earticle

영어

Research and development of globular seamless capsules at Morishita Jintan Co., Ltd. has been
performed for 35 years using an original dropping method. The application of the capsules
with living microorganisms varies from DDS (Drug Delivery System) to as far as bioreactors.
1. Background of research and development Bifidobacterium longum has been one of the well known probiotics for benefit and efficacy to human intestinal condition. As B. longum is affected unfavorably by gastric acid, it was difficult to deliver significant numbers of B. longum alive to the intestines via the stomach. Delivery of living B. longum to the intestines has long been anticipated for improvements of human health.
2. Application for enteric DDS The concept of triple-layer capsule was developed to offer acid-resistant and pH-dependent disintegrated functions to its layers for protection of B. longum from the gastric acid and the release of viable B. longum in the intestines. The encapsulation of freeze-dried, viable B. longum JBL-01 was realized using a concentric triple nozzle. When tested in human volunteer subjects, the oral administration of the resultant capsule containing B. longum JBL-01 significantly relieved constipation and diarrhea. The capsules with living B. longum JBL-01 have been commercialized as supplements and drugs, and currently become some of the leading products of Morishita Jintan Co., Ltd. Recently, it was demonstrated in hemodialysis patients that the oral administration of this capsule decreased the blood serum levels of uremic toxins (phosphate, homocysteine and indoxyl sulfate).
3. Application for immobilized microorganisms Culture liquid was also encapsulated using the triple nozzle, and cell growth was observed in the capsule in a medium, i.e. incubation inside the capsule. Using a porous synthetic resin, entrapment of living microorganisms has successfully been practiced. This plastic capsule, with stable shell, can immobilize microorganisms to make itself function as a mini-bioreactor. As the density of microorganisms become very high in the capsules, the capsules can potentially process the fermentation to produce such as bio-ethanol, lactic acid or fine chemicals much economically than conventional method.