the buyer must have the necessary knowledge and equipment to perform the encapsulation and test the entrapment efficiency.
- Formula Compatibility: Once encapsulated, the liposomes containing EGF must be incorporated into the aloe cream base. The final cream's pH and the presence of certain ingredients (e.g., high concentrations of alcohol, strong surfactants) can affect the stability of the liposome structure. A stable, gentle cream base (like an aloe cream) is generally suitable, but stability testing is always recommended.
- Co-Encapsulation Ingredient: The product description notes that Phosphatidylcholine is commonly used in conjunction with Cholesterol to help make the capsule walls stronger, more stable, and resistant to the environment, which can extend the shelf life of the encapsulated material.
