Multilayer Microcapsule Design
We co-develop multilayer microcapsule architectures tailored to the oxygen sensitivity profile of your NGP strain. Shell compositions are evaluated from food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade polymers with oxygen-protective barrier properties, including alginate, whey protein isolate, modified starches, and selected cellulosic polymers. Layer number, thickness, and cross-linking parameters are screened experimentally with the goal of improving oxygen protection while supporting downstream release performance.
Antioxidant System Screening and Integration
In addition to physical barrier layers, compatible antioxidant excipients can be screened and integrated into the core matrix or shell to help reduce oxidative stress on encapsulated cells. Candidate materials — such as ascorbic acid derivatives, cysteine, and selected antioxidant or reducing excipients — are evaluated for compatibility with your strain and intended application.
Storage Stability Assessment
We perform real-time and accelerated stability studies under predefined storage conditions, with viable count enumeration at scheduled intervals across relevant packaging configurations. Where appropriate, study designs can be aligned with commonly used stability frameworks for research and development purposes. Outputs include viable count trajectories and supporting data to guide shelf-life optimization decisions.
Acid and Bile Tolerance Evaluation
Encapsulation candidates are evaluated under simulated gastrointestinal conditions, including simulated gastric fluid and bile-containing intestinal media, to assess protection during upper GI transit. Viability of encapsulated versus free cells is compared at each stage, and capsule integrity is assessed by microscopy. Data generated helps characterize the extent of protection and improved viable cell recovery under these conditions.
Colonic Release Profiling
For NGPs targeting the colon, release behavior is an important evaluation criterion alongside protection. We assess microcapsule disintegration and viable cell release under simulated colonic conditions using pH- and/or enzyme-responsive in vitro release models. Release profiles are correlated with encapsulant composition to guide iterative formulation refinement toward desired release characteristics.
Excipient Compatibility and Process Window Definition
Not all excipients tolerated by conventional probiotics are safe for strict anaerobes. We run head-to-head excipient compatibility screens under anaerobic conditions, identifying materials that interact negatively with sensitive strains (e.g., through redox reactions or membrane destabilization). Outputs define a recommended excipient set and process window parameters — including temperature, shear, and dissolved oxygen limits — that development teams can use for process transfer or scale-up planning.
