Preparation and Characterization of Liposomes Entrapping Allergenic Proteins

This work presents results of the preparation and characterization of small unilamellar liposomes for entrapping allergenic proteins extracted from the biomass of Dreschlera (Helminthosporium) monoceras cultivated by solid fermentation. Protein was entrapped by the dehydration-rehydration method, using lyophilization of preformed liposomes in order to prevent their degradation The reconstitution of lyophilized liposomes by hydration, their capacity for entrapping allergenic proteins and their stability in plasma were analyzed. Liposomes were reconstituted in size by including trehalose sugar in the formulation. The protection of the liposomal membrane by trehalose was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. The reconstituted membrane had an osmotic behavior similar to that of nondehydrated ones. Allergenic proteins ranging in molecular weight from 14 to 170 kDa were entrapped in the lipid matrix with an efficiency of approximately 80%. These results are promising for producing liposomes by entrapping allergenic proteins from mold extracts, which can be useful for allergy therapy.