Chitosan-Based Coacervate Polymers for Propolis Encapsulation: Release and Cytotoxicity Studies.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Chitosan-based hydrogels are explored for sustained drug delivery.
• Developing effective carriers for natural compounds like Green Propolis is crucial.
• Investigating novel hydrogel formulations enhances drug efficacy and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and characterize Chitosan-DNA (CS-DNA) and Chitosan-Pectin (CS-P) hydrogels.
• To evaluate their potential as sustained drug delivery carriers for Green Propolis (GP).
• To assess the biocompatibility and cell support capabilities of these novel hydrogels.

Main Methods:

• Hydrogels prepared via emulsion technique, incorporating GP by imbibition.
• Characterization using spectroscopic techniques and surface morphology analysis.
• In vitro cell viability and morphology assessed using MG63 cell line.

Main Results:

• FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of Pectin and DNA in the respective hydrogels.
• GP incorporation altered gel surface morphology and induced phase separation in CS-DNA hydrogels.
• Drug release followed a two-step mechanism in water and saliva.
• Hydrogels demonstrated significant biocompatibility and supported MG63 cell survival.

Conclusions:

• CS-DNA and CS-P hydrogels are viable sustained drug delivery systems for Green Propolis.
• These hydrogels provide a favorable micro-environment for cell growth.
• The developed hydrogels offer a promising alternative for delivering bioactive compounds.