Fucopol polysaccharide for encapsulation of hydrophobic active ingredients
FucoPol is a biodegradable bacterial polysaccharide ideal for encapsulating hydrophobic active ingredients, forming stable microcapsules that retain bioactivity. This technology is at TRL 4 and offers applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food industries.
Overview
FucoPol is a bacterial polysaccharide that serves as a biodegradable and biocompatible encapsulation matrix for hydrophobic active ingredients. Produced in a bioreactor, FucoPol forms stable microcapsules, retaining the bioactivity of encapsulated substances. Its composition includes fucose, galactose, glucose, and glucuronic acid, making it suitable for various applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food industries.
Technical specifications
FucoPol is a high molecular weight polymer (above 1 MDA) with demonstrated in vitro cytocompatibility according to ISO 10993-5:2009. It can form films and cation-mediated hydrogels, as well as stabilize emulsions with hydrophobic compounds. The encapsulation process involves spray drying to form smooth surface spherical microcapsules, with diameters ranging from 0.5 to 27 μm and wall thickness below 1 μm. The production cost is approximately $5/kg, and it allows for a loading of 0.122 g/g of active ingredient.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4 (TRL 4), indicating that it has been validated in laboratory settings. Future plans include optimizing microcapsule preparation for higher loading efficiency and validating the encapsulation of other hydrophobic compounds, with biodegradability testing according to ISO 17556:2012 planned over the next 24 months.
About Universidade NOVA de Lisboa
NOVA University Lisbon is a comprehensive public research institution spanning multiple campuses across the Lisbon metro area, combining selective excellence with an applied, collaborative ethos. Industry engages through co‑located laboratories at FCT NOVA and a science and technology park adjacent to the Caparica campus, alongside structured corporate partnership programs. Clinical translation is enabled by NOVA Medical School’s integration with Lisbon’s hospital network and clinical academic consortia, providing access to patient populations and real‑world settings. Research is supported by competitive European and Portuguese national funding, including Horizon Europe and the Foundation for Science and Technology, complemented by industry‑sponsored work. University‑wide innovation offices and school‑level TTOs provide IP, licensing, and startup support as a clear entry point for corporate R&D.
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