Algammulin, a new vaccine adjuvant comprising gamma inulin particles containing alum: preparation and in vitro properties.

Crystallization of inulin with alum forms a fine (1-2 micron) suspension of electron-dense ovoids; the alum is embedded in inulin particles, which are then converted to the immune stimulant polymorphic form, gamma inulin. This very stable hybrid preparation is termed Algammulin. Preferred conditions for its preparation are described. The alum still adsorbs protein. Gamma inulin is equally able to activate the alternative pathway of complement in vitro whether free or combined as Algammulin. Gamma inulin, either free or combined as Algammulin, dissolved on heating over a narrow temperature range that can be used to characterize the polymorphic form of the inulin.