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Injectable biodegradable microchamber array films for long-term delivery of glucocorticoids
Jiaxin Zhang1, Jordan E Read2, Gayatri Mittal3
1Biochemical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom.
Summary
This study developed novel biodegradable polymer microchamber array films (MCAs) for sustained glucocorticoid (GC) delivery. These films offer tunable release kinetics, avoiding burst release for prolonged anti-inflammatory effects at disease sites.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Glucocorticoids (GCs) are potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents, but systemic delivery causes side effects.
- Local delivery of GCs to disease sites (eyes, lungs, joints) minimizes systemic exposure.
- Current local GC formulations often suffer from burst release, limiting therapeutic duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize novel biodegradable polymer microchamber array films (MCAs) for sustained glucocorticoid release.
- To investigate the influence of polymer choice on GC release kinetics and film degradation.
- To assess the potential for injectable and rollable MCA formulations for localized drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Soft lithography was employed to fabricate polymer microchamber array films (MCAs) containing glucocorticoid crystals.
- Varying polymer compositions (PLGA 50/50, PLA) were used to modulate release rates.
- Glucocorticoid release profiles, film degradation (size, appearance, lactic acid liberation), and zero-order release kinetics were monitored over time.
Main Results:
- The choice of polymer significantly affected GC release duration, with PLGA 50/50 showing release over 9 weeks and PLA over a year.
- No evidence of burst release was observed; films exhibited significant zero-order release kinetics.
- Film degradation correlated with GC release, evidenced by changes in physical properties and lactic acid production.
- Flexible MCAs could be rolled into fibers or injected via syringe with minimal impact on release kinetics.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable polymer MCAs provide a promising platform for tunable, sustained local glucocorticoid delivery.
- The developed MCA technology minimizes burst release and achieves prolonged therapeutic effects.
- These flexible, injectable formulations represent an innovative approach for managing localized inflammatory diseases.
