Controlled ibuprofen release from Pickering emulsions stabilized by pH-responsive cellulose-based nanofibrils

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Pickering emulsions are emerging as advanced controlled drug delivery systems.
• Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and chitosan nanofibers (ChNFs) are eco-friendly stabilizers for Pickering emulsions.
• The use of ChNF/CNF complexes in pH-responsive drug delivery remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop stable, pH-responsive Pickering emulsions using ChNF/CNF complexes.
• To investigate the potential of these emulsions for controlled drug release.
• To explore applications in eco-friendly drug delivery systems.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of fish oil-in-water Pickering emulsions stabilized by ChNF/CNF complexes.
• Optimization of ChNF concentration (0.2 wt%) and assessment of emulsion particle size (~4 μm).
• Evaluation of long-term emulsion stability (16 days) and pH-responsive ibuprofen release.

Main Results:

• ChNF/CNF complexes formed highly stable Pickering emulsions with long-term storage stability.
• Emulsion stability was optimal at 0.2 wt% ChNF, with particle sizes around 4 μm.
• Controlled and sustained release of ibuprofen (IBU) was achieved, with ~95% release between pH 5-9.
• Peak drug loading (1%) and encapsulation efficiency (87%) were observed at 1% IBU dosage.

Conclusions:

• ChNF/CNF complexes can create versatile, stable, and renewable Pickering systems for controlled drug delivery.
• These systems exhibit pH-responsive behavior suitable for targeted drug release.
• Potential applications exist in the food industry and in the development of eco-friendly products.