Sphingosomes for enhanced drug delivery
First Claim
1. A liposomal composition for delivery of a therapeutic compound to a mammalian host which comprises a liposome having one or more membranes which comprise sphingomyelin and cholesterol, a liposomal interior having an acidic pH which is less than that of the liposomal exterior, and a lipophilic therapeutic compound contained in said liposome for delivery to the host.
4 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Liposomal formulations having extended circulation time in vivo and increased drug retention are comprised of sphingomyelin and cholesterol and have an acidic intraliposomal pH. The formulations have enhanced stability and thus are used in methods which provide improved drug delivery and more effective treatment. The delivery of lipophilic drugs such as the vinca alkaloids, and particularly vincristine and vinblastine, to tumors is significantly improved.
230 Citations
15 Claims
- 1. A liposomal composition for delivery of a therapeutic compound to a mammalian host which comprises a liposome having one or more membranes which comprise sphingomyelin and cholesterol, a liposomal interior having an acidic pH which is less than that of the liposomal exterior, and a lipophilic therapeutic compound contained in said liposome for delivery to the host.
-
14. A liposome for delivery of a lipophilic therapeutic compound, produced by the process of:
-
forming a liposome from a mixture which comprises sphingomyelin and cholesterol, in a first buffered aqueous solution having an acidic pH greater than pH 2; and suspending the liposome in a second buffered solution having a pH which is greater than that of the first buffered aqueous solution, whereby a transmembrane pH gradient is formed which facilitates the transfer of the therapeutic compound to the liposome, wherein the interior of the liposome containing the therapeutic compound is from pH 2 to pH 6. - View Dependent Claims (15)
-
Specification