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Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
Published on: June 20, 2019
Drug-polymer microparticles produced by supercritical assisted atomization.
Ernesto Reverchon1, Alessandra Antonacci
1Dipartimento di Ingegneria Chimica e Alimentare, Università degli Studi di Salerno, Via Ponte Don Melillo, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy. ereverchon@unisa.it
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
|February 9, 2007
Summary
Supercritical Assisted Atomization (SAA) produces chitosan/ampicillin microparticles for controlled drug release. The polymer/drug ratio controls release rate, offering a stabilizing effect on ampicillin.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Developing effective drug delivery systems is crucial for controlled release.
- Chitosan is a promising biocompatible polymer for microparticle formulation.
- Supercritical Assisted Atomization (SAA) offers a novel approach for microparticle production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Supercritical Assisted Atomization (SAA) for producing chitosan-ampicillin composite microparticles.
- To evaluate the impact of the polymer/drug ratio on microparticle characteristics and drug release.
- To analyze the drug release mechanisms and stability of ampicillin within the microparticles.
Main Methods:
- Supercritical Assisted Atomization (SAA) was employed to synthesize composite microparticles.
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used for morphological analysis.
- X-ray, DSC, EDX, and UV-vis spectroscopy characterized the microparticles.
- In vitro drug release studies were conducted to assess release kinetics.
Main Results:
- SAA successfully produced uniform, spherical chitosan/ampicillin microparticles (0.1-6 µm).
- A solid solution of chitosan and ampicillin was formed, enhancing drug stability.
- Prolonged ampicillin release was achieved compared to raw drug and physical mixtures.
- Drug release was controlled by swelling, relaxation, and diffusion, influenced by the polymer/drug ratio.
Conclusions:
- SAA is an effective technique for creating stable, controlled-release chitosan-ampicillin microparticles.
- The polymer/drug ratio is a key parameter for modulating drug release kinetics.
- The developed microparticles demonstrate potential for advanced drug delivery applications.

