Design of chitosan-based nanoparticles functionalized with gallic acid

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biopolymers

Background:

• Chitosan-based nanoparticles offer potential for controlled delivery of active compounds like gallic acid (GA).
• Optimization of nanoparticle formulation is crucial for stability and encapsulation efficiency in various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the design parameters of chitosan-gallic acid nanoparticles using Response Surface Methodology (RSM).
• To evaluate the stability and encapsulation efficiency of the developed nanoparticles for potential applications.

Main Methods:

• Nanoparticles were prepared via ionotropic gelation using chitosan (CH) and tripolyphosphate (TPP).
• Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize CH concentration, CH:TPP ratio, and GA loading.
• Zeta potential (ZP) and percentage encapsulation efficiency (PEE) were key parameters analyzed.
• Stability was assessed using QuickScan, turbidity, ZP, transmittance, and nanoparticle diameter measurements.
• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to confirm interactions.

Main Results:

• An optimal formulation (0.76% CH, 5:1 CH:TPP ratio, 37 mg GA/g CH) yielded +50mV ZP and 82% PEE.
• Stable nanoparticle suspensions (ZP > +25mV, transmittance > 0.21, diameter ~140nm) were achieved with 0.5-0.75% CH and CH:TPP ratios > 3.
• FTIR confirmed hydrogen bonding and ionic interactions between CH-TPP, facilitating GA encapsulation and stability.

Conclusions:

• Optimized chitosan-gallic acid nanoparticles demonstrate high encapsulation efficiency and stability.
• These nanoparticles are suitable for modulated delivery in food, packaging, and pharmaceutical sectors.
• The study provides a robust method for developing stable, functionalized nanoparticles.