Core-shell structure microcapsules with dual pH-responsive drug release function.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Developing microcapsules with controlled release properties is crucial for effective drug delivery.
• pH-responsive materials offer targeted drug release in specific physiological environments.
• Combining different materials can create synergistic effects for enhanced functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate dual pH-responsive core-shell microcapsules using combined electrostatic droplet (ESD) and microfluidic droplet (MFD) techniques.
• To evaluate the drug release efficiency and biocompatibility of the synthesized microcapsules.
• To investigate the potential of these microcapsules as dual-drug carriers.

Main Methods:

• Core-shell microcapsules were synthesized using a combination of ESD and MFD techniques.
• Alginate was used for the core and chitosan for the shell, creating a monodisperse structure.
• Two model drugs, ampicillin (shell) and diclofenac (core), were loaded for drug delivery studies.
• Biocompatibility was assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

Main Results:

• Monodisperse core-shell microcapsules with controllable size were successfully fabricated.
• The microcapsules demonstrated dual pH-responsive release in both acidic and alkaline environments.
• Core-shell structures exhibited superior drug release efficiency compared to individual core or shell particles.
• The MTT assay confirmed positive cell viability (above 80%), indicating good biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized core-shell microcapsules are effective dual pH-responsive drug carriers.
• The combined ESD and MFD approach offers a versatile method for producing functional microcapsules.
• These microcapsules show significant potential for targeted and efficient dual-drug delivery applications.