Development and Optimization of Alpha-Pinene-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) Using Experimental Factorial...

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) are versatile drug delivery systems.
• α-pinene, a bicyclic monoterpene, has therapeutic potential but requires effective delivery systems.
• Encapsulation of lipophilic compounds like α-pinene into SLN presents formulation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the formulation of α-pinene-loaded SLN using a factorial design.
• To characterize the physicochemical properties and stability of the developed SLN.
• To evaluate the utility of LUMiSizer® for SLN characterization and stability analysis.

Main Methods:

• SLN were prepared using hot high-pressure homogenization.
• A 2^2 factorial design was employed to study the effect of surfactant and lipid ratios.
• Particle size (Z-Ave), polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP) were measured using dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering.
• LUMiSizer® was used for advanced dispersion and stability analysis.

Main Results:

• The optimal SLN formulation comprised 1 wt.% α-pinene, 4 wt.% Imwitor® 900 K (solid lipid), and 2.5 wt.% Poloxamer 188 (surfactant).
• This optimized dispersion exhibited a mean particle size (Z-Ave) of 136.7 nm, a PDI of 0.170, and a ZP of 0 mV.
• LUMiSizer® effectively characterized SLN instability phenomena and particle size distribution.

Conclusions:

• A robust method for producing α-pinene-loaded SLN with desirable physicochemical properties was established.
• The optimized SLN formulation shows promise for delivering α-pinene.
• LUMiSizer® is a valuable tool for comprehensive SLN characterization and stability assessment.