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Multiscale structure analysis of a pH-responsive gelatin/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate blend using
Tero Kämäräinen1, Satoshi Nogami1, Hiroshi Arima-Osonoi2
1Department of Formulation Design and Pharmaceutical Technology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 4-20-1 Nasahara, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1094, Japan.
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
|May 17, 2024
Summary
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP) forms fractal structures in gelatin hydrogels at low pH, influencing drug release. Understanding this agglomeration is key for optimizing drug delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP) is an enteric polymer used in drug delivery for pH-responsive release.
- Its agglomeration in gelatin hydrogels is not well understood, limiting material property tailoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the multiscale structure of gelatin/HPMCP hydrogels.
- To understand the pH-responsive structure of HPMCP and its cross-correlation with gelatin.
Main Methods:
- Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and contrast-variation small-angle neutron scattering (SANS).
- Studied hydrogels at pH 2-6 and 37°C.
Main Results:
- HPMCP formed mass fractal structures (fractal dimension 1.5-2.7) with primary particles (radius of gyration 70-140 Å) at pH 2-4.
- Gelatin influenced HPMCP's fractal structure and particle size.
- Negative cross-correlation between gelatin and HPMCP indicated volume-exclusion interactions.
Conclusions:
- HPMCP agglomeration into fractal structures is pH-dependent.
- Gelatin and HPMCP exhibit distinct interactions within the hydrogel network.
- Findings provide insights for designing advanced pH-responsive drug delivery systems.
