Skip to main content
CRS 2026 Annual Meeting & Exposition Main banner

Nanomedicine and Nanoscale Delivery (Focus Group – NND)

Innovative Synthetic Sugars for Stable, Low-viscosity High-Concentration Biologic Formulations

Margarida Ferreira – Analytical Scientist, Hovione; Eva Lourenço – Analytical Scientist, Hovione; Luis Marques – Senior Scientist, Hovione; Pilar Portela – Analytical Scientist, Hovione
Introduction:

High-concentration protein formulations required for subcutaneous delivery present unique stability challenges, including aggregation, chemical degradation, and elevated viscosity that are not adequately addressed by conventional excipients. This study examines whether structurally engineered synthetic sugars, inspired in sugars existing in nature, can modulate protein–protein interactions and solution properties to improve the stability and viscosity of high-concentration liquid biopharmaceutical formulations.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand why conventional excipients have limited performance in high-concentration biologics formulations.
  • Demonstrate how synthetic sugars can reduce viscosity and enhance protein stability using case study examples.
  • Evaluate the potential impact of novel excipients on manufacturability, delivery, and patient outcomes.