Aerosolization of poly(sulfobetaine) microparticles that encapsulate therapeutics antibodies

Delivering protein through the respiratory system is a promising strategy for protein delivery targeting the lungs that can maximize the drug efficacy and minimize the systematic effects. In fact, there is only one inhalable protein therapy currently on the market, Pulmozyme® (DNase), for cystic fibrosis treatment, which was approved more than 30 years ago. Pulmonary protein delivery is mostly limited by the instability of protein, powder particle size restrictions, cytotoxicity, and immunogenicity of therapy and vectors. In this research, zwitterionic polymer-based low cytotoxicity microparticle, poly (sulfo betaine) (pSB) was synthesized, which can provide protection to proteins due to their dual charges. the pSB microparticle is aerosolizable and was confirmed. I also quantified the particle size, density, equilibrium water content, model drug loading and releasing. The combination of morphology, particle size, antibody loading capacity, high protein releasing ratio, protection provided for proteins, low cytotoxicity, and ease of aerosolization support the potential use of these particles for pulmonary delivery of protein therapeutics.