Abstract: The present invention relates to an oral drug delivery system, and in particular to modified amino acids and modified amino acid derivatives for use as a delivery system of sensitive agents such as bioactive peptides. The modified amino acids and derivatives can form non-covalent mixtures with active biological agents and in an alternate embodiment can releasably carry active agents. Modified amino acids can also form durg containing microspheres. These mixtures are suitable for oral administration of biologically active agents to animals. Methods for the preparation of such amino acids are also disclosed.

Abstract: A conveyor system including a buffer store for the temporary retention of articles delivered by the conveyor to the store. Articles are raised out of contact with the conveyor by two ramps one passing under a flange on each side of the article. The conveyor and ramps are downwardly inclined in this area so the article travels along the ramps under gravity until hitting a stop. The articles are in two parts, each upper part being removed from the store by a robot and normally only the lower, reusable part being returned to the conveyor. A second stop is also provided adjacent the first to permit the return of only one article base to the conveyor. Sensors are provided to detect the present of articles in the store.