Page 194 - Binder2

When a therapeutic protein is expressed inside a plant
cell—especially in chloroplasts or seeds—it becomes
encapsulated in a natural fiber matrix. This creates a
built-in, biodegradable barrier that shields the protein from:

• Acidic degradation in the stomach
• Proteolytic cleavage in the duodenum
• Microbial fermentation in the upper intestine

The protein isn't destroyed. It's escorted.

This protective effect buys time. Enough time for the
encapsulated protein to reach the distal small intestine,
where immune-interactive structures like Peyer’s patches
and gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) are waiting.

Enhancing the Journey: Formulation Strategies

For certain applications, natural protection from the plant
matrix may be sufficient. But in other cases, especially
where dosing must be precise or exposure finely tuned—
additional formulation layers are used to optimize gut
delivery.

Key enhancements include:

• Lyophilization (freeze-drying):
Removes water while preserving protein
conformation. Increases protein concentration,
enhances shelf life, and reduces degradation during
digestion. Lyophilized plant material can be milled
into powder and precisely dosed in capsules or
sachets.

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