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Injectable Supramolecular Polymer-Nanoparticle Hydrogels for Cell and Drug Delivery Applications
Published on: February 7, 2021
A new vesicle-loaded hydrogel system suitable for topical applications: preparation and characterization
Maria Carafa1, Carlotta Marianecci, Luisa Di Marzio
1Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, “Sapienza”, University of Rome, Italy. maria.carafa@uniroma1.it
Summary
This study developed a novel hydrogel formulation embedding niosomes (NSVs) for controlled drug release. The combined system effectively protects niosomes and enables sustained release of loaded molecules, showing promise for drug delivery applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Niosomes (NSVs) are non-ionic surfactant vesicles used for drug encapsulation.
- Hydrogels offer a matrix for controlled release applications.
- Combining niosomes with hydrogels can enhance drug delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and characterize a novel formulation combining niosomes loaded with model molecules and a hydrogel matrix.
- To investigate the drug release profiles from this combined system.
- To evaluate the integrity and release behavior of niosomes within the hydrogel.
Main Methods:
- Niosomes (Tween 20/cholesterol) were loaded with model molecules (calcein, nile red, ibuprofen, caffeine).
- Locust bean gum/xanthan hydrogel was prepared and used to entrap the loaded niosomes.
- Niosomes and hydrogel systems were characterized using size, zeta-potential, and scanning electron microscopy.
- In vitro drug release studies were conducted at 32 °C.
Main Results:
- Niosome size slightly increased with hydrophilic molecule loading but surface charge remained stable.
- Hydrogel entrapment did not affect the release of hydrophilic calcein but was crucial for nile red release.
- Hydrophilic caffeine showed faster release than hydrophobic ibuprofen from the niosomes-gel system.
- Niosomes remained intact within the hydrogel matrix during release studies.
Conclusions:
- The novel formulation successfully integrates niosomes and a hydrogel matrix, leveraging the benefits of both systems.
- The hydrogel provides a protective effect, maintaining niosome integrity.
- The formulation facilitates a slow and controlled release of encapsulated model molecules, demonstrating potential for advanced drug delivery.
