Encapsulation of apigenin into β-cyclodextrin metal-organic frameworks with high embedment efficiency and stability

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Apigenin, a natural flavonoid, has therapeutic potential but suffers from poor application performance.
• Developing effective delivery systems is crucial for enhancing apigenin's bioavailability and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To encapsulate apigenin within β-cyclodextrin metal-organic frameworks (BCDMOFs) to improve its application performance.
• To investigate the pH-dependent encapsulation efficiency and stability of apigenin within BCDMOFs.

Main Methods:

• Apigenin was encapsulated into BCDMOFs using an innovative pH-adjusted method.
• Characterization of the resulting composites was performed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis.
• Storage stability and kinetic release studies were conducted.

Main Results:

• Encapsulation efficiency reached a maximum of 79.2% ± 1.2% at pH 12, demonstrating significant pH dependence.
• Characterization confirmed the formation of apigenin/BCDMOFs composites with facilitated pore exposure for high embedment.
• Apigenin stability increased by approximately 18% over 7 days compared to free apigenin, indicating enhanced degradation resistance.

Conclusions:

• BCDMOFs effectively encapsulate apigenin, enhancing its stability and controlling its release.
• The developed apigenin/BCDMOFs composites show improved application performance in vitro.
• This study presents a promising strategy for improving the delivery and efficacy of apigenin.