Our research team is involved in the study of drug loaded PLGA nanoparticles and nano lipid carriers (NLCs). We are planing to use Wyatt Heleos II MALS for particle size and PDI. Any insights/ protocols about this will be greatly appreciated. Are there any other technique to study zeta potential of these nano-formulations besides Zetasizer?
Gayathri Renganathan
In the MALS method, protein concentration and scattering intensity versus angle can be used to determine the molar mass of a scattering particle. Your particles contain different molecules. Therefore, the method cannot be determined to determine the average size and size distribution. SAXS and dynamic light scattering can be used if the particle size is within the range of this method.
Zeta potential, PdI index and the hydrodynamic radius are easily measured by DLS/ELS techniques, for example, ZetaSizer (Malvern Panalytical) is a robust batch method for fast measurements and with low volume cell, only approximately 20 uL of the sample is needed. From the MAL(L)S, you will get the gyration radius (which can inform you about the mass distribution in your particles), molar mass and second virial coefficient. It also depends if you are using MALS in online mode (SEC, FFF) or batch mode. Wyatt on its website provides, after free registration, a variety of tech/application notes that will surely be helpful.
Hi Gayathri Renganathan , as stated above, DLS is ideal for size and polydispersity, and ELS for zeta potential.
In certain cases, static light scattering (in your case for multiple angles) may be able to get insight into the fraction of loaded versus empty nanoparticles. Below are three links you may find useful
- https://www.materials-talks.com/blog/2014/08/12/multi-angle-light-scattering-mals/
- https://www.materials-talks.com/blog/2014/05/27/size-exclusion-chromatography-when-to-use-mals/
- https://www.malvernpanalytical.com/en/learn/knowledge-center/application-notes/AN200930GeneTherapySEC.html
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