Molecular Insights into Interactions between Ofloxacin and Ionic Micelles

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Science
• Physical Chemistry
• Biophysics

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance necessitates novel drug development.
• Understanding drug-membrane interactions is crucial for effective drug delivery.
• Surfactants serve as valuable mimetic models for biomembranes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interaction between ofloxacin (OFL) and two model surfactants: cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (cationic) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (anionic).
• To elucidate the thermodynamic parameters and binding mechanisms of OFL within these surfactant systems.
• To provide molecular insights for designing advanced antibiotic delivery systems.

Main Methods:

• Volumetric and acoustic methods were employed to study drug-surfactant interactions over a temperature range (293.15–323.15 K).
• Key parameters determined include apparent molar volume, isentropic compressibility, acoustic impedance, and intermolecular free length.
• UV-Vis spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry were utilized to assess binding constants and free energies.

Main Results:

• Detailed thermodynamic data on OFL partitioning and binding within the model membranes were obtained.
• The study quantified binding constants and free energies, revealing insights into OFL's interaction mechanisms.
• Observed interactions provide a foundation for understanding drug behavior in amphiphilic assemblies.

Conclusions:

• The findings offer crucial molecular-level understanding of ofloxacin's interaction with surfactant-based systems.
• This knowledge is vital for the rational design of drug delivery systems with controlled loading and release.
• The study contributes to the development of more effective antimicrobial therapies by informing formulation strategies.