Crystallized carbohydrate spheres as a slow release matrix for biologically active substances

Abstract

Described is a novel method of fabrication of crystallized carbohydrate spheres with entrapped substances where it is shown that entrapped peptide hormones such as insulin and interferon, enzymes such as plasmin and β-galactosidase and monoclonal antibodies retain their biological activity after release from the matrix. In vitro slow release of proteins over several weeks is achieved by erosion of the matrix consisting of carbohydrate polymers such as dextran, dextrins or low molecular weight carbohydrates such as glucose and maltose, all well known biodegradable and biocompatible matrix materials.