Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics Research Group

Papers in Scientific Journals

Novel amphiphilic chitosan micelles as carriers for hydrophobic anticancer drugs

Abstract

Chitosan was grafted with O-methyl-O′-succinylpolyethylene glycol and oleic acid after a two-step carbodiimide coupling. The structural and physicochemical characterization of the compounds confirmed the successful conjugation of the hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties to the chitosan backbone. The amphiphilic chitosan derivative obtained allowed the formation of polymeric micelles with an average size of 140 nm, a polydispersity index <0.234, and a positive superficial charge. Camptothecin, used as a model hydrophobic drug, was successfully carried into the polymeric micelles with an encapsulation efficiency of 78%. The in vitro drug release was evaluated in simulated gastrointestinal fluids, exhibiting a low release of camptothecin in gastric media and a controlled release in intestinal fluids. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that chitosan micelles were able to stabilize camptothecin, protecting up to 75% of the drug from hydrolysis, preserving its active lactone form. This new chitosan amphiphilic system exhibits great potential to load hydrophobic drugs, acting as a promising delivery system.

Journal
Materials Science and Engineering: C
Volume
112
Pagination
1109020
Publisher
Elesevier
ISSN
0928-4931
URL
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0928493119344224
Keywords
Chitosan, PEG; drug delivery
Rights
Restricted Access
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Status
published
Year of Publication
2020
DOI
10.1016/j.msec.2020.110920
Date Published
2020-07-20
Search Google ScholarGenerate BibTexDownload RTF
This website uses cookies. By using this website you consent to our use of these cookies. For more information visit our Policy Page.