Preparation of liposomes via 3D printed microfluidics arrays

Abstract

Microfluidics is a technology that allows handling small volumes and mixing them in narrow channels. In this study, we used three different 3D printed microfluidics arrays to prepare liposomes by mixing an aqueous phase with an organic phase made of S75 and Cholesterol at ratios of 8:2 and 6:4 respectively. Liposomes were collected at Total Flow Rates of 3, 5 and 10 ml/min.All arrays produced liposomes varying from 40 to 70 nm, the particle size decreases with increasing TFR from 3 to 10 ml/min for all arrays and both FRRs. Zeta values varies from -40.5 to -86.6 mV indicating excellent stability for all nano dispersions. After 4 weeks storage at 4°C, a slight increase in the particle size was observed for both FRRs. Our study demonstrates the successful use of 3D printed microfluidic arrays for the design and development of liposomes.