Stabilizing liposomes loaded with proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and microelements

Many protein-containing drugs have limited application in the prevention and treatment of diseases due to their instability in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, there is a need for complex liposomal drugs with stabilizing components that can enhance their therapeutic effect. Our objects of study included soy lecithin, egg albumin, immunoglobulin, insulin, chitosan, amino acids, tocopherol, ascorbic acid, riboflavin, zinc sulfate, and iron (III) chloride. The concentrations of nutrients were determined by the colorimetric and titrimetric methods. We also used the peroxide value and the dynamic light scattering method. Liposomes obtained by the injection method had a diameter of 4.7 ± 0.2 μm, which makes them suitable for oral drug administration. Protein incorporation at 98, 95, and 83% was achieved by 1.0 mg/mL insulin, 1.6 mg/mL globulin, and 30 mg/ mL albumin, respectively. The most optimal concentration of albumin in liposomes was 30 mg/mL. The highest degrees of incorporation of amino acids and their mixtures were 94–98 and 90%, respectively. Stabilizing liposomes with vitamins B2 and C, as well as zinc and iron, increased the liposomal incorporation of amino acid mixtures and ensured their release in the model gastrointestinal tract. The protein corona increased the release of target components in the small intestine and improved liposome stability during storage. Modifying the surface of liposomes with chitosan decreased the release of albumin in the oral cavity, stomach, and intestine. Complex liposomes proved to have better stability in the model gastrointestinal tract and during storage. The results obtained can be used to create complex nutriceuticals.