Collagen-coated polycaprolactone microparticles as a controlled drug delivery system

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Polycaprolactone (PCL) microparticles are utilized for drug delivery.
• Enhancing drug encapsulation and release profiles is crucial for controlled delivery systems.
• Collagen's biocompatibility makes it a suitable scaffold for cell attachment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess acetylated collagen-coated PCL microparticles as a controlled drug delivery system.
• To develop a system that also functions as a scaffold for cell attachment.
• To improve drug availability and release duration.

Main Methods:

• PCL microparticles loaded with doxycycline hydrochloride (DH) were prepared via emulsion solvent evaporation.
• PCL microparticles were coated with acetylated collagen at pH 7.0.
• Surface morphology was analyzed using SEM, and in vitro drug release was determined by HPLC.

Main Results:

• Uniformly sized PCL microparticles (approx. 1000 nm) were successfully coated with acetylated collagen.
• The collagen-coated PCL microparticles demonstrated controlled release of DH for over 10 days.
• In vitro fibroblast studies confirmed collagen as a good substrate for cell attachment and proliferation.

Conclusions:

• Acetylated collagen-coated PCL microparticles are promising for controlled drug delivery.
• The system provides a scaffold for cell attachment, proliferation, and regeneration.
• Ideal for short-term drug delivery in aseptic environments promoting tissue repair.