Effects of β-Sitosteryl Sulfate on the Properties of DPPC Liposomes

The effect of beta-sitosteryl sulfate (PSO4) on the liposomal size, stability, fluidity, and dispersibility of DPPC liposomes prepared by vortex mixing, bath-sonication, and probe-sonication has been studied. PSO4 significantly decreases the particle size of the multilamellar liposomes (MLVs). The sizes of the vortex-mixed and the bath-sonicated liposomes vary as a function of PSO(4 )concentration. On the other hand, PSO(4 )has only little effect on the particle sizes of probe sonicated liposomes. In some cases, the liposomal stability at higher PSO(4 )concentrations depends on the preparation method. PSO(4 )improves the dispersihility of the DPPC liposomes and enhances their hydration. It also increases the fluidity of the liposomes prepared by each method. Our results suggest that liposomes consisting of DPPC and PSO4 can be suitable as a cosmetic or pharmaceutical ingredient for the effective delivery of the active components into the body.