In Vitro Characterization and In Vivo Performance of Vancomycin-Loaded PLGA Microspheres Prepared by Using...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious complication following total joint arthroplasty (TJA).
• Current antibiotic treatments for PJI face challenges with bioavailability and systemic toxicity.
• Novel drug delivery systems are needed for effective PJI management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate vancomycin-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles for controlled, localized antibiotic delivery.
• To assess the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of these microparticles in managing PJI.
• To investigate the potential of this approach to improve therapeutic outcomes in PJI.

Main Methods:

• Vancomycin-loaded PLGA microparticles (VMP) were synthesized using a microfluidic double emulsion method.
• In vitro characterization included loading capacity, particle size, and drug release kinetics over 8 weeks.
• In vivo efficacy was assessed in a rat joint infection model, evaluating bacterial load, bone healing, and functional recovery.

Main Results:

• Microparticles exhibited high vancomycin loading capacity (up to 28% w/w) and sustained release over 8 weeks.
• In vivo studies showed significant reduction in bacterial viability and enhanced bone healing in VMP-treated rats.
• VMP treatment led to earlier weight-bearing recovery and reduced inflammation compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Microfluidic-synthesized PLGA microparticles offer a promising strategy for localized, controlled vancomycin delivery for PJI.
• This approach has the potential to improve therapeutic efficacy and postsurgical outcomes in PJI management.
• Further research into long-term effects and clinical scalability is warranted.