Nanoparticle Compositions for Hydrophobic Agent Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nanoparticle technologies for hydrophobic compounds face issues such as instability, uneven distribution, and poor bioavailability due to low water solubility, leading to ineffective delivery and stability concerns, especially in aqueous solutions and high-temperature conditions.
Innovation Solution
Development of nanoparticle compositions comprising a hydrophobic active agent, lipid source, surfactant, and gum, with specific weight ratios and water content, which are processed to create stable nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 25 nm to 200 nm, providing enhanced stability and bioavailability by modifying the mixture density and structure for improved dispersion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydrophobic compounds are used as pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals, then therapeutic effects can be achieved, but bioavailability is reduced due to low water solubility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and size parameters of the hydrophobic compound by formulating it into nanoparticles with specific size ranges (25-200 nm). This parameter change transforms the compound from a poorly soluble bulk material into a dispersed nanoparticle system with enhanced water solubility and bioavailability while maintaining therapeutic efficacy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates composite nanoparticle formulations combining hydrophobic active agents with hydrophilic carriers, surfactants, and stabilizing agents. This composite approach enables the hydrophobic compound to be dispersed in aqueous environments, resolving the solubility- efficacy contradiction
2Ease of operation
If current nanoparticle technology is used for delivery, then active ingredient delivery is enabled, but stability is insufficient leading to precipitation and uneven distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces surfactants and stabilizing agents as intermediary substances that mediate between the hydrophobic active ingredient and the aqueous environment. These intermediaries prevent nanoparticle aggregation and precipitation, ensuring stable distribution and effective delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs surfactant molecules forming flexible protective shells around the hydrophobic core of nanoparticles. These thin film layers provide steric and electrostatic stabilization, preventing aggregation and maintaining colloidal stability throughout the formulation
3Productivity
If nanoparticle formulations are created, then active ingredient delivery is achieved, but uneven distribution occurs causing nanoparticles to form layers or precipitate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes critical parameters including nanoparticle size (25-200 nm), surface charge, and composition ratios to achieve optimal dispersion characteristics. These parameter adjustments ensure uniform distribution and prevent sedimentation or layering, maintaining delivery efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs stability assessment methods to evaluate nanoparticle distribution and make iterative adjustments to formulation parameters. This feedback approach ensures optimal uniformity and prevents precipitation while maintaining effective delivery
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The nanoparticle compositions demonstrate increased stability over months, improved bioavailability, and enhanced delivery efficacy, including stability in hot aqueous liquids, with the ability to maintain particle size and active agent integrity, leading to more effective therapeutic outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
nanoparticle compositions comprising a hydrophobic active agent, lipid source, surfactant, and gum, with specific weight ratios and water content
Implementation Method 2
nanoparticle compositions comprising a hydrophobic active agent, lipid source, surfactant, and gum
Data Source
AI summary
Several embodiments pertain to nanoparticle-based compositions and their use in methods for the delivery of active agents to subjects and to products. In several embodiments, the compositions are stable for prolonged periods of time and under hot conditions and provide enhanced bioavailability and/or dispersibility.