Antibacterial effects and ibuprofen release potential using chitosan microspheres loaded with silver nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Chitosan microspheres are widely used in pharmaceuticals for controlled drug release and as bactericidal agents.
• Multifunctional applications of these biomaterials are less explored, presenting an opportunity for novel material development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and evaluate epichlorohydrin-crosslinked chitosan microspheres for silver ion adsorption and silver nanoparticle formation.
• To investigate the potential of the resulting hybrid material for antibacterial activity and controlled drug release.

Main Methods:

• Chitosan microspheres were synthesized and crosslinked using epichlorohydrin.
• Silver ion (Ag+) adsorption was optimized for pH, adsorption model (Langmuir), and time.
• The hybrid material was characterized and tested for antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus, and for controlled release of ibuprofen.

Main Results:

• Optimal Ag+ adsorption occurred at pH 5-7, fitting the Langmuir model, with maximum adsorption at 10 hours.
• The hybrid microspheres exhibited antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus.
• Microspheres incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) demonstrated enhanced ibuprofen release (77%) compared to those without AgNPs.

Conclusions:

• Epichlorohydrin-crosslinked chitosan microspheres effectively adsorb silver ions and form silver nanoparticles.
• The developed hybrid material possesses significant antibacterial properties and improved controlled drug release capabilities.
• These findings highlight the potential of multifunctional chitosan-silver hybrid microspheres in pharmaceutical applications.