Physicochemical characterization of simulated intestinal fed-state fluids containing lyso-phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol

Abstract

An array of simulated intestinal fed-state fluids, where phosphatidylcholine (PC) was replaced by lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and cholesterol (Chol) was added, were visualized with Cryogenic Transmission Electron Microscopy (Cryo-TEM). Micelles were the dominating structural features, emphasizing the micellar-forming characteristics of LPC. Upon increase of the monoglyceride (MG) level, unilamellar vesicles and multivesicular structures were formed. These findings suggest the solubilization of poorly soluble drugs might be affected by the intermediate colloidal phases produced in the gastrointestinal tract.