Synthesis of N,O-Carboxymethyated chitosan and its application in the development of acyclovir loaded nanoparticles

Objective of the study was to perform a physico-chemical modification of low molecular weight chitosan (CTS) followed by its use in the formulation of nanoparticles carrier of Acyclovir (ACY). Modified polymer was used to develop ACY loaded nanoparticles in order to achieve optimal response and to minimize toxic effects of ACY. CTS were dissolved in varying concentrations of potassium hydroxide solution to synthesize N, O-carboxymethylated chitosan (N,O-CMC). Synthesized derivative was further processed with different concentrations of TPP (0.3%, 0.5% and 1%) and ACY to prepare nanoparticles. N,O-CMC and prepared formulations were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was done to observe the surface morphology, zeta size and zeta potential for particle size analysis, in vitro dissolution to find out the release pattern and kinetic modeling was done to observe the release mechanism and pattern of the drug. Result of FTIR was evidence of polymer modification when compared with chitosan which was the parent standard polymer as well as compatibility of the ingredients. Results of zeta size analysis have confirmed that the particles are of nanosized (109-125nm). Good controlled 98.77% over release of 24 h of formulation B observed in phosphate buffer of intestinal pH. Higuchi model with Fickian diffusion was dominating due to the formation of N, O-CMC complex which created smooth surface. All the results were significant and within the p value of 0.001. Conclusively, the modification of the CTS was in nanoparticle showed good sustained release.