Technologies

Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems

Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SEDDS)

Through proprietary in-house technologies, we are able to encapsulate not only lipophilic drugs but also hydrophilic macromolecules, including therapeutic peptides and nucleotides, within our SEDDS formulations - opening new avenues for the non-invasive delivery of challenging drug classes.

ThioMatrix is also specialized on the design and development of self-nanoemulsifying and self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS; SMEDDS) collectively summarized as self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS). In particular we develop SEDDS providing:

  • Protection against presystemic metabolism

  • Enhanced mucus permeation

  • Strong mucoadhesive properties

  • Excellent mucosal spreading

  • Improved epithelial permeation

The oily droplets formed by self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) provide a protective barrier against presystemic metabolism. Enzymes responsible for the degradation of drugs—such as peptidases and nucleases—are unable to diffuse into these lipid-based droplets, thereby shielding encapsulated drugs from enzymatic breakdown. Additionally, thiol/disulfide exchange reactions between therapeutic peptides or proteins and endogenous glutathione or thiol-containing dietary proteins are effectively prevented within the droplet environment.

SEDDS droplets are among the most effective nanocarrier systems in terms of mucus penetration. This property is further enhanced by incorporating surfactants with PEG substructures like polysorbate, which assemble on the droplet surface, reducing adhesion to mucus and increasing "slipperiness"; This allows for more efficient transport through the mucus barrier

While some formulations aim for mucus penetration, others benefit from strong mucoadhesion to prolong residence time at the site of absorption. By incorporating mucoadhesive polymers such as chitosans or polyacrylates, SEDDS can be tailored to adhere effectively to mucosal surfaces

For many mucosal drug delivery applications, rapid and uniform spreading across the target tissue is crucial. Properly formulated SEDDS droplets possess excellent spreading capabilities, ensuring broad coverage and effective drug contact with the mucosal surface

SEDDS have demonstrated strong permeation-enhancing effects in numerous studies. These systems can significantly increase the absorption of (poly)peptide drugs across mucosal barriers. Moreover, they have shown the ability to facilitate cellular uptake of DNA-based therapeutics, offering promising potential for oral gene delivery