Gentamicin-Loaded Thermosetting Hydrogel and Moldable Composite Scaffold: Formulation Study and Biologic Evaluation
Rossella Dorati1, Antonella De Trizio2, Ida Genta1
1Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
|March 12, 2017
Summary
Biodegradable composite hydrogels were developed as gentamicin drug delivery systems and bone regeneration scaffolds. These moldable composite scaffolds loaded with gentamicin (mCSG) demonstrated effective gentamicin release and antimicrobial activity, reducing infection risk in bone surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Bone regeneration often requires infection prevention, especially after open surgeries.
- Local antibiotic delivery can enhance efficacy and reduce systemic toxicity.
- Biodegradable scaffolds offer a dual function for bone repair and drug delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and characterize biodegradable composite hydrogels for gentamicin local delivery.
- To evaluate these hydrogels as scaffolds for bone regeneration.
- To assess the antimicrobial efficacy of gentamicin-loaded scaffolds against bacterial infections.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of gentamicin-loaded thermosetting composite hydrogels (mCSG) using chitosan, bovine bone substitutes, and beta-glycerophosphate.
- Investigation of different gentamicin loading techniques (incorporation vs. absorption).
- Characterization of hydrogel rheology, porosity, stability, gentamicin release kinetics, cell compatibility, and antimicrobial activity.
Main Results:
- Optimized gentamicin loading achieved 4 mg per 1 mL of hydrogel solution.
- Scaffolds exhibited high porosity (80%-86%), good water uptake, and retention.
- Complete in vitro gentamicin release occurred within 4 hours, with sustained antimicrobial effect for 24 hours.
- mCSG demonstrated good cell seeding and proliferation, particularly mCSG3 and mCSG5.
Conclusions:
- The developed moldable composite scaffold loaded with gentamicin (mCSG) is a promising biodegradable system for local gentamicin delivery.
- These scaffolds support bone regeneration and possess significant antimicrobial properties.
- mCSG holds potential for reducing infection risk in bone open surgeries.
