Optimizing Poloxamer 188

Poloxamer 188 is a non-ionic surfactant used in biopharmaceutical applications to stabilize proteins in liquid formulations and protect mammalian cells from shear stress in cell cultures. Its structure consists of hydrophilic polyethylene oxide (PEO) and hydrophobic polypropylene oxide (PPO) blocks, making it effective against interfacial and mechanical stresses.

Higher hydrophobicity in Poloxamer 188 enhances protein stabilization by preventing aggregation through surface adsorption and direct protein binding. This property makes it ideal for monoclonal antibody formulations. Conversely, lower hydrophobicity and molecular weight improve shear protection in cell cultures by reducing bubble-induced cell damage in bioreactors.

MilliporeSigma offers three Poloxamer 188 Emprove® Expert variants optimized for different applications:

1. Poloxamer 188 Emprove® Expert Ph Eur, NF (137112) – High hydrophobicity and molecular weight for superior protein stabilization.
2. Poloxamer 188 Emprove® Expert compendial cell culture grade (137197) – Balanced molecular weight and hydrophobicity for regulated cell culture applications.
3. Poloxamer 188 Emprove® Expert cell culture optimized (137097) – Low hydrophobicity for enhanced cell protection in non-compendial processes.

Batch-to-batch consistency in molecular weight and hydrophobicity is crucial for ensuring reliability in bioprocessing. The Emprove® Expert portfolio guarantees high purity, low endotoxin levels, and regulatory compliance, supporting risk mitigation in pharmaceutical manufacturing.