Molecular Cages
Molecular Cage Technology: Protecting and Delivering Actives with Cyclodextrins
What are Cyclodextrins?
Cyclodextrins (CDs) are cyclic oligosaccharides that possess a toroidal (donut-shaped) structure. Their hydrophobic interior and hydrophilic exterior enable them to form host-guest complexes with a variety of molecules. This ability allows CDs to “trap” other molecules inside their structure, stabilizing sensitive ingredients and improving their solubility, bioavailability, and controlled release profiles.
Enhanced Molecular Recognition and Clathrate Formation
THERIOPHARM employs advanced Cyclodextrin derivatives that improve the molecular recognition properties of CDs, enhancing their selectivity and affinity toward specific active ingredients. These derivatives are modified to increase the binding capacity of CDs, allowing them to interact more efficiently with selected hosts. The result is a highly stable clathrate complex – a cage-like structure that encloses the active molecule, shielding it from environmental factors that could degrade or destabilize it.
Advantages of Cyclodextrin Encapsulation
Improved Stability: Encapsulated actives are protected from heat, light, and oxidation, which can degrade unprotected ingredients.
Enhanced Solubility and Bioavailability: Cyclodextrins can improve the solubility of hydrophobic molecules, making them more effective in aqueous environments.
Controlled Release: The host-guest complex allows for controlled release, delivering the active ingredient over a prolonged period, which can enhance therapeutic efficacy.
Reduced Side Effects: By targeting specific molecules, CDs can deliver actives precisely, minimizing exposure to non-targeted areas and reducing potential side effects.
Applications Across Industries
Cyclodextrin-based molecular cages are widely applicable across pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries. They can stabilize volatile or sensitive actives in skin-care formulations, enhance the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, and even protect nutritional supplements from premature degradation.
THERIOPHARM’s Molecular Cage Technology with cyclodextrins offers a powerful solution to modern challenges in product formulation and delivery, transforming the way active ingredients are stabilized, protected, and delivered.