New Membrane for Cell Encapsulation

Abstract

A new membrane for microencapsulation of Langerhans islets is proposed. To obtain good biocompatibility properties, the membrane is prepared from polyethyleneimine, with heparin and protamine sulfate added. Investigation of the permeability of the membrane was based on Fick''s law of diffusion into and out of a sphere. It was observed that glucose and insulin easily diffuse into and out of microcapsules. Membrane itself is not permeable for human albumin and .gamma.-globulins.