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Entrapment ability and release profile of corticosteroids from starch-based microparticles
G A Silva1, F J Costa, N M Neves
13B's Research Group-Biomaterials, Biodegradables, Biomimetics, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal. gsilva@dep.uminho.pt
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research. Part A
|March 12, 2005
Summary
Starch microparticles effectively loaded and controlled the release of corticosteroids like dexamethasone over 30 days. These findings highlight their potential for drug delivery applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Starch-based microparticles previously demonstrated bioactivity and noncytotoxicity.
- Controlled release systems are crucial for effective biomedical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the entrapment and controlled release of three model corticosteroids (dexamethasone, 16alpha-methylprednisolone, 16alpha-methylprednisolone acetate) using starch-based microparticles.
- To assess the influence of corticosteroid structure on loading efficiency and release kinetics.
Main Methods:
- Entrapment of dexamethasone (DEX), 16alpha-methylprednisolone (MP), and 16alpha-methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) into starch-based microparticles at 10% wt/wt.
- Evaluation of loading efficiencies and in vitro release profiles over 30 days.
- Analysis of release kinetics in relation to corticosteroid molecular structure and microparticle network degradation.
Main Results:
- Loading efficiencies varied: MPA (84%) and DEX (82%) were highest, followed by MP (51%).
- A differential burst release was observed in the first 24 hours (DEX/MP ~25%, MPA ~12%).
- Controlled release over 30 days was achieved, with MPA exhibiting a slower release rate due to its bulkier, hydrophobic nature.
Conclusions:
- Starch-based microparticles demonstrate significant potential as carriers for controlled corticosteroid delivery.
- The release profile is influenced by both the drug's physicochemical properties and the microparticle matrix degradation.
- These systems offer a promising platform for sustained drug delivery in biomedical applications.