Selective interactions of zein microspheres with different class of drugs: an in vitro and in silico analysis

In this study, we have evaluated the interactions of zein microspheres with different class of drugs (hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and amphiphilic) using in vitro and in silico analysis. Zein microspheres loaded with aceclofenac, metformin, and promethazine has been developed by solvent evaporation technique and analyzed for its compatibility. The physical characterization depicted the proper encapsulation of hydrophobic drug in the microspheres. The in vitro release study revealed the sustaining ability of the microspheres in the following order: hydrophobic > hydrophilic > amphiphilic. In silico analysis also confirmed the better binding affinity and greater interactions of hydrophobic drug with zein. The above results revealed that zein is more suitable for hydrophobic drugs in the development of sustained drug delivery systems using solvent evaporation technique. The study therefore envisages a scope for identifying the most suitable polymer for a sustained drug delivery system in accordance with the nature of the drug.