Abstract
The immunomodulatory, antiproliferative, and antiviral properties of interferons alpha (IFN-α) have made these cytokines attractive for numerous clinical applications. However, most of the current available IFN pharmaceutical dosage forms need to be injected frequently and may provoke adverse reactions in patients. This problem might be overcome by using biodegradable microspheres loaded with IFN. The encapsulation of IFN-α in microspheres and the current status of this technology are the main subjects reviewed here. To this end, we describe (i) the main methods and experimental parameters used to obtain IFN-loaded microspheres and (ii) characterization of these microspheres in terms of morphology, particle size, loading/encapsulation efficiency, residual water content, residual solvent content, release profile, and sterility. Also, we discuss both the characterization of the encapsulated IFN and the stabilization/protection of IFN during microencapsulation. Finally, a brief overview of preclinical and clinical studies using IFN-containing microspheres is given.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
