Preparation and In vitro Evaluation of Hepatitis B Vaccine Encapsulated Chitosan Microparticles

Adjuvant aimed to increase the immunogenicity of vaccines remain a focus in vaccine development. The purpose of this research work was to develop an alternative adjuvant for hepatitis B vaccine (HBsAg) to elicit a long lasting immune response after a single dose. The HBsAg encapsulated chitosan microparticles were prepared by emulsion cross linking technique. The newly developed microparticles were evaluated for vaccine content, particle size distribution and in vitro release study. The morphological characters were examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The release profile was investigated by the measurement of antigen in the releasing medium at various intervals. The microparticles were release antigen about 6 weeks in vitro. The results indicated that the chitosan polymeric microparticles showing sustained release of HBsAg with an initial burst effect.