Polyelectrolyte pH-Responsive Protein-Containing Nanoparticles: The Physicochemical Supramolecular Approach.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Developing pH-sensitive nanocarriers is crucial for targeted drug delivery.
• Eudragit L100-55 and Brij98 are FDA-approved materials with potential for nanocarrier formulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physicochemical properties and self-assembly of Eudragit L100-55/Brij98 nanocontainers.
• To evaluate the encapsulation and protective capabilities of these nanocontainers for bioactive components.

Main Methods:

• Isothermal titration calorimetry to study polymer-surfactant interactions.
• Dynamic light scattering and small-angle X-ray scattering for particle characterization.
• Radioactive labeling (iodine-125) to determine trypsin loading efficiency.

Main Results:

• Stable nanoparticles formed at acidic pH with polymer-to-surfactant ratios of 1:43 to 1:139.
• Trypsin was successfully encapsulated, demonstrating high loading efficiency.
• Eudragit-Brij98 nanoparticles protected trypsin from pepsin digestion, retaining over 50% activity.

Conclusions:

• Eudragit L100-55 and Brij98 form efficient, pH-sensitive nanocontainers.
• These nanocontainers offer a promising platform for protecting and delivering bioactive molecules.
• The findings contribute to the design of next-generation nanocontainers for various applications.