Nano- and Microencapsulation Breakthroughs
Imagine a microscopic suit of armor protecting a vital medicine as it journeys through your body, shielding it from destructive acids and enzymes until it reaches exactly the right location at the perfect time to release its healing payload.
Encapsulation shields sensitive substances like proteins, peptides, and probiotics from degradation by stomach acid, enzymes, or environmental factors 3 .
Functionalized capsules can be designed to accumulate preferentially in specific tissues, such as tumors or inflamed areas 3 .
Particles between 1-1000 micrometers 3
Specifically spherical particles 3
Core material surrounded by a distinct shell 3
Single core surrounded by shell
Multiple cores within one shell
Active ingredient dispersed throughout a polymer 3
Researchers at the University of Navarra developed zein nanoparticles coated with a polymer conjugate of Gantrez® and thiamine to enhance intestinal absorption of insulin 4 .
Brazilian researchers created a microagglomerate powder of budesonide-loaded lipid-core nanocapsules with improved efficacy in asthmatic mice 4 .
Researchers developed mucoadhesive chitosan-PLGA nanoparticles designed to co-deliver therapeutics through nasal administration, bypassing the blood-brain barrier 4 .
"Plants also have exosomes. I believe these could be a beautiful alternative to some of the formulation issues because they regulate inflammation, they can cross talk between species so seem to be good for human biology." — Professor Ennio Tasciotti 9
Regulate triglyceride levels and demonstrate therapeutic potential 9 .
Reduce inflammation in colitis models with excellent biocompatibility 9 .
Lower Toxicity
Reduced Immunogenicity
Excellent Biocompatibility
Sustainable Source
| Parameter | Result | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Particle size | 1-5 μm | Ideal for alveolar deposition |
| Drug loading | High for all three drugs | Reduced frequency of administration |
| Release profile | Sustained over 24 hours | Maintains therapeutic concentrations |
| Aerodynamic properties | Suitable for inhalation | Ensures efficient lung delivery |
Based on in vitro release data for rifampicin, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide 4
AI technologies can predict optimal formulations and monitor manufacturing processes in real-time 7 .
Green chemistry principles and biodegradable materials from renewable resources 9 .
Tailoring release profiles to individual patient needs and biological triggers 7 .
Co-encapsulating multiple active ingredients to address complex diseases 4 .
The 23rd International Symposium on Microencapsulation is scheduled for September 2025 in Ferrara, Italy 1 .
The advances in nano- and microencapsulation science represent more than incremental improvements—they signal a transformation in how we approach medical treatment. From inhaling complex tuberculosis regimens instead of enduring painful injections, to using plant-derived exosomes as natural delivery systems, these technologies are making therapies more targeted, more efficient, and more patient-friendly.
"The beauty is all of these can be modeled and programmed according to whatever release you want, whether it's hours, days, weeks—we go all the way to months." — Professor Tasciotti 9
As these tiny treasure chests continue to evolve, they promise to unlock new possibilities in medicine, nutrition, and beyond—proving that sometimes, the smallest packages do indeed contain the greatest gifts.