Method of treatment using nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer

Information

  • Patent Grant
  • 8652464
  • Patent Number
    8,652,464
  • Date Filed
    Tuesday, December 4, 2012
    11 years ago
  • Date Issued
    Tuesday, February 18, 2014
    10 years ago
Abstract
The present invention is directed to nanoparticulate active agent compositions comprising lysozyme as a surface stabilizer. Also encompassed by the invention are pharmaceutical compositions comprising a nanoparticulate active agent composition of the invention and methods of making and using such nanoparticulate and pharmaceutical compositions.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to nanoparticulate formulations of an active agent having lysozyme adsorbed onto or associated with the surface of the agent as a surface stabilizer, and methods of making and using such compositions.


BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Background Regarding Nanoparticulate Compositions


Nanoparticulate compositions, first described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,684 (“the '684 patent”), are particles consisting of a poorly soluble therapeutic or diagnostic agent having adsorbed onto, or associated with, the surface thereof a non-crosslinked surface stabilizer. The '684 patent describes the use of a variety of surface stabilizers for nanoparticulate compositions. The use of a lysozyme as a surface stabilizer for nanoparticulate compositions, or any other component of such compositions, is not described by the '684 patent.


The '684 patent describes a method of screening active agents to identify useful surface stabilizers that enable the production of a nanoparticulate composition. Not all surface stabilizers will function to produce a stable, non-agglomerated nanoparticulate composition for all active agents. Moreover, known surface stabilizers may be unable to produce a stable, non-agglomerated nanoparticulate composition for certain active agents. Thus, there is a need in the art to identify new surface stabilizers useful in making nanoparticulate compositions. Additionally, such new surface stabilizers may have superior properties over prior known surface stabilizers.


Methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,518,187 and 5,862,999, both for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,388, for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,118 for “Process of Preparing Therapeutic Compositions Containing Nanoparticles.”


Nanoparticulate compositions are also described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,298,262 for “Use of Ionic Cloud Point Modifiers to Prevent Particle Aggregation During Sterilization;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,401 for “Method to Reduce Particle Size Growth During Lyophilization;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,318,767 for “X-Ray Contrast Compositions Useful in Medical Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,326,552 for “Novel Formulation For Nanoparticulate X-Ray Blood Pool Contrast Agents Using High Molecular Weight Non-ionic Surfactants;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,404 for “Method of X-Ray Imaging Using Iodinated Aromatic Propanedioates;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,336,507 for “Use of Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Nanoparticle Aggregation;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,340,564 for “Formulations Comprising Olin 10-G to Prevent Particle Aggregation and Increase Stability;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,702 for “Use of Non-Ionic Cloud Point Modifiers to Minimize Nanoparticulate Aggregation During Sterilization;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,349,957 for “Preparation and Magnetic Properties of Very Small Magnetic-Dextran Particles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,352,459 for “Use of Purified Surface Modifiers to Prevent Particle Aggregation During Sterilization;” U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,399,363 and 5,494,683, both for “Surface Modified Anticancer Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,401,492 for “Water Insoluble Non-Magnetic Manganese Particles as Magnetic Resonance Enhancement Agents;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,824 for “Use of Tyloxapol as a Nanoparticulate Stabilizer;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,447,710 for “Method for Making Nanoparticulate X-Ray Blood Pool Contrast Agents Using High Molecular Weight Non-ionic Surfactants;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,451,393 for “X-Ray Contrast Compositions Useful in Medical Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,466,440 for “Formulations of Oral Gastrointestinal Diagnostic X-Ray Contrast Agents in Combination with Pharmaceutically Acceptable Clays;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,583 for “Method of Preparing Nanoparticle Compositions Containing Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Aggregation;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,472,683 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Mixed Carbamic Anhydrides as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,500,204 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Dimers as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,518,738 for “Nanoparticulate NSAID Formulations;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,521,218 for “Nanoparticulate Iododipamide Derivatives for Use as X-Ray Contrast Agents;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,525,328 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Diatrizoxy Ester X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,133 for “Process of Preparing X-Ray Contrast Compositions Containing Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,552,160 for “Surface Modified NSAID Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,560,931 for “Formulations of Compounds as Nanoparticulate Dispersions in Digestible Oils or Fatty Acids;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,565,188 for “Polyalkylene Block Copolymers as Surface Modifiers for Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,448 for “Sulfated Non-ionic Block Copolymer Surfactant as Stabilizer Coatings for Nanoparticle Compositions;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,571,536 for “Formulations of Compounds as Nanoparticulate Dispersions in Digestible Oils or Fatty Acids;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,573,749 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Mixed Carboxylic Anydrides as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,573,750 for “Diagnostic Imaging X-Ray Contrast Agents;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,573,783 for “Redispersible Nanoparticulate Film Matrices With Protective Overcoats;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,580,579 for “Site-specific Adhesion Within the GI Tract Using Nanoparticles Stabilized by High Molecular Weight, Linear Poly(ethylene Oxide) Polymers;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,585,108 for “Formulations of Oral Gastrointestinal Therapeutic Agents in Combination with Pharmaceutically Acceptable Clays;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,143 for “Butylene Oxide-Ethylene Oxide Block Copolymers Surfactants as Stabilizer Coatings for Nanoparticulate Compositions;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,591,456 for “Milled Naproxen with Hydroxypropyl Cellulose as Dispersion Stabilizer;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,657 for “Novel Barium Salt Formulations Stabilized by Non-ionic and Anionic Stabilizers;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,622,938 for “Sugar Based Surfactant for Nanocrystals;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,981 for “Improved Formulations of Oral Gastrointestinal Diagnostic X-Ray Contrast Agents and Oral Gastrointestinal Therapeutic Agents;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,643,552 for “Nanoparticulate Diagnostic Mixed Carbonic Anhydrides as X-Ray Contrast Agents for Blood Pool and Lymphatic System Imaging;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,388 for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,919 for “Nanoparticles Containing the R(−)Enantiomer of Ibuprofen;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,747,001 for “Aerosols Containing Beclomethasone Nanoparticle Dispersions;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,834,025 for “Reduction of Intravenously Administered Nanoparticulate Formulation Induced Adverse Physiological Reactions;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,829 “Nanocrystalline Formulations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitors Using Cellulosic Surface Stabilizers;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,068,858 for “Methods of Making Nanocrystalline Formulations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitors Using Cellulosic Surface Stabilizers;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,153,225 for “Injectable Formulations of Nanoparticulate Naproxen;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,506 for “New Solid Dose Form of Nanoparticulate Naproxen;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,221,400 for “Methods of Treating Mammals Using Nanocrystalline Formulations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Protease Inhibitors;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,922 for “Nebulized Aerosols Containing Nanoparticle Dispersions;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,267,989 for “Methods for Preventing Crystal Growth and Particle Aggregation in Nanoparticle Compositions;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,270,806 for “Use of PEG-Derivatized Lipids as Surface Stabilizers for Nanoparticulate Compositions;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,316,029 for “Rapidly Disintegrating Solid Oral Dosage Form,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,375,986 for “Solid Dose Nanoparticulate Compositions Comprising a Synergistic Combination of a Polymeric Surface Stabilizer and Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,814 for “Bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions having cationic surface stabilizers;” U.S. Pat. No. 6,431,478 for “Small Scale Mill;” and U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,381 for “Methods for targeting drug delivery to the upper and/or lower gastrointestinal tract,” all of which are specifically incorporated by reference. In addition, U.S. Patent Application No. 20020012675 A1, published on Jan. 31, 2002, for “Controlled Release Nanoparticulate Compositions,” describes nanoparticulate compositions, and is specifically incorporated by reference.


Amorphous small particle compositions are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,783,484 for “Particulate Composition and Use Thereof as Antimicrobial Agent;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,826,689 for “Method for Making Uniformly Sized Particles from Water-Insoluble Organic Compounds;” U.S. Pat. No. 4,997,454 for “Method for Making Uniformly-Sized Particles From Insoluble Compounds;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,741,522 for “Ultrasmall, Non-aggregated Porous Particles of Uniform Size for Entrapping Gas Bubbles Within and Methods;” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,776,496, for “Ultrasmall Porous Particles for Enhancing Ultrasound Back Scatter.”


B. Background Regarding the Use of Lysozyme in Pharmaceutical Compositions


Lysozyme, also known as muramidase, N-acetylmuramylhydrolase, and globulin G1, has a molecular weight of about 14,400. It is a mucolytic enzyme with antibiotic properties first discovered by A. Fleming, Proc. Roy. Soc. London, 93B:306 (1922). Lysozyme is found in tears, nasal mucus, milk, saliva blood serum, a great number of tissues and secretions of different animals, vertebrates and invertebrates, egg white, some molds, and in the latex of different plants.


The structure of lysozyme consists of a single polypeptide linked by four disulfide bridges. It lyses bacterial cell wall polysaccharides by hydrolyzing the 1,4-β-linkages between N-acetylmuramic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine residues.


Although lysozyme has antibiotic properties, it is a large molecule that is not particularly useful as a drug. It can be applied topically, but cannot rid the entire body of disease because it is too large to travel between cells.


A number of U.S. patents describe the use of lysozyme as an active ingredient in pharmaceutical compositions. See e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,096,307 for “Compositions for Immunostimulation Containing Echinacea Angustofolia, Bromelain, and Lysozyme,” U.S. Pat. No. 6,239,088 for “Nonirritating Cleansing Composition,” U.S. Pat. No. 5,458,876 for “Control of Microbial Growth with Antibiotic/lysozyme Formulations,” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,041,236 for “Antimicrobial Methods and Compositions Employing Certain Lysozymes and Endoglycosidases.”


There is a need in the art for new surface stabilizers useful in preparing nanoparticulate compositions of active agents. The present invention satisfies this need.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to nanoparticulate compositions comprising a poorly soluble active agent and lysozyme as a surface stabilizer adsorbed on to, or associated with, the surface of the active agent.


Another aspect of the invention is directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a nanoparticulate composition of the invention. The pharmaceutical compositions preferably comprise a poorly soluble active agent, lysozyme, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as well as any desired excipients.


In yet another embodiment, the invention is directed to bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions comprising lysozyme. Such compositions can coat the gut, or the desired site of application, and be retained for a period of time, thereby increasing the efficacy of the active agent as well as eliminating or decreasing the frequency of dosing.


This invention further discloses a method of making a nanoparticulate composition having a lysozyme surface stabilizer adsorbed on or associated with the surface of the active agent. Such a method comprises contacting a poorly soluble nanoparticulate active agent with lysozyme for a time and under conditions sufficient to provide a nanoparticle/lysozyme composition. The lysozyme surface stabilizer can be contacted with the active agent either before, during, or after size reduction of the active agent.


The present invention is further directed to a method of treatment comprising administering to a mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a nanoparticulate active agent/lysozyme composition according to the invention.


Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. Other objects, advantages, and novel features will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the invention.







DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to compositions comprising nanoparticulate active agents having lysozyme as a surface stabilizer adsorbed on or associated with the surface thereof, and methods of making and using such nanoparticulate compositions.


As taught in the '684 patent, not every combination of surface stabilizer and active agent will result in a stable nanoparticulate composition. The discovery of the present invention is even more surprising as other protein surface stabilizers were found to be ineffective in attempts to make nanoparticulate compositions of varying drug classes and structures. Such ineffective protein stabilizers include fibrinogen, γ-globulin, albumin, and casein.


Moreover, an unexpected benefit of the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention is that the compositions are likely to exhibit bioadhesive properties. This is because lysozyme has a high isoelectric point (pI=11.35), which will likely result in stable nanoparticulate compositions exhibiting relatively large, positive zeta potentials. To increase the bioadhesive properties of a nanoparticulate composition, one or more cationic surface stabilizers can be utilized.


Bioadhesive formulations of nanoparticulate active agents comprising lysozyme exhibit exceptional bioadhesion to biological surfaces, such as mucous, skin, etc. The term bioadhesion refers to any attractive interaction between two biological surfaces or between a biological and a synthetic surface. In the case of bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions, the term bioadhesion is used to describe the adhesion between the nanoparticulate compositions and a biological substrate (i.e. gastrointestinal mucin, lung tissue, nasal mucosa, etc.). See e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,814 for “Bioadhesive Nanoparticulate Compositions Having Cationic Surface Stabilizers,” which is specifically incorporated by reference. There are basically two mechanisms which may be responsible for this bioadhesion phenomena: mechanical or physical interactions and chemical interactions. The first of these, mechanical or physical mechanisms, involves the physical interlocking or interpenetration between a bioadhesive entity and the receptor tissue, resulting from a good wetting of the bioadhesive surface, swelling of the bioadhesive polymer, penetration of the bioadhesive entity into a crevice of the tissue surface, or interpenetration of bioadhesive composition chains with those of the mucous or other such related tissues. The second possible mechanism of bioadhesion incorporates forces such as ionic attraction, dipolar forces, van der Waals interactions, and hydrogen bonds. It is this form of bioadhesion which is primarily responsible for the bioadhesive properties of the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention. However, physical and mechanical interactions may also play a secondary role in the bioadhesion of such nanoparticulate compositions.


The bioadhesive nanoparticulate active agent compositions of the invention are useful in any situation in which it is desirable to apply the compositions to a biological surface. The bioadhesive nanoparticulate active agent compositions of the invention coat the targeted surface in a continuous and uniform film which is invisible to the naked human eye.


In addition, a bioadhesive formulation slows the transit of the formulation, and some active agent particles would also most likely adhere to other tissue than the mucous cells and therefore give a prolonged exposure to the active agent.


The adhesion exhibited by the inventive compositions means that nanoparticulate active agent particles are not easily washed off, rubbed off, or otherwise removed from the biological surface for an extended period of time. The period of time in which a biological cell surface is replaced is the factor that limits retention of the bioadhesive nanoparticulate active agent particles to that biological surface. For example, skin cells are replaced every 24-48 hours. Thus, the nanoparticulate active agent composition would have to be reapplied to the skin every 48 hours. Mucous cells shed and are replaced about every 5-6 hours.


The present invention is described herein using several definitions, as set forth below and throughout the application.


As used herein, “about” will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art and will vary to some extent on the context in which it is used. If there are uses of the term which are not clear to persons of ordinary skill in the art given the context in which it is used, “about” will mean up to plus or minus 10% of the particular term.


As used herein with reference to stable drug particles, ‘stable’ means that drug particles do not appreciably flocculate or agglomerate due to interparticle attractive forces or otherwise increase in particle size.


‘Therapeutically effective amount’ as used herein with respect to a drug dosage, shall mean that dosage that provides the specific pharmacological response for which the drug is administered in a significant number of subjects in need of such treatment. It is emphasized that ‘therapeutically effective amount,’ administered to a particular subject in a particular instance will not always be effective in treating the diseases described herein, even though such dosage is deemed a ‘therapeutically effective amount’ by those skilled in the art. It is to be further understood that drug dosages are, in particular instances, measured as oral dosages, or with reference to drug levels as measured in blood.


A. Compositions


The compositions of the invention comprise a nanoparticulate active agent and lysozyme as a surface stabilizer adsorbed to or associated with the surface of the active agent. In addition, the compositions can comprise one or more secondary surface stabilizers. Surface stabilizers useful herein physically adhere to the surface of the nanoparticulate active agent but do not chemically react with the active agent or itself. Individually molecules of the surface stabilizer are essentially free of intermolecular cross-linkages.


The present invention also includes nanoparticulate compositions having lysozyme as a stabilizer adsorbed on or associated with the surface thereof, formulated into compositions together with one or more non-toxic physiologically acceptable carriers, adjuvants, or vehicles, collectively referred to as carriers. The compositions can be formulated for parenteral injection, oral administration in solid, liquid, or aerosol form, rectal or topical administration, and the like.


1. Active Agent Particles


The nanoparticles of the invention comprise an active, therapeutic, or diagnostic agent, collectively referred to as a “drug.” A therapeutic agent can be a pharmaceutical agent, including biologics such as proteins, peptides, and nucleotides, or a diagnostic agent, such as a contrast agent, including x-ray contrast agents. The active agent exists either as a discrete, crystalline phase, an amorphous phase, a semi-amorphous phase, a semi-crystalline phase, or mixtures thereof. The crystalline phase differs from a non-crystalline or amorphous phase which results from precipitation techniques, such as those described in EP Patent No. 275,796. Two or more active agents can be used in combination.


The invention can be practiced with a wide variety of active agents. The active agent is preferably present in an essentially pure form, is poorly soluble, and is dispersible in at least one liquid dispersion medium. By “poorly soluble” it is meant that the active agent has a solubility in the liquid dispersion medium of less than about 10 mg/mL, and preferably of less than about 1 mg/mL. Useful liquid dispersion mediums include, but are not limited to, water, aqueous salt solutions, safflower oil, and solvents such as ethanol, t-butanol, hexane, and glycol.


a. Active Agents Generally


The active agent can be selected from a variety of known classes of drugs, including, for example, proteins, peptides, nucleotides, anti-obesity drugs, nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, carotenoids, corticosteroids, elastase inhibitors, anti-fungals, oncology therapies, anti-emetics, analgesics, cardiovascular agents, anti-inflammatory agents, anthelmintics, anti-arrhythmic agents, antibiotics (including penicillins), anticoagulants, antidepressants, antidiabetic agents, antiepileptics, antihistamines, antihypertensive agents, antimuscarinic agents, antimycobacterial agents, antineoplastic agents, immunosuppressants, antithyroid agents, antiviral agents, anxiolytic sedatives (hypnotics and neuroleptics), astringents, beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents, blood products and substitutes, cardiac inotropic agents, contrast media, corticosteroids, cough suppressants (expectorants and mucolytics), diagnostic agents, diagnostic imaging agents, diuretics, dopaminergics (antiparkinsonian agents), haemostatics, immunological agents, lipid regulating agents, muscle relaxants, parasympathomimetics, parathyroid calcitonin and biphosphonates, prostaglandins, radio-pharmaceuticals, sex hormones (including steroids), anti-allergic agents, stimulants and anoretics, sympathomimetics, thyroid agents, vasodilators, and xanthines.


Exemplary nutraceuticals and dietary supplements are disclosed, for example, in Roberts et al., Nutraceuticals: The Complete Encyclopedia of Supplements, Herbs, Vitamins, and Healing Foods (American Nutraceutical Association, 2001), which is specifically incorporated by reference. A nutraceutical or dietary supplement, also known as phytochemicals or functional foods, is generally any one of a class of dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbs, or healing foods that have medical or pharmaceutical effects on the body. Exemplary nutraceuticals or dietary supplements include, but are not limited to, lutein, folic acid, fatty acids (e.g., DHA and ARA), fruit and vegetable extracts, vitamin and mineral supplements, phosphatidylserine, lipoic acid, melatonin, glucosamine/chondroitin, Aloe Vera, Guggul, glutamine, amino acids (e.g., iso-leucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine), green tea, lycopene, whole foods, food additives, herbs, phytonutrients, antioxidants, flavonoid constituents of fruits, evening primrose oil, flax seeds, fish and marine animal oils, and probiotics. Nutraceuticals and dietary supplements also include bio-engineered foods genetically engineered to have a desired property, also known as “pharmafoods.”


Active agents to be administered in an aerosol formulation are preferably selected from the group consisting of proteins, peptide, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, elastase inhibitors, analgesics, anti-fungals, cystic-fibrosis therapies, asthma therapies, emphysema therapies, respiratory distress syndrome therapies, chronic bronchitis therapies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease therapies, organ-transplant rejection therapies, therapies for tuberculosis and other infections of the lung, fungal infection therapies, respiratory illness therapies associated with acquired immune deficiency syndrome, an oncology drug, an anti-emetic, an analgesic, and a cardiovascular agent.


A description of these classes of active agents and a listing of species within each class can be found in Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, Twenty-ninth Edition (The Pharmaceutical Press, London, 1989), specifically incorporated by reference. The active agents are commercially available and/or can be prepared by techniques known in the art.


b. Active Agents Useful in Dermal Applications


The active agents according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, active agents which can be used in dermal applications, e.g., sunscreens, cosmetics, topical application of pharmaceuticals to the dermis (acne medication, anti-wrinkle drugs, such as alpha-hydroxy formulations), nail polish, moisturizers, deodorant, etc.


Cosmetic compositions are generally defined as compositions suitable for application to the human body. Cosmetic compositions such as creams and lotions are used to moisturize the skin and keep it in a smooth, supple condition. Pigmented cosmetic compositions, such as makeup, blush, lipstick, and eye shadow, are used to color the skin and lips. Since color is one of the most important reasons for wearing cosmetics, color-containing cosmetics must be carefully formulated to provide maximum wear and effect.


One of the long standing problems with pigmented cosmetic compositions, such as face makeup, lipstick, mascara, and the like, is the tendency of the cosmetic to blot or transfer from the skin or lashes onto other surfaces, such as glassware, silverware, or clothing. This blotting not only creates soiling but it also forces the cosmetic user to reapply cosmetic at fairly short intervals.


Traditional pigmented cosmetic compositions are either water and oil emulsions containing pigments, or they are anhydrous systems containing waxes, oils, and pigments. These formulations are applied and blended into the skin to provide color and to correct skin topography to provide an even, smooth appearance. The films are simply deposited on the surface of the skin and if touched with fingers the product may transfer or become blotchy and uneven. Perspiration or sebum will break through the film and cause running or smearing. If skin comes into contact with clothing, the clothing may become soiled.


Other areas which benefit from the present invention include coloring agents, flavors, and fragrances. Coloring agents or pigments are used in cosmetic applications as well as in fabric applications. Suitable pigments can be inorganic and/or organic. Also included within the term pigment are materials having a low color or luster, such as matte finishing agents, and also light scattering agents. Examples of suitable pigments are iron oxides, acylglutamate iron oxides, ultramarine blue, D&C dyes, carmine, and mixtures thereof. Depending upon the type of cosmetic composition, e.g., foundation or blusher, a mixture of pigments will normally be used.


Bioadhesive nanoparticulate cosmetic compositions satisfy a long-felt need for cosmetic compositions that strongly adhere to the biological surface to which they are applied.


Fragrances and odiferous compounds are also suitable for use in the present inventive compositions. Bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions comprising a fragrance or odiferous compound as an active agent could provide prolonged sensory stimulation following application; i.e., for up to 48 hours following application to the skin.


c. Active Agents Useful in Mucous Applications


Exemplary active agents to be applied to mucous include dental applications, such as oral bioadhesive nanoparticulate lidocain formulations, bioadhesive nanoparticulate fluoride treatments, application to the lungs, throat, GIT, application to wounds, etc. Also included is application to the throat using a liquid containing a bioadhesive nanoparticulate formulation containing, for example, menthol or other numbing compound for treatment of coughs or sore throats. The stomach and GIT can also be treated using bioadhesive formulations. This is particularly useful for treatment of diseases associated with the mucous of the gastrointestinal tract, such as Crohn's Disease. Other pharmaceutical therapeutic methodologies include oral dosing, nasal administration, vaginal administration, ocular administration, colonic, and subcutaneous administration.


The compositions of the invention also encompass food products. For example, spice, oleoresin, flavor oil, color, or chemicals are often added during food processing to produce the desirable flavors, taste, and appearance. These agents can be included in a bioadhesive nanoparticulate composition of the present invention for increased adhesion to biological surfaces. Bioadhesive nanoparticulate flavoring agents could be used in products such as gums to produce prolonged flavor.


d. Active Agents Useful in Hair Applications


Biological substrates such as the hair are also encompassed by the scope of the invention. Bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions can be used in hair conditioner formulations, hair dyes, hair sprays, hair cosmetics, hair cleansers, depilatories, etc.


e. Active Agents Useful in Plant Tissue Applications


Yet another area of applicability of the present invention includes bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions that can be applied to plant tissue. Because of the difficulty in solubilizing some agricultural agents (i.e., some agricultural agents are applied as insoluble powders), the present invention provides a superior application method for plants as compared to prior art plant application methods.


Bioadhesive nanoparticulate compositions can be used for applications of pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers, etc.—any substance to be applied to the surface of a plant. All plants, such as grass, trees, commercial farm crops (such as corn, soybeans, cotton, vegetables, fruit, etc), weeds, etc., are encompassed by the scope of this invention.


In one embodiment of the invention, the active agent of the bioadhesive nanoparticulate composition is an insecticidal ingredient applied to seeds, plants, trees, harvested crops, soil, and the like. The insecticide ingredient can be selected from a wide variety of organic compounds or mixtures which are known and used in agriculture and horticulture applications, such as those listed in W. T. Thomson, Agricultural Chemicals, Book I, Insecticides (Thomson Publications, Fresno, Calif. 1989).


The general categories of insecticidal-active organic compounds include chlorinated hydrocarbon derivatives, phosphorated derivatives, pyrethroids, acylureas, and the like. Chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticides usually act as stomach and contact poisons affecting the nervous system. They are persistent in the environment and tend to accumulate in animal fatty tissue, as exemplified by DDT and chlordane.


Illustrative of other insecticidal compounds are chlorfluazuron, chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos methyl, bromophos, diazinon, malathion, trichlorfon, dimethoate, phorate, lindane, toxaphene, diflubenuron, methomyl, propoxur, carbaryl, cyhexatin, cypermethrin, permethrin, fenvalerate, dicofol, tetradifon, propargite, and the like. Other examples of insecticides include the pyrethroid insecticides, such a Fenvalerate™ [α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3methylvalerate] and Pyrethroid™ [cyano(4-fluoro-3-phenoxyphenylmethyl-3-(2,2-dichloroethenyl)-2,2-dimethyl cyclopropanecarboxylate]; organophosphorus insecticides, such as DDVP™ (2,2-dichlorovinyldimethyl phosphate), Sumithion™ (dimethyl-4-nitro-m-tolylphosphorothionate), Malathone™ {S-[1,2-bis(ethoxycarbonyl)ethyl]dimethyl-phosphorothiolthionate}, Dimethoate[dimethyl-S—(N-methylcarbamoylmethyl)-phosphorothios thionate), Elsan™ {S-[.alpha.-(ethoxycarbonyl)benzyl]dimethylphosphorothiol thionate), and Baycid™ [O,O-dimethyl-O-(3-methyl-4methylmercaptophenyl)thiophosphate]; carbamate; insecticides such as Bassa™ (O-butylphenyl methylcarbamate), MTMC™ (m-tolyl methylcarbamate), Meobal™ (3,4-dimethylphenyl-N-methylcarbamate), and NAC™ (1-naphthyl-N-methylcarbamate); as well as Methomyl™ {methyl-N[(methylcarbamoyl)-oxy]thioacetimide}, and Cartap™ {1,3-bis(carbamolythio)-2-(N,N-dimethylamino)propane hydrochloride}.


Examples of other agricultural agents include acaricides such as, but not limited to, Smite™ {2-[2-(p-tert-butylphenoxy)isopropoxy]isopropyl-2-chloroethyl sulfide}, Acricid™ (2,4-dinitro-6-sec-butylphenyl dimethylacrylate), Chlormit™ (isopropyl 4,4-dichlorobenzylate), Acar™ (ethyl 4,4-dichlorobenzylate), Kelthane™ [1,1-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-2,2,2-trichloroethanol], Citrazon™ (ethyl O-benzoyl-3-chloro-2,6-dimethoxybenzohydroxymate), Plictran™ (tricyclohexyltin hydroxide), and Omite™ [2-(p-tert-butylphenoxy)cyclohexyl-2-propinyl sulfite].


Examples of germicides include organosulfur germicides, such as Dithane™ (zinc ethylenebisdithiocarbamate), Maneo™ (manganese ethylenebis-dithiocarbamate), Thiuram™ [bis(dimethylthiocarbamoyl)disulfide], Benlate™ [methyl 1-(butylcarbamoyl)-2-benzimidazole carbamate], Difolatan™ (N-tetrachloroethylthio-4-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxyimide), Daconol™ (tetrachloroisophthalonitrile), Pansoil™ (5-ethoxy-3-trichloromethyl-1,2,4-thiadiazole), Thiophanate-methyl[1,2-bis(3-methoxycarbonyl-2-thioureido)benzene], Rabcide™ (4,5,6,7-tetrachlorophthaloid), Kitazin P™ (O,O-diisopropyl-S-benzyl phosphorothioate), Hinonsan™ (O-ethyl-S,S-diphenyldithiophosphate), and Propenazol™ (3-allyloxy-1,2-benzothiazole 1,1-dioxide).


Example of plant growth regulating agents include, but are not limited to, MH™ (maleic acid hydrazide) and Ethrel™ (2-chloroethylphosphonic acid).


Examples of herbicides include, but are not limited to Stam™ (3,4-dichloropropionanilide), Saturn™ [S-(4-chlorobenzyl) N,N-diethylthiolcarbamate), Lasso (2-chloro-2′,6′-diethyl-N-(methoxymethyl)acetanilide), Glyphosate™ [N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine isopropylamine salt], DCMU [3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea), and Gramoxone™ (1,1′-dimethyl-4,4′-dipyridium dichloride].


Other herbicides contemplated for use in the present invention include auxin transport inhibitors, e.g., naptalam; growth regulators, including benzoic acids, e.g., dicamba; phenoxy acids, such as (i) acetic acid type, e.g., 2,4-D, MCPA, (ii) propionic acid type, e.g., 2,4-DP, MCPP, and (iii) butyric acid type, e.g., 2,4-DB, MCPB; picolinic acids and related compounds, e.g., picloram, triclopyr, fluroxypyr, and clopyralid.


Photosynthesis inhibitors are also herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include but are not limited to (a) s-triazines, such as (i) chloro substituted, e.g., atrazine, simazine, and cyanazine, (ii) methoxy substituted, e.g., prometon, (iii) methylthio substituted, e.g., ametryn and prometryn; (b) other triazines, such as hexazinone, and metribuzin; (c) substituted ureas, such as diuron, fluometuron, linuron, tebuthiuron, thidiazuron, and forchlorfenuron; (d) uracils, such as bromacil and terbacil; and (e) others, such as bentazon, desmedipham, pheninedipham, propanil, pyrazon, and pyridate.


Pigment inhibitors are also herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include but are not limited to pyridazinones, such as norflurazon; isoxazolones, such as clomazone; and others, such as amitrole and fluridone.


In yet another aspect of the invention, growth inhibitors are herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include but are not limited to (a) mitotic disruptors, such as (i) dinitroanilines, e.g., trifluralin, prodiamine, benefin, ethalfluralin, isopropalin, oryzalin, and pendimethalin; and (ii) others, such as DCPA, dithiopyr, thiazopyr, and pronamide; (b) inhibitors of shoots of emerging seedlings, such as (i) thiocarbamates, e.g., EPTC, butylate, cycloate, molinate, pebulate, thiobencarb, triallate, and vernolate; (c) inhibitors of roots only of seedlings, such as bensulide, napropamide, and siduron; and (d) inhibitors of roots and shoots of seedlings, including chloroacetamides, such as alachlor, acetochlor, metolachlor, diethatyl, propachlor, butachlor, pretilachlor, metazachlor, dimethachlor, and cinmethylin.


Amino acid synthesis inhibitors are herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include, but are not limited to, (a) glyphosate, glufosinate; (b) sulfonylureas, such as rimsulfuron, metsulfuron, nicosulfuron, triasulfuron, primisulfuron, bensulfuron, chlorimuron, chlorsulfuron, sulfometuron, thifensulfuron, tribenuron, ethametsulfuron, triflusulfuron, clopyrasulfuron, pyrazasulfuron, prosulfuron (CGA-152005), halosulfuron, metsulfuron-methyl, and chlorimuron-ethyl; (c) sulfonamides, such as flumetsulam (a.k.a. DE498); (d) imidazolinones, such as imazaquin, imazamethabenz, imazapyr, imazethapyr, and imazmethapyr.


Lipid biosynthesis inhibitors are herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include, but are not limited to, (a) cyclohexanediones, such as sethoxydim and clethodim; (b) aryloxyphenoxys, such as fluazifop-(P-butyl), diclofop-methyl, haloxyfop-methyl, and quizalofop; and (c) others, such as fenoxaprop-ethyl.


Cell wall biosynthesis inhibitors are herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include, but are not limited to, dichlobenil and isoxaben.


Rapid cell membrane disruptors are herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention. Such compounds include, but are not limited to, (a) bipyridiliums, such as paraquat, and diquat; (b) diphenyl ethers, such as acifluorfen, fomesafen, lactofen, and oxyfluorfen; (c) glutamine synthetase inhibitors, such as glufosinate; and (d) others, such as oxadiazon.


Miscellaneous herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention include, but are not limited to, (a) carbamates, such as asulam; (b) nitriles, such as bromoxynil and ioxynil; (c) hydantocidin and derivatives; and (d) various other compounds, such as paclobutrazol, ethofumesate, quinclorac (a.k.a. BAS514), difenzoquat. endothall, fosamine, DSMA, and MSMA.


Other herbicides useful in the compositions of the invention include, but are not limited to, triketones and diones of the type described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,336,662 and 5,608,101, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference, and in EP-A-338-992; EP-A-394-889; EP-A-506,967; EP-A-137,963; EP-A-186-118; EP-A-186-119; EP-A-186-120; EP-A-249-150; and EP-A-336-898. Examples of such triketones and diones are sulcotrione (MIKADO™), whose chemical designation is 2-(2-chloro-4-methanesulfonylbenzoyl)-1,3-cyclohexanedione: 2-(4-methylsulfonyloxy-2-nitrobenzoyl)-4,4,6,6-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclohexane dione; 3-(4-methylsulfonyloxy-2-nitrobenzoyl)-bicyclo[3,2,1]octane-2,4-dione3-(4-methylsulfonyl-2-nitrobenzoyl)-bicyclo[3,2,1]octane-2,4-dione; 4-(4-chloro-2-nitrobenzoyl)-2,6,6-trimethyl-2H-1,2-oxazine-3,5(4H,6H)dione; 4-(4-methylthio-2-nitrobenzoyl)-2,6,6-trimethyl-2H-1,2-oxazine-3,5(4H,6H)-dione; 3-(4-methylthio-2-nitrobenzoyl)-bicyclo[3,2,1]octane-2,4-dione; 4-(2-nitro-4-trifluoromethoxybenzoyl)-2,6,6-trimethyl-2H-1,2-oxazine-3,5(4H,6H)-dione.


Herbicidal compounds useful in the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,506,192; EP-A-461,079; EP-A-549,524; EP-A-315,589 and PCT Appln. No. 91/10653. The contents of all of the cited references are incorporated herein by reference; including for example 3-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)hydroxymethyl]-N-methyl-2-pyridine carboxamide; 4,7-dichloro-3-(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)-3-hexanoyloxyphthalide; 3-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)carbonyl]-N,N-dimethyl-2-pyridine carboxamide; 3,6-dichloro-2-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)carbonyl]benzoic acid; 6-chloro-2-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)thio]benzoic acid (a.k.a. DPX-PE350 or pyrithiobac) and salts thereof.


f. Active Agents in Miscellaneous Applications


Other exemplary uses of the novel bioadhesive formulations are provided: teeth can be treated with teeth whiteners or fluoride bioadhesive compositions; bones can be treated with calcium bioadhesive compositions; nails can be treated with color or strengthening bioadhesive formulations; insects or pests can be treated with insecticides or other toxic compositions to the pest. In sum, the compositions are useful in treating any biological surface, or a surface derived from a biological material. Feathers and scales of animals can be treated, as well as other animal biological surfaces such as chitin.


2. Lysozyme Surface Stabilizer


The choice of a surface stabilizer is non-trivial and usually requires extensive experimentation to realize a desirable formulation. Accordingly, the present invention is directed to the surprising discovery that lysozyme, used as a nanoparticulate surface stabilizer, yields stable nanoparticulate compositions that exhibit low degrees of aggregation. This discovery is particularly unexpected as it was found that nanoparticulate compositions employing other protein surface stabilizers, such as casein, albumin, γ-globulin, and fibrinogen, give rise to unstable dispersions with concomitant and severe aggregation.


An unexpected benefit of the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention is that the compositions are likely to exhibit bioadhesive properties. This is because lysozyme has a high isoelectric point (pI=11.35), which will likely result in stable nanoparticulate compositions exhibiting relatively large, positive zeta potentials.


3. Auxiliary Surface Stabilizers


The compositions of the invention can also include one or more auxiliary or secondary surface stabilizers in addition to lysozyme. Suitable auxiliary surface stabilizers can preferably be selected from known organic and inorganic pharmaceutical excipients. Such excipients include various polymers, low molecular weight oligomers, natural products, and surfactants. Preferred surface stabilizers include nonionic, ionic, cationic, and zwitterionic surfactants. Two or more surface auxiliary stabilizers can be used in combination.


Depending upon the desired method of administration, bioadhesive formulations of nanoparticulate compositions can be prepared by selecting one or more cationic surface stabilizers that impart bioadhesive properties to the resultant composition.


Representative examples of auxiliary surface stabilizers include cetyl pyridinium chloride, gelatin, casein, lecithin (phosphatides), dextran, glycerol, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers (e.g., macrogol ethers such as cetomacrogol 1000), polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters (e.g., the commercially available Tweens® such as e.g., Tween 20® and Tween 80® (ICI Specialty Chemicals)); polyethylene glycols (e.g., Carbowaxes 3350® and 1450®, and Carbopol 934® (Union Carbide)), dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, polyoxyethylene stearates, colloidal silicon dioxide, phosphates, sodium dodecylsulfate, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, hydroxypropyl celluloses (e.g., HPC, HPC-SL, and HPC-L), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), carboxymethylcellulose sodium, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose phthalate, noncrystalline cellulose, magnesium aluminum silicate, triethanolamine, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenol polymer with ethylene oxide and formaldehyde (also known as tyloxapol, superione, and triton), poloxamers (e.g., Pluronics F68® and F108®, which are block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide); poloxamines (e.g., Tetronic 908®, also known as Poloxamine 908®, which is a tetrafunctional block copolymer derived from sequential addition of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide to ethylenediamine (BASF Wyandotte Corporation, Parsippany, N.J.)); a charged phospholipid such as dimyristoyl phophatidyl glycerol, sodium lauryl sulfate, dioctylsulfosuccinate (DOSS); Tetronic 1508® (T-1508) (BASF Wyandotte Corporation), dialkylesters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid (e.g., Aerosol OT®, which is a dioctyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid (Cytec Industries, West Paterson, N.J.)); Duponol P®, which is a sodium lauryl sulfate (DuPont); Triton X-200®, which is an alkyl aryl polyether sulfonate (Union Carbide); Crodestas F-110®, which is a mixture of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate (Croda Inc.); p-isononylphenoxypoly-(glycidol), also known as Olin-lOG® or Surfactant 10-G® (Olin Chemicals, Stamford, Conn.); Crodestas SL-40® (Croda, Inc.); decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-decyl β-D-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl β-D-thioglucoside; n-hexyl β-D-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-noyl β-D-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; octyl β-D-thioglucopyranoside; random copolymers of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone, and the like. Two or more surface stabilizers can be used in combination.


Examples of useful cationic surface stabilizers include, but are not limited to, polymers, biopolymers, polysaccharides, cellulosics, alginates, phospholipids, and nonpolymeric compounds, such as zwitterionic stabilizers, poly-n-methylpyridinium, anthryul pyridinium chloride, cationic phospholipids, chitosan, polylysine, polyvinylimidazole, polybrene, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammoniumbromide bromide (PMMTMABr), hexyldesyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDMAB), polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate, 1,2 Dipalmitoyl-sn-Glycero-3-Phosphoethanolamine-N-[Amino(Polyethylene Glycol)2000] (sodium salt) (also known as DPPE-PEG(2000)-Amine Na) (Avanti Polar Lipids, Alabaster, Ala.), Poly(2-methacryloxyethyl trimethylammonium bromide) (Polysciences, Inc., Warrington, Pa.) (also known as S1001), poloxamines such as Tetronic 908®, also known as Poloxamine 908®, which is a tetrafunctional block copolymer derived from sequential addition of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide to ethylenediamine (BASF Wyandotte Corporation, Parsippany, N.J.), lysozyme, long-chain polymers such as alginic acid, carrageenan (FMC Corp.), and POLYOX (Dow, Midland, Mich.).


Other useful cationic stabilizers include, but are not limited to, cationic lipids, sulfonium, phosphonium, and quarternary ammonium compounds, such as stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, C12-15dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride or bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride or bromide, lauryl dimethyl(ethenoxy)4 ammonium chloride or bromide, N-alkyl(C12-18)dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl(C14-18)dimethyl-benzyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecylidmethylbenzyl ammonium chloride monohydrate, dimethyl didecyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl and (C12-14)dimethyl 1-napthylmethyl ammonium chloride, trimethylammonium halide, alkyl-trimethylammonium salts and dialkyl-dimethylammonium salts, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, ethoxylated alkyamidoalkyldialkylammonium salt and/or an ethoxylated trialkyl ammonium salt, dialkylbenzene dialkylammonium chloride, N-didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium, chloride monohydrate, N-alkyl(C12-14)dimethyl 1-naphthylmethyl ammonium chloride and dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, dialkyl benzenealkyl ammonium chloride, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, alkylbenzyl methyl ammonium chloride, alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium bromide, C12, C15, C17 trimethyl ammonium bromides, dodecylbenzyl triethyl ammonium chloride, poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), dimethyl ammonium chlorides, alkyldimethylammonium halogenides, tricetyl methyl ammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltriethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, methyl trioctylammonium chloride (ALIQUAT 336™), POLYQUAT 10™, tetrabutylammonium bromide, benzyl trimethylammonium bromide, choline esters (such as choline esters of fatty acids), benzalkonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride compounds (such as stearyltrimonium chloride and Di-stearyldimonium chloride), cetyl pyridinium bromide or chloride, halide salts of quaternized polyoxyethylalkylamines, MIRAPOL™ and ALKAQUAT™ (Alkaril Chemical Company), alkyl pyridinium salts; amines, such as alkylamines, dialkylamines, alkanolamines, polyethylenepolyamines, N,N-dialkylaminoalkyl acrylates, and vinyl pyridine, amine salts, such as lauryl amine acetate, stearyl amine acetate, alkylpyridinium salt, and alkylimidazolium salt, and amine oxides; imide azolinium salts; protonated quaternary acrylamides; methylated quaternary polymers, such as poly[diallyl dimethylammonium chloride] and poly-[N-methyl vinyl pyridinium chloride]; and cationic guar.


Such exemplary cationic surface stabilizers and other useful cationic surface stabilizers are described in J. Cross and E. Singer, Cationic Surfactants: Analytical and Biological Evaluation (Marcel Dekker, 1994); P. and D. Rubingh (Editor), Cationic Surfactants: Physical Chemistry (Marcel Dekker, 1991); and J. Richmond, Cationic Surfactants: Organic Chemistry, (Marcel Dekker, 1990).


Nonpolymeric cationic surface stabilizers are any nonpolymeric compound, such as benzalkonium chloride, a carbonium compound, a phosphonium compound, an oxonium compound, a halonium compound, a cationic organometallic compound, a quarternary phosphorous compound, a pyridinium compound, an anilinium compound, an ammonium compound, a hydroxylammonium compound, a primary ammonium compound, a secondary ammonium compound, a tertiary ammonium compound, and quarternary ammonium compounds of the formula NR1R2R3R4(+). For compounds of the formula NR1R2R3R4(+):

    • (i) none of R1-R4 are CH3;
    • (ii) one of R1-R4 is CH3;
    • (iii) three of R1-R4 are CH3;
    • (iv) all of R1-R4 are CH3;
    • (v) two of R1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 is an alkyl chain of seven carbon atoms or less;
    • (vi) two of R1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 is an alkyl chain of nineteen carbon atoms or more;
    • (vii) two of R1-R4 are CH3 and one of R1-R4 is the group C6H5(CH2)n, where n>1;
    • (viii) two of R1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 comprises at least one heteroatom;
    • (ix) two of R1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 comprises at least one halogen;
    • (x) two of R1-R4 are CH3, one of R1-R4 is C6H5CH2, and one of R1-R4 comprises at least one cyclic fragment;
    • (xi) two of R1-R4 are CH3 and one of R1-R4 is a phenyl ring; or
    • (xii) two of R1-R4 are CH3 and two of R1-R4 are purely aliphatic fragments.


Such compounds include, but are not limited to, behenalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, behentrimonium chloride, lauralkonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide, cetrimonium chloride, cethylamine hydrofluoride, chlorallylmethenamine chloride (Quaternium-15), distearyldimonium chloride (Quaternium-5), dodecyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chloride (Quaternium-14), Quaternium-22, Quaternium-26, Quaternium-18 hectorite, dimethylaminoethylchloride hydrochloride, cysteine hydrochloride, diethanolammonium POE (10) oletyl ether phosphate, diethanolammonium POE (3)oleyl ether phosphate, tallow alkonium chloride, dimethyl dioctadecylammoniumbentonite, stearalkonium chloride, domiphen bromide, denatonium benzoate, myristalkonium chloride, laurtrimonium chloride, ethylenediamine dihydrochloride, guanidine hydrochloride, pyridoxine HCl, iofetamine hydrochloride, meglumine hydrochloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, myrtrimonium bromide, oleyltrimonium chloride, polyquaternium-1, procainehydrochloride, cocobetaine, stearalkonium bentonite, stearalkoniumhectonite, stearyl trihydroxyethyl propylenediamine dihydrofluoride, tallowtrimonium chloride, and hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide.


Most of these surface stabilizers are known pharmaceutical excipients and are described in detail in the Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, published jointly by the American Pharmaceutical Association and The Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (The Pharmaceutical Press, 2000), specifically incorporated by reference. The surface stabilizers are commercially available and/or can be prepared by techniques known in the art.


4. Nanoparticulate Active Agent/Lysozyme Particle Size


The compositions of the invention contain nanoparticulate active agent particles which have an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm (i.e., 2 microns), less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000 nm, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, or less than about 50 nm, as measured by light-scattering methods, microscopy, or other appropriate methods.


By “an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm” it is meant that at least 50% by weight of the active agent particles have a particle size less than the effective average, i.e., less than about 2000 nm, 1900 nm, 1800 nm, etc., when measured by the above-noted techniques. In other embodiments of the invention, at least about 70%, at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of the active agent particles have a particle size less than the effective average, i.e., less than about 2000 nm, 1900 nm, 1800 nm, etc.


5. Concentration of Nanoparticulate Active Agent and Stabilizer


The relative amounts of active agent and lysozyme, and optionally one or more secondary surface stabilizers, can vary widely. The optimal amount of the individual components can depend, for example, upon the particular active agent selected, the hydrophilic lipophilic balance (HLB), melting point, and the surface tension of water solutions of the stabilizer, etc.


The concentration of lysozyme can vary from about 0.5% to about 99.999%, from about 5.0% to about 99.9%, or from about 10% to about 99.5%, by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the at least one active agent and lysozyme, not including other excipients.


The concentration of the active agent can vary from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, or from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight based on the total combined dry weight of the active agent and surface stabilizer, not including other excipients.


B. Methods of Making Nanoparticulate Formulations


The nanoparticulate active agent compositions can be made using, for example, milling, homogenization, or precipitation techniques. Exemplary methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are described in the '684 patent. Methods of making nanoparticulate compositions are also described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,518,187 for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,388 for “Continuous Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,862,999 for “Method of Grinding Pharmaceutical Substances;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,331 for “Co-Microprecipitation of Nanoparticulate Pharmaceutical Agents with Crystal Growth Modifiers;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,662,883 for “Co-Microprecipitation of Nanoparticulate Pharmaceutical Agents with Crystal Growth Modifiers;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,560,932 for “Microprecipitation of Nanoparticulate Pharmaceutical Agents;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,543,133 for “Process of Preparing X-Ray Contrast Compositions Containing Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,270 for “Method of Preparing Stable Drug Nanoparticles;” U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,118 for “Process of Preparing Therapeutic Compositions Containing Nanoparticles;” and U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,583 for “Method of Preparing Nanoparticle Compositions Containing Charged Phospholipids to Reduce Aggregation,” all of which are specifically incorporated by reference.


The resultant nanoparticulate active agent compositions can be utilized in solid or liquid dosage formulations, such as controlled release formulations, solid dose fast melt formulations, aerosol formulations, nasal formulations, lyophilized formulations, tablets, capsules, solid lozenge, powders, creams, ointments, etc.


1. Milling to Obtain Nanoparticulate Active Agent Dispersions


Milling the active agent to obtain a nanoparticulate dispersion comprises dispersing active agent particles in a liquid dispersion medium in which the active agent is poorly soluble, followed by applying mechanical means in the presence of grinding media to reduce the particle size of the active agent to the desired effective average particle size. The dispersion medium can be, for example, water, safflower oil, ethanol, t-butanol, glycerin, polyethylene glycol (PEG), hexane, or glycol.


The active agent particles can be reduced in size in the presence of lysozyme. Alternatively, the active agent particles can be contacted with lysozyme after attrition. One or more secondary surface stabilizers may also be added before or after attrition. Other compounds, such as a diluent, can be added to the active agent/surface stabilizer composition during the size reduction process. Dispersions can be manufactured continuously or in a batch mode.


2. Precipitation to Obtain Nanoparticulate Active Agent Compositions


Another method of forming the desired nanoparticulate composition is by microprecipitation. This is a method of preparing stable dispersions of poorly soluble active agents in the presence of one or more surface stabilizers and one or more colloid stability enhancing surface active agents free of any trace toxic solvents or solubilized heavy metal impurities. Such a method comprises, for example: (1) dissolving the poorly soluble active agent in a suitable solvent; (2) adding the formulation from step (1) to a solution comprising lysozyme and optionally one or more secondary surface stabilizers, to form a clear solution; and (3) precipitating the formulation from step (2) using an appropriate non-solvent. The method can be followed by removal of any formed salt, if present, by dialysis or diafiltration and concentration of the dispersion by conventional means.


3. Homogenization to Obtain Nanoparticulate Active Agent Compositions


Exemplary homogenization methods of preparing active agent nanoparticulate compositions are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,118, for “Process of Preparing Therapeutic Compositions Containing Nanoparticles.”


Such a method comprises dispersing active agent particles in a liquid dispersion medium in which active agent is poorly soluble, followed by subjecting the dispersion to homogenization to reduce the particle size of the active agent to the desired effective average particle size. The active agent particles can be reduced in size in the presence of lysozyme and, if desired, one or more additional surface stabilizers. Alternatively, the active agent particles can be contacted with lysozyme and, if desired, one or more additional surface stabilizers either before or after attrition. Other compounds, such as a diluent, can be added to the active agent/lysozyme composition either before, during, or after the size reduction process. Dispersions can be manufactured continuously or in a batch mode.


C. Methods of Using Nanoparticulate Active Agent Formulations


The nanoparticulate compositions of the present invention can be administered to humans and animals via any conventional means including, but not limited to, orally, rectally, ocularly, parenterally (intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous), intracisternally, pulmonary, intravaginally, intraperitoneally, locally (powders, ointments or drops), or as a buccal or nasal spray.


Compositions suitable for parenteral injection may comprise physiologically acceptable sterile aqueous or nonaqueous solutions, dispersions, suspensions or emulsions and sterile powders for reconstitution into sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. Examples of suitable aqueous and nonaqueous carriers, diluents, solvents, or vehicles including water, ethanol, polyols (propyleneglycol, polyethylene-glycol, glycerol, and the like), suitable mixtures thereof, vegetable oils (such as olive oil) and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersions, and by the use of surfactants.


The nanoparticulate compositions may also contain adjuvants such as preserving, wetting, emulsifying, and dispensing agents. Prevention of the growth of microorganisms can be ensured by various antibacterial and antifungal agents, such as parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, and the like. It may also be desirable to include isotonic agents, such as sugars, sodium chloride, and the like. Prolonged absorption of the injectable pharmaceutical form can be brought about by the use of agents delaying absorption, such as aluminum monostearate and gelatin.


Solid dosage forms for oral administration include capsules, tablets, pills, powders, and granules. In such solid dosage forms, the active agent is admixed with at least one of the following: (a) one or more inert excipients (or carrier), such as sodium citrate or dicalcium phosphate; (b) fillers or extenders, such as starches, lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol, and silicic acid; (c) binders, such as carboxymethylcellulose, alignates, gelatin, polyvinylpyrrolidone, sucrose and acacia; (d) humectants, such as glycerol; (e) disintegrating agents, such as agar-agar, calcium carbonate, potato or tapioca starch, alginic acid, certain complex silicates, and sodium carbonate; (f) solution retarders, such as paraffin; (g) absorption accelerators, such as quaternary ammonium compounds; (h) wetting agents, such as cetyl alcohol and glycerol monostearate; (i) adsorbents, such as kaolin and bentonite; and (j) lubricants, such as talc, calcium stearate, magnesium stearate, solid polyethylene glycols, sodium lauryl sulfate, or mixtures thereof. For capsules, tablets, and pills, the dosage forms may also comprise buffering agents.


Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions, solutions, suspensions, syrups, and elixirs. In addition to the active agent, the liquid dosage forms may comprise inert diluents commonly used in the art, such as water or other solvents, solubilizing agents, and emulsifiers. Exemplary emulsifiers are ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propyleneglycol, 1,3-butyleneglycol, dimethylformamide, oils, such as cottonseed oil, groundnut oil, corn germ oil, olive oil, castor oil, and sesame oil, glycerol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, polyethyleneglycols, fatty acid esters of sorbitan, or mixtures of these substances, and the like.


Besides such inert diluents, the composition can also include adjuvants, such as wetting agents, emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, and perfuming agents.


Actual dosage levels of active agent in the nanoparticulate compositions of the invention may be varied to obtain an amount of active agent that is effective to obtain a desired therapeutic response for a particular composition and method of administration. The selected dosage level therefore depends upon the desired therapeutic effect, the route of administration, the potency of the administered active agent, the desired duration of treatment, and other factors.


Dosage unit compositions may contain such amounts of such submultiples thereof as may be used to make up the daily dose. It will be understood, however, that the specific dose level for any particular patient will depend upon a variety of factors including the body weight, general health, sex, diet, time and route of administration, potency of the administered active agent, rates of absorption and excretion, combination with other active agents, and the severity of the particular disease being treated.


The following examples are given to illustrate the present invention. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not to be limited to the specific conditions or details described in these examples. Throughout the specification, any and all references to a publicly available document, including a U.S. patent, are specifically incorporated by reference.


In the examples that follow, the value for D50 is the particle size below which 50% of the active agent particles fall. Similarly, D90 is the particle size below which 90% of the active agent particles fall.


The formulations in the examples that follow were also investigated using a light microscope. Here, “stable” nanoparticulate dispersions (uniform Brownian motion) were readily distinguishable from “aggregated” dispersions (relatively large, nonuniform particles without motion).


Example 1

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of naproxen using different proteins as surface stabilizers.


Naproxen is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic having the following chemical structure:




embedded image



The compound has a molecular weight of 230.3 g, and a solubility in water of 16 μg/mL at pH 2 and 3.2 mg/mL at pH 7.5.


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % protein surface stabilizer (see Table 1, below) and 5 wt. % naproxen was charged into a 10 cc batch chamber of a NanoMill® (Elan Pharmaceutical Technologies, Inc.) (See e.g., WO 00/72973 for “Small-Scale Mill and Method Thereof” Milling was conducted at 5000 rpm at 5° C. The results are shown below in Table 1.













TABLE 1






Mean Particle
D50 Particle
D90 Particle



Protein
Size (nm)
Size (nm)
Size (nm)
Microscope



















fibrinogen
18651
16189
32027
Aggregated


γ-globulin
24453
16201
49416
Aggregated


albumin
13559
11073
20974
Aggregated


casein
22768
11852
59611
Aggregated


lysozyme
81
78
114
Stable









The results demonstrate that only lysozyme was capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition of naproxen. Nanoparticulate compositions of naproxen and lysozyme had a mean particle size of 81 nm, with a D50 and D90 of 78 nm and 114 nm, respectively.


In contrast, every other protein stabilizer resulted in naproxen compositions having large particle sizes (i.e., mean particle sizes of about 13.6 to 22.8 microns, D50 particle sizes of 11.1 to 16.2 microns, and D90 particle sizes of 21.0 to 59.6 microns).


Example 2

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of the x-ray contrast agent benzoic acid, 3,5-bis(acetylamino)-2,4,6-triodo-4-(ethyl-3-ethoxy-2-butenoate) ester (WIN 68209) using different protein surface stabilizers.


WIN 68209 has the following chemical structure:




embedded image


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % protein surface stabilizer (see Table 2, below) and 5 wt. % WIN 68209 was charged into a 10 cc batch chamber of a NanoMill® (Elan Pharmaceutical Technologies, Inc.). Milling was conducted at 5500 rpm at 5° C. The results are shown below in Table 2.













TABLE 2






Mean Particle
D50 Particle
D90 Particle



Protein
Size (nm)
Size (nm)
Size (nm)
Microscope



















fibrinogen
6044
5695
10744
Aggregated


γ-globulin
4685
4334
8726
Aggregated


albumin
8290
7472
15137
Aggregated


casein
5407
4571
10094
Aggregated


lysozyme
82
78
116
Stable









The results demonstrate that only lysozyme was capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition of WIN 68209. Nanoparticulate compositions of WIN 68209 and lysozyme had a mean particle size of 82 nm, with a D50 and D90 of 78 nm and 116 nm, respectively.


In contrast, every other protein stabilizer resulted in WIN 68209 compositions having large particle sizes (i.e., mean particle sizes of about 4.7 to 8.3 microns, D50 particle sizes of 4.3 to 7.5 microns, and D90 particle sizes of 8.7 to 15 microns).


Example 3

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of itraconazole using different protein surface stabilizers.


Itraconazole is an antifungal compound having the following structure:




embedded image


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % protein surface stabilizer (see Table 3, below) and 5 wt. % itraconazole (Wyckoff, Inc., South Haven, Mich.; Itraconazole Powder, Lot No. IT-01L01-P, Date of Manufacture: 4 Nov. 2001) was charged into a 10 cc batch chamber of a NanoMill® (Elan Pharmaceutical Technologies, Inc.). Milling was conducted at 5500 rpm at 5° C. The results are shown below in Table 3.













TABLE 3





Protein
Mean (nm)
D50 (nm)
D90 (nm)
Microscope



















fibrinogen
4187
3745
7986
Aggregated


γ-globulin
10949
9284
20623
Aggregated


albumin
9219
7963
18969
Aggregated


casein
6289
5735
11222
Aggregated


lysozyme
930
450
1937
Stable









The results demonstrate that only lysozyme was capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition of itraconazole. Nanoparticulate compositions of itraconazole and lysozyme had a mean particle size of 930 nm, with a D50 and D90 of 450 nm and 1937 nm, respectively.


In contrast, every other protein stabilizer resulted in itraconazole compositions having large particle sizes (i.e., mean particle sizes of 4.2 to 10.9 microns, D50 particle sizes of 3.7 to 9.3 microns, and D90 particle sizes of 8.0 to 20.6 microns).


Example 4

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of prednisolone using different protein surface stabilizers. Prednisolone, a steroid hormone, is a dehydrogenated analogue of cortisol (hydrocortisone).


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % protein surface stabilizer (see Table 4, below) and 5 wt. % prednisolone acetate was charged into a 10 cc batch chamber of a NanoMill® (Elan Pharmaceutical Technologies, Inc.). Milling was conducted at 5500 rpm at 5° C. The results are shown below in Table 4.













TABLE 4





Protein
Mean (nm)
D50 (nm)
D90 (nm)
Microscope



















fibrinogen
5356
5221
8910
Aggregated


γ-globulin
5008
4801
8895
Aggregated


albumin
27817
18120
58730
Aggregated


casein
13394
4173
13278
Aggregated


lysozyme
143
139
191
Stable









The results demonstrate that only lysozyme was capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition of prednisolone acetate. Nanoparticulate compositions of prednisolone acetate and lysozyme had a mean particle size of 143 nm, with a D50 and D90 of 139 nm and 191 nm, respectively.


In contrast, every other protein stabilizer resulted in prednisolone acetate compositions having large particle sizes (i.e., mean particle sizes of 5.0 to 27.8 microns, D50 particle sizes of 4.8 to 18.1 microns, and D90 particle sizes of 8.9 to 58.7 microns).


Example 5

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of budesonide using different protein surface stabilizers. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, has the following chemical structure:




embedded image


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % protein surface stabilizer (see Table 5, below) and 5 wt. % budesonide was charged into a 10 cc batch chamber of a NanoMill® (Elan Pharmaceutical Technologies, Inc.). Milling was conducted at 5500 rpm at 5° C. The results are shown below in Table 5.













TABLE 5





Protein
Mean (nm)
D50 (nm)
D90 (nm)
Microscope



















fibrinogen
5113
4566
9594
Aggregated


γ-globulin
6168
4703
11786
Aggregated


albumin
6946
5826
14160
Aggregated


casein
16302
6340
31346
Aggregated


lysozyme
393
328
565
Stable









The results demonstrate that only lysozyme was capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition of budesonide. Nanoparticulate compositions of budesonide and lysozyme had a mean particle size of 393 nm, with a D50 and D90 of 328 nm and 565 nm, respectively.


In contrast, every other protein stabilizer resulted in budesonide composition having large particle sizes (i.e., mean particle sizes of 5.1 to 16.3 microns, D50 particle sizes of 4.6 to 6.3 microns, and D90 particle sizes of 9.6 to 31.3 microns).


Example 6

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of lutein using lysozyme as a protein surface stabilizer. Lutein is a carotenoid found in vegetables and fruits. Lutein acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells against the damaging effects of free radicals. The compound has the chemical formula C40H52O2 and a molecular weight of 568.88.


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % lysozyme and 5 wt. % lutein was charged into a 10 cc batch chamber of a NanoMill® (Elan Pharmaceutical Technologies, Inc.). Milling was conducted at 5500 rpm at 5° C. The results are shown below in Table 6.













TABLE 6





Protein
Mean (nm)
D50 (nm)
D90 (nm)
Microscope







lysozyme
561
534
800
Stable









The results demonstrate that lysozyme was capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition of lutein. Nanoparticulate compositions of lutein and lysozyme had a mean particle size of 561 nm, with a D50 and D90 of 534 nm and 800 nm, respectively.


Example 7

The purpose of this example was to prepare nanoparticulate formulations of various active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) compounds using lysozyme as a surface stabilizer.


An aqueous dispersion of 1 wt. % lysozyme (see Table 7, below) and 5 wt. % API was charged into either a NanoMill™ equipped with a 10 cc batch chamber, or a DynoMill® (Type: KDL; Mfg.: Willy Bachofen, Basel, Switzerland) equipped with a 150 cc batch chamber. In the case of the NanoMill™, the mill speeds ranged from 2000 to 5500 rpm, while in the DynoMill®, milling was conducted at 4200 rpm. In both mills, the temperature was maintained at 5° C., while the total mill time varied from 0.5 to 2 hours. Following milling, the mean particle size, D50, and D90 were measured for each API milled sample. Each milled composition was also evaluated via a microscope to detect any aggregation. The results are shown below in Table 7.
















TABLE 7











Mill
Mill



Mean
D50
D90


Speed
Time


API
(nm)
(nm)
(nm)
Microscope
Mill
(rpm)
(hr)






















Compound A
141
119
228
Stable
Nano
5500
2


Compound B
191
183
265
Stable
Nano
5500
1


Compound C
201
180
289
Stable
Nano
5500
2


Compound D
795
384
1948
Stable
Nano
5500
0.5


Compound E
338
304
501
Stable
Nano
5500
1


Compound F
110
104
169
Stable
Nano
5500
0.5


Compound G
264
252
352
Stable
Nano
5500
0.5


Policosanol
1357
553
3599
Stable
Nano
5500
2


Benzoyl
122
110
196
Stable
Nano
5500
1


Peroxide









Triamcinolone
114
107
172
Stable
Nano
2500
0.5


Paclitaxel
141
130
190
Stable
Nano
4000
0.5


Barium Sulfate
277
268
377
Stable
Dyno
4200
1.5


Ketoprofen
85
84
114
Stable
Dyno
4200
1









The results demonstrate that lysozyme is capable of functioning as a surface stabilizer to form a stable nanoparticulate composition with each of the API compounds. Nanoparticulate compositions of the various API compounds and lysozyme had mean particles sizes ranging from 85 to 1357 nm, with D50 and D90 sizes ranging from 84 to 553 nm and 114 to 3599 nm, respectively.


Example 8

The purpose of this example was to prepare a nanoparticulate dispersion of fluticasone propionate utilizing lysozyme as a surface stabilizer.


Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic, trifluorinated, corticosteroid having the chemical name of S-fluoromethyl-6α,9-difluoro-11β-hydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carbothioate, 17-propionate, and the empirical formula C25H31F3O5S. It is practically insoluble in water.


A mixture of 5% w/w fluticasone propionate and 2% lysozyme was milled for 30 min. under high energy milling conditions in a NanoMill® (Elan Drug Delivery, Inc.) equipped with a 18 cc batch chamber. 500 μm polymeric attrition media (The Dow Chemical Co., Midland, Mich.) was utilized in the milling process.


Particle size analysis of the milled fluticasone propionate composition, conducted using a Horiba LA-910 particle size analyzer (Irvine, Calif.) showed a final fluticasone propionate mean particle size of 311 nm.


It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the methods and compositions of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims
  • 1. A method of treating a subject in need comprising administering or applying a nanoparticulate active agent composition comprising: (a) at least one active agent having an effective average particle size of less than about 2000 nm; and(b) lysozyme adsorbed on or associated with the surface of the active agent.
  • 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one active agent is selected from the group consisting of a drug, vitamin, herb, cosmetic agent, coloring agent, flavor agent, fragrance agent, sunscreen, moisturizer, deodorant, hair conditioner agent, hair dye, hair spray agent, hair cosmetic agent, hair cleanser agent, and depilatory agent.
  • 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one active agent is selected from the group consisting of proteins, peptides, nutraceuticals, carotenoids, anti-obesity agents, corticosteroids, elastase inhibitors, analgesics, anti-fungals, oncology therapies, anti-emetics, analgesics, cardiovascular agents, anti-inflammatory agents, anthelmintics, anti-arrhythmic agents, antibiotics, anticoagulants, antidepressants, antidiabetic agents, antiepileptics, antihistamines, antihypertensive agents, antimuscarinic agents, antimycobacterial agents, antineoplastic agents, immunosuppressants, antithyroid agents, antiviral agents, anxiolytic sedatives, astringents, beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents, blood products and substitutes, cardiac inotropic agents, contrast media, cough suppressants, diagnostic agents, diagnostic imaging agents, diuretics, dopaminergics, haemostatics, immunological agents, lipid regulating agents, muscle relaxants, parasympathomimetics, parathyroid calcitonin and biphosphonates, prostaglandins, radio-pharmaceuticals, sex hormones, anti-allergic agents, stimulants and anoretics, sympathomimetics, thyroid agents, vasodilators, xanthines, acne medication, alpha-hydroxy formulations, cystic-fibrosis therapies, asthma therapies, emphysema therapies, respiratory distress syndrome therapies, chronic bronchitis therapies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease therapies, organ-transplant rejection therapies, therapies for tuberculosis and other infections of the lung, and respiratory illness therapies associated with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
  • 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is formulated for administration selected from the group consisting of vaginal, ocular, nasal, buccal, oral, colonic, topical, and parenteral administration.
  • 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the composition is formulated for oral delivery.
  • 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the composition is formulated for topical delivery.
  • 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one active agent is selected from the group consisting of a crystalline phase, an amorphous phase, a semi-crystalline phase, and mixtures thereof.
  • 8. The method of claim 1, wherein: (a) the at least one active agent is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 99.5% to about 0.001%, from about 95% to about 0.1%, and from about 90% to about 0.5%, by weight based on the total combined weight of the active agent and lysozyme, not including other excipients; and(b) lysozyme is present in an amount selected from the group consisting of from about 0.5% to about 99.999%, from about 5.0% to about 99.9%, and from about 10% to about 99.5%, by weight, based on the total combined dry weight of the active agent and lysozyme, not including other excipients.
  • 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising at least one secondary surface stabilizer which is not lysozyme.
  • 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the secondary surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of an anionic surface stabilizer, a cationic surface stabilizer, a zwitterionic surface stabilizer, a non-ionic surface stabilizer, and an ionic surface stabilizer.
  • 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the at least one secondary surface stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of cetyl pyridinium chloride, gelatin, casein, phosphatides, dextran, glycerol, gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, stearic acid, benzalkonium chloride, calcium stearate, glycerol monostearate, cetostearyl alcohol, cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, sorbitan esters, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycols, dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, polyoxyethylene stearates, colloidal silicon dioxide, phosphates, sodium dodecylsulfate, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, hydroxypropyl celluloses, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose phthalate, noncrystalline cellulose, magnesium aluminum silicate, triethanolamine, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, 4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenol polymer with ethylene oxide and formaldehyde, poloxamers; poloxamines, a charged phospholipid, dioctylsulfosuccinate, dialkylesters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl aryl polyether sulfonates, mixtures of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate, p-isononylphenoxypoly-(glycidol), decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-decyl β-D-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl β-D-thioglucoside; n-hexyl β-D-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-noyl β-D-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-β-D-glucopyranoside; octyl β-D-thioglucopyranoside; random copolymers of vinyl acetate and vinyl pyrrolidone, a phospholipid, poly-n-methylpyridinium, anthryul pyridinium chloride, chitosan, polylysine, polyvinylimidazole, polybrene, polymethylmethacrylate trimethylammoniumbromide bromide, hexyldesyltrimethylammonium bromide, polyvinylpyrrolidone-2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate dimethyl sulfate, 1,2 Dipalmitoyl-sn-Glycero-3-Phosphoethanolamine-N-[Amino(Polyethylene Glycol)2000] (sodium salt), Poly(2-methacryloxyethyl trimethylammonium bromide), poloxamines, lysozyme, alginic acid, carrageenan, sulfonium, phosphonium, quarternary ammonium compounds, stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyl-di(2-chloroethyl)ethylammonium bromide, coconut trimethyl ammonium chloride, coconut trimethyl ammonium bromide, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut methyl dihydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, decyl triethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, decyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, C12-15-dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, C12-15-dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, coconut dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, myristyl trimethyl ammonium methyl sulphate, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide, lauryl dimethyl(ethenoxy)4 ammonium chloride, lauryl dimethyl(ethenoxy)4 ammonium bromide, N-alkyl(C12-18)dimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl(C14-18)dimethyl-benzyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecylidmethylbenzyl ammonium chloride monohydrate, dimethyl didecyl ammonium chloride, N-alkyl and (C12-14)dimethyl 1-napthylmethyl ammonium chloride, trimethylammonium halide, alkyl-trimethylammonium salts, dialkyl-dimethylammonium salts, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, ethoxylated alkyamidoalkyldialkylammonium salt, an ethoxylated trialkyl ammonium salt, dialkylbenzene dialkylammonium chloride, N-didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride, N-tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium, chloride monohydrate, N-alkyl(C12-14)dimethyl 1-naphthylmethyl ammonium chloride, dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, dialkyl benzenealkyl ammonium chloride, lauryl trimethyl ammonium chloride, alkylbenzyl methyl ammonium chloride, alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium bromide, C12, C15, C17 trimethyl ammonium bromides, dodecylbenzyl triethyl ammonium chloride, poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride, dimethyl ammonium chlorides, alkyldimethylammonium halogenides, tricetyl methyl ammonium chloride, decyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltriethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, methyl trioctylammonium chloride, tetrabutylammonium bromide, benzyl trimethylammonium bromide, choline esters, benzalkonium chloride, stearalkonium chloride compounds, cetyl pyridinium bromide, cetyl pyridinium chloride, halide salts of quaternized polyoxyethylalkylamines, alkyl pyridinium salts, amines, protonated quaternary acrylamides, methylated quaternary polymers, cationic guar, a carbonium compound, an oxonium compound, a halonium compound, a cationic organometallic compound, a quarternary phosphorous compound, a pyridinium compound, an anilinium compound, an ammonium compound, a hydroxylammonium compound, a primary ammonium compound, a secondary ammonium compound, a tertiary ammonium compound, behenalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, behentrimonium chloride, lauralkonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide, cetrimonium chloride, cethylamine hydrofluoride, chlorallylmethenamine chloride (Quaternium-15), distearyldimonium chloride (Quaternium-5), dodecyl dimethyl ethylbenzyl ammonium chloride (Quaternium-14), Quaternium-22, Quaternium-26, Quaternium-18 hectorite, dimethylaminoethylchloride hydrochloride, cysteine hydrochloride, diethanolammonium POE (10) oletyl ether phosphate, diethanolammonium POE (3)oleyl ether phosphate, tallow alkonium chloride, dimethyl dioctadecylammoniumbentonite, stearalkonium chloride, domiphen bromide, denatonium benzoate, myristalkonium chloride, laurtrimonium chloride, ethylenediamine dihydrochloride, guanidine hydrochloride, pyridoxine HCl, iofetamine hydrochloride, meglumine hydrochloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, myrtrimonium bromide, oleyltrimonium chloride, polyquaternium-1, procainehydrochloride, cocobetaine, stearalkonium bentonite, stearalkoniumhectonite, stearyl trihydroxyethyl propylenediamine dihydrofluoride, tallowtrimonium chloride, and hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide.
  • 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective average particle size of the active agent is selected from the group consisting of less than about 1900 nm, less than about 1800 nm, less than about 1700 nm, less than about 1600 nm, less than about 1500 nm, less than about 1400 nm, less than about 1300 nm, less than about 1200 nm, less than about 1100 nm, less than about 1000, less than about 900 nm, less than about 800 nm, less than about 700 nm, less than about 600 nm, less than about 500 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, less than about 200 nm, less than about 150 nm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 75 nm, and less than about 50 nm.
  • 13. The method of claim 12, wherein at least about 70% of the active agent particles have a particle size less than the effective average particle size.
  • 14. The method of claim 12, wherein at least about 90% of the active agent particles have a particle size less than the effective average particle size.
  • 15. The method of claim 12, wherein at least about 95% of the active agent particles have a particle size less than the effective average particle size.
  • 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective average particle size of the active agent is less than about 1000 nm.
  • 17. The method of claim 1, wherein the effective average particle size of the active agent is less than about 400 nm.
  • 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, or a combination thereof.
  • 19. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition adsorbs to a biological surface selected from the group consisting of teeth, bone, nails, chitin, mucous tissue, skin, and hair.
  • 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition adsorbs to skin.
  • 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the composition adsorbed to mucous tissue.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/292,091, filed Nov. 12, 2008, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/357,514, filed Feb. 4, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,459,283, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/353,230, filed Feb. 4, 2002. The contents of these applications are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

US Referenced Citations (188)
Number Name Date Kind
3269798 Preston Aug 1966 A
3692532 Shankenberg et al. Sep 1972 A
4225581 Kreuter et al. Sep 1980 A
4524060 Mughal et al. Jun 1985 A
4540602 Motoyama et al. Sep 1985 A
4562069 Hegasy et al. Dec 1985 A
4657901 Ueda et al. Apr 1987 A
4665081 Doi et al. May 1987 A
4757059 Sorenson Jul 1988 A
4765990 Sugimoto et al. Aug 1988 A
4783484 Violante et al. Nov 1988 A
4814175 Tack et al. Mar 1989 A
4826689 Violanto May 1989 A
4863742 Panoz et al. Sep 1989 A
4880634 Speiser Nov 1989 A
4917816 Self Apr 1990 A
4997454 Violante et al. Mar 1991 A
5024843 Kuczynski et al. Jun 1991 A
5041236 Carpenter et al. Aug 1991 A
5049322 Devissaguet et al. Sep 1991 A
5118528 Fessi et al. Jun 1992 A
5118698 Fries Jun 1992 A
5133908 Stainmesse et al. Jul 1992 A
5145684 Liversidge et al. Sep 1992 A
5156767 Fitzgerald et al. Oct 1992 A
5298262 Na et al. Mar 1994 A
5302401 Liversidge et al. Apr 1994 A
5318767 Liversidge et al. Jun 1994 A
5326552 Na et al. Jul 1994 A
5328404 Bacon Jul 1994 A
5336507 Na et al. Aug 1994 A
5336662 Lee Aug 1994 A
5340564 Illig et al. Aug 1994 A
5346702 Na et al. Sep 1994 A
5349957 Yudelson Sep 1994 A
5352459 Hollister et al. Oct 1994 A
5356467 Oshlack et al. Oct 1994 A
5384124 Courteille et al. Jan 1995 A
5399353 Bartnik et al. Mar 1995 A
5399363 Liversidge et al. Mar 1995 A
5401492 Kellar et al. Mar 1995 A
5429824 June Jul 1995 A
5447710 Na et al. Sep 1995 A
5451393 Liversidge et al. Sep 1995 A
5458876 Monticello Oct 1995 A
5466440 Ruddy et al. Nov 1995 A
5470583 Na et al. Nov 1995 A
5472683 Illig Dec 1995 A
5494683 Liversidge et al. Feb 1996 A
5500204 Osifo Mar 1996 A
5503723 Ruddy et al. Apr 1996 A
5506192 Anderson et al. Apr 1996 A
5510118 Bosch et al. Apr 1996 A
5518187 Bruno et al. May 1996 A
5518738 Eickhoff et al. May 1996 A
5521168 Clark May 1996 A
5521218 Osifo May 1996 A
5525328 Bacon et al. Jun 1996 A
5527545 Santus et al. Jun 1996 A
5534270 De Castro Jul 1996 A
5543133 Swanson et al. Aug 1996 A
5552160 Liversidge et al. Sep 1996 A
5560931 Eickhoff et al. Oct 1996 A
5560932 Bagchi et al. Oct 1996 A
5565188 Wong et al. Oct 1996 A
5569448 Wong et al. Oct 1996 A
5571536 Eickhoff et al. Nov 1996 A
5573749 Illig Nov 1996 A
5573750 Singh Nov 1996 A
5573783 Desieno et al. Nov 1996 A
5580579 Ruddy et al. Dec 1996 A
5585108 Ruddy et al. Dec 1996 A
5587143 Wong Dec 1996 A
5591456 Franson et al. Jan 1997 A
5593657 Ruddy et al. Jan 1997 A
5595762 Derrieu et al. Jan 1997 A
5608101 Lee et al. Mar 1997 A
5622938 Wong Apr 1997 A
5628981 Liversidge et al. May 1997 A
5632996 Ramirez et al. May 1997 A
5643552 Illig Jul 1997 A
5656299 Kino et al. Aug 1997 A
5662883 Bagchi et al. Sep 1997 A
5665331 Bagchi et al. Sep 1997 A
5718388 Czekai et al. Feb 1998 A
5718919 Ruddy et al. Feb 1998 A
5719197 Kanios et al. Feb 1998 A
5741522 Violante et al. Apr 1998 A
5747001 Wiedmann et al. May 1998 A
5750134 Scholz et al. May 1998 A
5756546 Piorotte et al. May 1998 A
5776496 Violante et al. Jul 1998 A
5795909 Shashoua et al. Aug 1998 A
5834025 De Garavilla et al. Nov 1998 A
5853756 Mody et al. Dec 1998 A
5862999 Czekai et al. Jan 1999 A
5871747 Gengoux-Sedlik et al. Feb 1999 A
5889088 Kisuno et al. Mar 1999 A
5904929 Uekama et al. May 1999 A
5916596 Desai et al. Jun 1999 A
5938017 Wik Aug 1999 A
5939091 Eoga et al. Aug 1999 A
5972389 Shell et al. Oct 1999 A
5993781 Snell et al. Nov 1999 A
6001928 Harkness et al. Dec 1999 A
6004582 Faour et al. Dec 1999 A
6017932 Singh et al. Jan 2000 A
6045829 Liversidge et al. Apr 2000 A
6068858 Liversidge et al. May 2000 A
6090830 Myers et al. Jul 2000 A
6093420 Baichwal Jul 2000 A
6096307 Braswell et al. Aug 2000 A
6117455 Takada et al. Sep 2000 A
6153225 Lee et al. Nov 2000 A
6165506 Jain et al. Dec 2000 A
6177103 Pace et al. Jan 2001 B1
6177104 Allen et al. Jan 2001 B1
6193960 Metzger et al. Feb 2001 B1
6221400 Liversidge et al. Apr 2001 B1
6228399 Parikh et al. May 2001 B1
6239088 George et al. May 2001 B1
6264922 Wood et al. Jul 2001 B1
6267989 Liversidge et al. Jul 2001 B1
6270806 Liversidge et al. Aug 2001 B1
6303147 Gilis Oct 2001 B1
6316022 Mantelle et al. Nov 2001 B1
6316029 Jain et al. Nov 2001 B1
6368620 Liu et al. Apr 2002 B2
6375986 Ryde et al. Apr 2002 B1
6383471 Chen et al. May 2002 B1
6395300 Straub et al. May 2002 B1
6406718 Cooper Jun 2002 B1
6428814 Bosch et al. Aug 2002 B1
6431478 Reed et al. Aug 2002 B1
6432381 Liversidge et al. Aug 2002 B2
6458373 Lambert et al. Oct 2002 B1
6579352 Tanaka et al. Jun 2003 B1
6582285 Czekai et al. Jun 2003 B2
6592903 Ryde et al. Jul 2003 B2
6656504 Bosch et al. Dec 2003 B1
6908626 Cooper et al. Jun 2005 B2
6976647 Reed et al. Dec 2005 B2
20020002294 Cushman et al. Jan 2002 A1
20020012675 Jain et al. Jan 2002 A1
20020055462 Reed et al. May 2002 A1
20020065256 Karlsson et al. May 2002 A1
20020165265 Hunter et al. Nov 2002 A1
20030077329 Kipp et al. Apr 2003 A1
20030087308 Lindner et al. May 2003 A1
20030095928 McGurk et al. May 2003 A1
20030137067 Cooper et al. Jul 2003 A1
20030181411 Bosch et al. Sep 2003 A1
20030185869 Wertz et al. Oct 2003 A1
20030215502 Pruss et al. Nov 2003 A1
20030219490 Hovey et al. Nov 2003 A1
20030224058 Ryde et al. Dec 2003 A1
20030232796 Cooper et al. Dec 2003 A1
20040018242 Cunningham et al. Jan 2004 A1
20040033202 Cooper et al. Feb 2004 A1
20040033267 Merisko-Liversidge et al. Feb 2004 A1
20040058009 Ryde et al. Mar 2004 A1
20040087656 Ryde et al. May 2004 A1
20040101566 Cooper et al. May 2004 A1
20040105778 Lee et al. Jun 2004 A1
20040105889 Ryde et al. Jun 2004 A1
20040115134 Merisko-Liversidge Jun 2004 A1
20040141925 Bosch et al. Jul 2004 A1
20040156872 Bosch et al. Aug 2004 A1
20040156895 Pruitt et al. Aug 2004 A1
20040164194 Reed et al. Aug 2004 A1
20040173696 Cunningham et al. Sep 2004 A1
20040198644 Bender et al. Oct 2004 A1
20040208833 Hovey et al. Oct 2004 A1
20040229038 Cooper et al. Nov 2004 A1
20040258757 Bosch et al. Dec 2004 A1
20040258758 Gustow et al. Dec 2004 A1
20050004049 Liversidge Jan 2005 A1
20050008707 Hovey et al. Jan 2005 A1
20050019412 Bosch et al. Jan 2005 A1
20050031691 McGurk et al. Feb 2005 A1
20050042177 Ryde et al. Feb 2005 A1
20050063913 Pruitt et al. Mar 2005 A1
20050147664 Liversidge et al. Jul 2005 A1
20050233001 Hovey et al. Oct 2005 A1
20050238725 Cunningham et al. Oct 2005 A1
20050244503 Rabinow et al. Nov 2005 A1
20070048378 Swanson et al. Mar 2007 A1
20070160675 Devane et al. Jul 2007 A1
Foreign Referenced Citations (97)
Number Date Country
699996 Dec 1998 AU
2346001 Apr 2000 CA
0 137 963 Apr 1985 EP
0 186 118 Jul 1986 EP
0 186 119 Jul 1986 EP
0 186 120 Jul 1986 EP
0 220 143 Apr 1987 EP
0 249 150 Dec 1987 EP
0 315 589 May 1989 EP
0 336 898 Oct 1989 EP
0 375 662 Jun 1990 EP
0 394 889 Oct 1990 EP
0 461 079 Dec 1991 EP
0 486 153 May 1992 EP
0 499 299 Aug 1992 EP
0 499 299 Aug 1992 EP
0 506 967 Oct 1992 EP
0 549 524 Jun 1993 EP
0 577 215 Jan 1994 EP
0 600 532 Jun 1994 EP
0 601 619 Jun 1994 EP
0 601 619 Jun 1994 EP
0 602 702 Jun 1994 EP
602 702 Jun 1994 EP
0 990 437 Apr 2000 EP
1 010 435 Jun 2000 EP
1 800 666 Jun 2007 EP
23040326 Oct 1976 FR
20888773 Jun 1982 GB
2 166 651 May 1986 GB
48-043848 Nov 1970 JP
57-26615 Feb 1982 JP
61-218516 Sep 1986 JP
62-126127 Jun 1987 JP
63-005021 Jan 1988 JP
63-240936 Oct 1988 JP
2-167222 Jun 1990 JP
03066613 Mar 1991 JP
4-502318 Apr 1992 JP
4-295420 Oct 1992 JP
6-227967 Aug 1994 JP
07-112936 May 1995 JP
8-151322 Jun 1996 JP
8-507075 Jul 1996 JP
8-259460 Oct 1996 JP
9-241178 Sep 1997 JP
09-271658 Oct 1997 JP
2004-513886 May 2004 JP
WO 9015593 Dec 1990 WO
WO 9110653 Jul 1991 WO
WO 0310767 Jun 1993 WO
WO 93-010760 Jun 1993 WO
WO 9313773 Jul 1993 WO
WO 9325190 Dec 1993 WO
WO 9325194 Dec 1993 WO
WO 9325195 Dec 1993 WO
WO 9418954 Sep 1994 WO
WO 9420072 Sep 1994 WO
WO 9505164 Feb 1995 WO
WO 9527475 Oct 1995 WO
WO 9603132 Feb 1996 WO
WO 9603132 Feb 1996 WO
WO 9620698 Jul 1996 WO
WO 9624335 Aug 1996 WO
WO 9625918 Aug 1996 WO
WO 9718796 May 1997 WO
WO 9804291 Feb 1998 WO
WO 9807414 Feb 1998 WO
WO 9814174 Apr 1998 WO
WO 9829098 Jul 1998 WO
WO 9831360 Jul 1998 WO
WO 9835666 Aug 1998 WO
WO 9902665 Jan 1999 WO
WO 9925354 May 1999 WO
WO 9938493 Aug 1999 WO
WO 9965469 Dec 1999 WO
WO 0013672 Mar 2000 WO
WO 0018374 Apr 2000 WO
WO 0032189 Jun 2000 WO
WO 0047196 Aug 2000 WO
WO 0051572 Sep 2000 WO
WO 0053164 Sep 2000 WO
WO 0072973 Dec 2000 WO
WO 0117546 Mar 2001 WO
WO 0126635 Apr 2001 WO
WO 0145674 Jun 2001 WO
WO 0178505 Oct 2001 WO
WO 0178680 Oct 2001 WO
WO 0191750 Dec 2001 WO
WO 0192584 Dec 2001 WO
WO 0224163 Mar 2002 WO
WO 02067901 Sep 2002 WO
WO 02098565 Dec 2002 WO
WO 03080027 Oct 2003 WO
WO 03094894 Nov 2003 WO
WO 03103633 Dec 2003 WO
WO 0145674 Aug 2011 WO
Non-Patent Literature Citations (111)
Entry
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 13/044,450, dated Apr. 3, 2013.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 13/404,790, dated May 22, 2013.
Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Abstract dated May 17, 2013, 1 page.
EP Communication issued in related European Patent Application No. 10179341.2, dated Jun. 28, 2013.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 13/620,570, dated Jul. 26, 2013.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/068,706, dated Jul. 20, 2001.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/483,188, dated Jun. 23, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 09/337,675, dated Aug. 1, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/117,982, dated Jul. 8, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/076,247, dated Apr. 14, 2011.
Purohit et al., Inhibition of Tumor Necrosis Factor a-Stimulated Aromatase Activity by Microtubule-Stabilizing Agents, Pacilitaxel and 2- Methoxyestradiol, Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, vol. 261, Issue 1, Jul. 22, 1999, pp. 214-217.
Arsenault et al., Taxol Involution of Collagen-Indued Arthritis: Ultrastructural Correlation with the Inhibition of Synovitis and Neovascularization Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology, vol. 86, Issue 3, Mar. 1998, pp. 280-289.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/320,431, dated Apr. 15, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,250, dated Apr. 25, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,278, dated Apr. 27, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/928,289, dated Apr. 27, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/667,470, dated May 9, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/367,716, dated May 19, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/980,720, dated May 26, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/677,857, dated Jun. 7, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/701,064, dated Feb. 14, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/619,539, dated Mar. 15, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/870,722, dated Mar. 29, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/870,745, dated Apr. 1, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/980,720, dated Dec. 22, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 09/337,675, dated Jan. 11, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/117,982, dated Feb. 2, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/292,395, dated Dec. 6, 2010.
European Search Report cited in related EP Patent Application No. EP 10010944, dated Dec. 13, 2010.
Canadian Office Action cited in related Canadian Patent Application No. 2488499, dated Dec. 16, 2010.
Canadian Office Action cited in related Canadian Patent Application No. 2475092, dated Jan. 11, 2011.
Calvo et al., “Effect of lysozyme on the stability of polyester nanocapsules and nanoparticles: stabilization approaches,” Biomaterials, vol. 18, No. 19, pp. 1305-1310 (1997), [Abstract].
Tian et al., Structural Stability Effects on Adsorption of Bacteriophage T4 Lysozyme to Colloidal Silica, Colloid, Interface Sci., vol. 200, pp. 146-154 (1998), [Abstract].
European Search Report for related EP Patent Application No. 10179894, dated Nov. 4, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/697,703, dated Nov. 9, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/367,716, dated Nov. 10, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/117,982, dated Dec. 1, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/667,470, dated Jul. 27, 2010.
Decision on Rejection cited in related Japanese Patent Application No. 2001-583733, dated Jun. 9, 2010, 3 pgs.
“Design and Evaluation of Oral Administration Drug Formulation”, Pharmaceutical Industry Time Signal Company, pp. 167-168 (1995).
Office Action dated Oct. 23, 2009 for related U.S. Appl. No. 11/898,274.
Office Action dated Oct. 5, 2009 for related U.S. Appl. No. 11/980,720.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/667,470, dated Dec. 29, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/701,064, dated Nov. 23, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/979,240, dated Dec. 16, 2009.
Notice of Reasons for Rejection cited in related Japanese Patent Application No. 2004-510760 dated Dec. 2, 2009, 4 pgs.
Notice of Reasons for Rejectoin cited in related Japanese Patent Application No. 2004-521891 dated Dec. 22, 2009, 3 pgs.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 09/337,675, dated Feb. 18, 2010.
Canadian Office Action for related Canadian Patent Application No. 2,488,499, dated Feb. 8, 2010.
Notice of Reasons for Rejection cited in related Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-565446, dated Jan. 20, 2010, 4 pgs.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/697,703, dated Feb. 18, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/980,720, dated Mar. 29, 2010.
Butler et al., “Effects of Protein Stabilizing Agents on Thermal Backbone Motions: A Disulfide Trapping Study,” Biochemistry, vol. 35, pp. 10595-10600 (1996).
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/979,231, dated Mar. 16, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/292,395, dated May 26, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/619,539 dated Sep. 8, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/979,231 dated Sep. 16, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/697,716 dated Sep. 15, 2009.
Notice of Rejections completed Aug. 24, 2009 for related Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-590934, and Notice of Rejections completed Apr. 24, 2008 listing documents A1-A10 and prior art references 1-5.
Notice of Rejections completed Aug. 26, 2009 for related Japanese Patent Application No. 2001-583733.
Matsumoto et al., “Physical Properties of Solid Molecular dispersions of Indomethacin with Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and Poly(vinylpyrrolidone-co-vinyl-acelate) in Relation to Indomethacin Crystallization,” Pharmaceutical Research (1999), vol. 16, No. 11, pp. 1722-1726.
Hulsmann et al., “Melt extrusion—an alternative method for enhancing the dissolution rate of 17β-estradiol hemihydrate,” European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics (2000), vol. 49, No. 3, pp. 237-242.
Vojnovic et al., “Formulation and evalustion of vinylpyrrolidone/vinylacetate copolymer microspheres and griseofulvin,” J. Microencapsulation (1993), vol. 10, No. 1, pp. 89-99.
Bogdanova et al., “Solid Dispersions of Isoropylantipyrin,” Labo-Pharma-Probl. Tech. (1984), vol. 32, No. 348, pp. 835-837.
Zingone et al., “Characterization and dissolution study of solid dispersions of theophylline and indomethacin with PVPNA copolymers,” STP Pharma Sciences (1992), vol. 2, No. 2, pp. 186-192.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/979,231 dated Mar. 13, 2009, 15 pgs.
Notice of Rejections for Japanese Patent Applications No. 2001-529425, dated Jan. 6, 2009, 5 pgs.
Calvo et al., “Development of Positively Charged Colloidal Drug Carriers: Chitosan-Coated Polyester nanocapsules and Submicron-Emulsions,” Colloid. Polym. Sci., 275, 46-53 (1997).
Rock et al., “Control of Calcium Carbonate Particle Size and Shape by Precipitation form CTAB/Alcohol/Hexadecane Mixtures,” Colloid. Polym. Sci., 275, pp. 893-896 (1997).
Kigasawa et al., “Biopharmaceutical Studies of Drug. IV. Studies on the Improvement of Dissoultion Properties and Gastrointestinal Absorption of 2-oxo-3-[4-(1-oxo-2-isoindolinyl)phenyl]butanamide,” Database Biosis ′Online!, Biosciences Information Service, Philadelphia, PA, US; 1981, Database Accession No. PREV 198274019653, XP002261016, abstract & Yakugaku Zasshi, vol. 101, No. 8, 1981, pp. 723-732, ISSN: 0031-6903.
Kigasawa et al., “Biopharmaceutical Studies of Drugs, V. Dissolution Properties and Bioavailability of Ground Mixtures of Poorly Water Soluble Drugs and Soluble Proteins,” Database CA ′Online!, Chemical Abstracts Service, Columbus Ohio, US; Database accession No. 95:156481 CA, abstract & Yakugaku Zasshi, vol. 101, No. 8, 1981, pp. 733-739, ISSN: 0031-6903.
Guidance for Industry, Levothyroxine Sodium Tablets-In Vivo Pharmacokinetic and Bioavailability Studies and in Vitro Dissolution Testing, U.S. Department of Health and Hman Serives, Food and Drug Administration, Dec. 2000, pp. 1-8.
Physician's Desk Reference, 57th Edition, pp. 1433, 1438, 1497, 1499, 1522, 1525, 1528, 1532 (2003).
Lindahl et al., “Charecterization of Fluids from the Stomach and Proximal Jejunum in Men and Women”, Pharmaceutical Research, vol. 14, No. 4, pp. 497-502, 1997.
Office Action dated Nov. 12, 2008 for related U.S. Appl. No. 10/667,470, 20 pages.
Damascelli et al., Intraarterial Chemotherapy with Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil Free Paclitaxel, Incorporated in Albumin Nanoparticles (ABI-007) Phase I Study of Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck and Anal Canal: Preliminary Evidence of Clinical Activity; 2001 Cancer, vol. 92, No. 10, pp. 2592-2602.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,278, dated Dec. 28, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,250, dated Dec. 29, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,289, dated Dec. 30, 2009.
Notice of Reasons for Rejections cited in related Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-577857, dated Mar. 29, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,250, dated Aug. 4, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,278, dated Aug. 4, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/928,289, dated Aug. 3, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 09/337,675, dated Aug. 30, 2010.
Josefsson et al., “Suppression of Type II Collagen-Induced Arthritis by the Endogenous Estrogen Metabolite 2-Methoxyestradiol,” Arthritis & Rheumatism, vol. 40, Issue 1, pp. 154-163 (1997).
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/870,722, dated Oct. 7, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/870,745, dated Oct. 7, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/076,247, dated Aug. 5, 2010.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/320,431, dated Sep. 30, 2010.
Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10th edition, Merriam-Webster Incorp.: Sprinfield, MA, 1993, pp. 311.
International Search Report for related International Patent Application No. PCT/US2009/036965, completed Jun. 19, 2009.
Written Opinion of the International Searching Authority for related International Patent Application No. PCT/US2009/036965, completed Jun. 19, 2009.
Notice of Rejections for related Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-577857 completed Jul. 6, 2009, 3 pgs.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/898,274 dated May 5, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/677,857 dated Jul. 8, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/697,703 dated Jul. 9, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/667,470 dated May 19, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/697,716 dated Apr. 15, 2009.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 11/650,412, dated May 12, 2009.
Notice of Rejections for Japanese Patent Application No. 2001-583733, dated Jan. 6, 2009, 13 pgs.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/701,064, dated Feb. 12, 2009, 13 pgs.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/729,018, dated Oct. 14, 2011.
Notice of Reasons for Rejection cited in related Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-227248, dated Oct. 31, 2011.
Canadian Office Action cited in related Canadian Patent Application No. 2,488,499, dated Oct. 17, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 10/701,064, dated Nov. 14, 2011.
Written Opinion cited in related Singapore Patent Application No. 201006315-4 dated Dec. 2, 2011.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 09/337,675, dated Feb. 7, 2012.
Office Action cited in related U.S. Appl. No. 12/729,018, dated Feb. 23, 2012.
Office Action cited in related Canadian Patent Application No. 2,492,488, dated Feb. 28, 2012.
Czeslik et al., Effect of Temperature on the Conformation of Lysozyme Adsorbed to Silica Particles, Phys. Chem. Phys., vol. 3, pp. 235-239 (2001).
Abraham, “LXXVII, Some Properties of Egg-White Lysozyme,” Biochemical Journ., pp. 622-630 (1939).
Related Publications (1)
Number Date Country
20130224123 A1 Aug 2013 US
Provisional Applications (1)
Number Date Country
60353230 Feb 2002 US
Continuations (2)
Number Date Country
Parent 12292091 Nov 2008 US
Child 13693858 US
Parent 10357514 Feb 2003 US
Child 12292091 US