Controlled delivery of diphtheria toxoid using biodegradable poly(D, L-lactide) microcapsules

Abstract

Diphtheria toxoid, which is an important vaccine in the expanded program of immunization (EPI) in the developing countries, was microencapsulated using poly(D, L,-lactide) of 49,000 molecular weight and the in-water drying technique. The microcapsules were subjected to an in vitro antigen release study using a sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) developed in the laboratory. Antibody titers in immunized Balb/C mice were also determined using direct ELISA. The antibody units in the immunized group till day 75 were quite comparable to those in the group receiving conventional three-dose injection of diphtheria toxoid with calcium phosphate as an adjuvant. SEM photographs of the micro-capsules during in vitro degradation demonstrated the erosion kinetics of the polymer, leading to controlled release of the antigen.