Article from PolySciTech regarding polymer analysis

PolySciTech (www.polyscitech.com) provides a wide array of biodegradable polymers and related block copolymers. In addition to this, contract analysis is also offered for a variety of polymer-based and other samples. Recently our group has published a paper detailing methodology of polymer analysis post-formulation in parental products. Read more: Garner, John, Sarah Skidmore, Haesun Park, Kinam Park, Stephanie Choi, and Yan Wang. "A Protocol for Assay of Poly (lactide-co-glycolide) in Clinical Products." International Journal of Pharmaceutics (2015). http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517315301605

“Abstract: Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) is the key component of long acting drug products responsible for providing sustained release in a controlled manner. The objective of the current study was to develop and validate an analytical protocol to determine key properties of PLGA used in commercial long-acting drug products. Procedures to isolate PLGA from commercial products have been established and the key properties of PLGA, such as polymer molecular weight, lactide:glycolide (L:G) ratio, and nature of polymer end-cap, have been determined. Identification of the polymer end-cap was confirmed by using two PLGA polymers with acid and ester end-caps. Trelstar® and Risperdal Consta® were chosen as model products. The calculated L:G ratios of PLGA used in Trelstar® and Risperdal® are 52:48 and 78:22, respectively. PLGAs from both Trelstar® and Risperdal Consta® possess ester end-caps. Since the properties of specific PLGA in clinically used formulations are not readily available, this protocol will be useful in developing PLGA-based long acting drug products.”