Encapsulation of Vecuronium and Rocuronium by Sugammadex Investigated by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Neuromuscular blocking agents Vecuronium (Vec) and Rocuronium (Roc) are reversed by sugammadex (SDX).
• Monitoring the complexation of SDX with Vec/Roc is crucial for anesthesia reversal.
• A noninvasive, real-time monitoring technique is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a proof-of-principle methodology for real-time monitoring of Vecuronium (Vec) and Rocuronium (Roc) complexation with sugammadex (SDX) using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS).

Main Methods:

• Utilized silver nanoparticles as SERS-active substrates.
• Obtained SERS spectra for Vec and Roc in the 5 × 10⁻⁷–1 × 10⁻⁴ M range.
• Analyzed spectral changes in SDX/drug complexes at a 1/1 molar ratio.

Main Results:

• SERS spectra of Vec and Roc were successfully obtained.
• Sugammadex (SDX) SERS signals were observed in the presence of an aggregating agent.
• Significant spectral changes in SDX glucose rings and drug steroid rings indicated complex formation.
• Complexation is driven by electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions.

Conclusions:

• The developed SERS methodology provides a novel, noninvasive approach for monitoring SDX/drug complexation.
• Observed spectral changes are applicable in biorelevant conditions.
• This technique supports further in vivo studies of SDX/drug interactions.