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Transport evaluation of alendronate across Caco-2 cell monolayers
F Karamustafa1, N Celebi, Z Değim
1Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Gazi University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Etiler, Ankara, Turkey.
Die Pharmazie
|March 27, 2009
Summary
Dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin (DM-beta-CD) significantly enhances alendronate transport across Caco-2 cell monolayers. This study identified optimal non-toxic concentrations for alendronate and enhancers, suggesting DM-beta-CD
Area of Science:
- Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery
- Cell Biology
- Biopharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Alendronate is a bisphosphonate used to treat osteoporosis.
- Improving oral bioavailability of bisphosphonates remains a challenge.
- Caco-2 cell monolayers serve as an in vitro model for intestinal absorption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transport of alendronate across Caco-2 monolayers.
- To evaluate the efficacy of absorption enhancers, sodium taurocholate (STC) and dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin (DM-beta-CD), on alendronate transport.
- To determine the non-toxic concentrations of alendronate and enhancers for Caco-2 cell viability.
Main Methods:
- Caco-2 cell viability assessed using MTT assay.
- Alendronate transport studied across Caco-2 monolayers with and without STC and DM-beta-CD.
- Cell integrity evaluated by measuring electrical resistance.
- Optimized concentrations determined for alendronate (0.2%), STC (5 mM), and DM-beta-CD (0.3%).
Main Results:
- DM-beta-CD significantly increased alendronate transport through Caco-2 monolayers.
- STC did not show a significant effect on alendronate transport.
- DM-beta-CD caused a greater decrease in cell electrical resistance, indicating potential impact on cell integrity.
Conclusions:
- DM-beta-CD is a promising absorption enhancer for improving alendronate transport.
- Further research is warranted to balance enhanced transport with potential effects on cell integrity.
- In vitro Caco-2 model provides valuable insights into drug delivery strategies for bisphosphonates.
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Cellular Membranes and Drug Transport
Drugs must traverse multiple biological barriers, such as multi-layered skin, single-layered intestinal epithelium, and the plasma membrane, to reach their target sites within the body. The plasma membrane, a highly structured composite of phospholipids, carbohydrates, and proteins, is the cell's protective boundary, facilitating selective substance exchange.
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