Unlocking new dimensions in long-acting injectables using lipid mesophase-based beads

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Lipid mesophases (LMPs) are biocompatible and biodegradable materials.
• High surface-to-volume ratio of LMP-based beads can enhance material properties.
• Controlled drug release is crucial for effective and safe therapeutics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate LMP-based beads for sustained drug delivery.
• To modulate drug release kinetics using vitamin E.
• To develop an injectable formulation for targeted drug administration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of LMP-based beads.
• Incorporation of antioxidant vitamin E to influence mesophase topology.
• Loading of four diverse drugs with high entrapment efficiency (>80%).
• Evaluation of drug release profiles and development of an injectable formulation.

Main Results:

• LMP-based beads demonstrated enhanced strength, stability, and surface interaction.
• Vitamin E successfully modulated mesophase topologies and drug diffusion.
• Sustained drug release was achieved for all tested drugs, regardless of chemical properties.
• An injectable formulation enabling targeted delivery was successfully developed.

Conclusions:

• LMP-based beads are a promising material for sustained and targeted drug delivery.
• The developed injectable formulation minimizes systemic exposure and adverse effects.
• This approach offers a versatile platform for diverse therapeutic applications.