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CAS 9003-11-6 Non-Ionic Surfactant Non-Ionic Surfactant USP Grade EP Grade JP Grade

Poloxamer 188

IUPAC: Poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(propylene glycol)-block-poly(ethylene glycol) (a-b-a triblock copolymer) View on PubChem
CAS NUMBER
9003-11-6
MOL. FORMULA
(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)a --- a˜80, b˜27
MOL. WEIGHT
7,680--9,510 g/mol (avg. 8,400 Da)
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Scientific Overview

The amphiphilic PEO-PPO-PEO architecture of Poloxamer 188 allows it to insert into and reseal damaged lipid bilayers, giving it cytoprotective and membrane-sealing properties. Its low toxicity profile and surface-tension-lowering behavior make it valuable in parenteral formulations, cell culture media, and cryopreservation systems.

Poloxamer 188 is a non-ionic triblock copolymer surfactant composed of a central hydrophobic polyoxypropylene (PPO) chain flanked by two hydrophilic polyoxyethylene (PEO) chains. Widely used across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and cell-therapy applications, it functions as a solubilizer, emulsifier, and membrane-stabilizing excipient.

Full Technical Data
Chemical Name Poloxamer 188 (Lutrol F68 / Kolliphor P188 / Pluronic F68)
CAS Number 9003-11-6
IUPAC Name Poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(propylene glycol)-block-poly(ethylene glycol) (a-b-a triblock copolymer)
Molecular Formula (C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)a --- a˜80, b˜27
Molecular Weight 7,680--9,510 g/mol (avg. 8,400 Da) g/mol
Reaction Scheme
Propylene Oxide
NA
NA
Poloxamer 188
NA
Commercial Applications

Parenteral Formulation

Used as a solubilizer/emulsifier in IV formulations and drug delivery systems.

Cell Therapy & Bioprocessing

Membrane-protective additive in cell culture media, reducing shear-induced cell damage in bioreactors.

Cryopreservation

Stabilizes cell membranes during freeze-thaw cycles in biologics and cell-therapy products.

Topical & Cosmetic Formulations

Functions as a thickening agent, gel binder, and emulsion stabilizer.

Market Therapeutic Focus
NON-IONIC SURFACTANT PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURING CELL & GENE THERAPY BIOPROCESSING SPECIALTY CHEMICALS CRO/CDMO
Scientific Literature

Poloxamers and Their Applications in Drug Delivery

Authors: Kabanov, A.V. et al.

J. Controlled Release

DOI: 10.1016/S0168-3659(02)00009-3

Membrane-Sealing Poloxamers in Cellular Injury

Authors: Lee, R.C. et al.

Ann. Biomed. Eng.

DOI: 10.1114/1.1512663

Pluronic Block Copolymers for Overcoming Drug Resistance

Authors: Batrakova, E.V.; Kabanov, A.V.

J. Controlled Release

DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2008.04.013
Peer Queries & FAQs
Why is the PEO-PPO-PEO block structure important?
The hydrophobic PPO core enables membrane/lipid interaction while the hydrophilic PEO chains impart water solubility, giving Poloxamer 188 its surfactant and membrane-sealing behavior.
What applications use Poloxamer 188?
Parenteral drug formulation, cell culture supplementation, cryoprotection, and membrane stabilization in cell/gene therapy manufacturing.
Is Poloxamer 188 compendial grade?
Yes, USP, Ph.Eur., and JP grades are available.
What is the recommended storage condition?
Store at room temperature in a tightly sealed container, protected from moisture, to prevent oxidative degradation.

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