Multilayer Alginate Microcapsules For Live Cell Microencapsulation; Is There Any Preference For Selecting Cationic Polymers?

Abstract

Since 1980 after introducing the concept of live cell encapsulation by Lim et al., this technology has received enormous attention. Several studies have been conducted to improve this technique; different polymers, either natural or synthetic, have been used as microcapsules` making materials and different substances as coating layers. Literature review leads us to the conclusion that alginate (Alg) multilayer microcapsules and, in particular, alginate-poly l-lysine (PLL)-alginate (APA) are the most used structures for live cell encapsulation. Although, disadvantages of PLL (e.g., weak mechanical strength and low biocompatibility) made researchers work on other cationic polymers to find an alternative. This review aims to discuss more popularly suggested cationic polymers such as poly l-ornithine (PLO), chitosan, etc. As alternatives for PLL and, more importantly, we want to take a closer look to see which one of these systems are closer to clinical applications.

Keywords: Alginate; Cell microencapsulation; Cellulose sulfate; Multilayer microcapsules; Poly l-lysine; Poly l-ornithine.

Figure 1

Structure of alginic acid and egg-box model (10) .