Effect of pH on the formation of lysosome-alginate beads for antimicrobial activity

In this study, we developed lysosome-alginate beads for application as an oral drug delivery system (ODDS). The beads harboring lysosomes, which have antimicrobial activity, and various concentrations of alginate were characterized and optimized. For application as an ODDS, pH-dependent lysosome-alginate beads were generated, and the level of lysosome release was investigated by using antimicrobial tests. At low pH, lysosomes were not released from the lysosome-alginate beads; however, at neutral pH, similar to the pH in the intestine, lysosome release was confirmed, as determined by a high antimicrobial activity. This study shows the potential of such an ODDS for the in vivo treatment of infection with pathogens.