Biocompatible cationic detergents and uses therefor

摘要

Provided is a method for preparing a true, homogeneous solution of a pharmaceutical substance dissolved in an organic solvent in which the pharmaceutical substance is not normally soluble. Solubilization is obtained by forming a hydrophobic ion pair complex involving the pharmaceutical substance and an amphiphilic material. The resulting organic solution may be further processed to prepare pharmaceutical powders. A biodegradable polymer may be co-dissolved with the pharmaceutical substance and the amphiphilic material and may be incorporated into a pharmaceutical powder. A preferred method for preparing pharmaceutical powders is to subject the organic solution to gas antisolvent precipitation using a supercritical gas antisolvent such as carbon dioxide. Also provided is a method for making hollow particles having a fiber-like shape which would provide enhanced retention time in the stomach if ingested by a human or animal host. Further provided are novel biocompatible cationic surfactants and uses therefor, including the delivery, in vitro and in vivo, of nucleic acids into cells to transform the cells.