Patent ID: 6248321
Filing Date: 2001-06-19
Classification: A01N,C12N,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for encapsulation of microparticles in polymer matrix capsules having a diameter of about 10 .mu.m to about 400 .mu.m, comprising:(i) providing an aqueous suspension of the microparticles and a polymer matrix precursor,(ii) adding a non-cytotoxic, hydrophobic dispersion medium containing an emulsifier, to form an aqueous dispersion,(iii) agitating vigorously to form a stable emulsion of individual microscopic globules containing a microparticle and the polymer matrix precursor suspended therein, and(iv) adding the stable emulsion to an aqueous solution containing a polymerizing agent, to polymerize and precipitate the globules, to form microparticles encapsulated in polymer matrix capsules having said diameter and being of a teardrop shape baying a length of 40-200% longer than its diameter, wherein precipitation of the globules is regulated by substantially matching the Specific Gravity of the hydrophobic dispersion medium and the aqueous suspension.