Optimized Enoxolone-Loaded Microsponges for Drug Delivery: A Design of Experiments Approach

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Drug Delivery
• Materials Science

Background:

• Enoxolon possesses significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral properties.
• Novel drug delivery systems are needed to enhance enoxolon's therapeutic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and optimize enoxolone-loaded microsponges using a design of experiments (DoE) approach.
• To evaluate the physicochemical properties and in vitro drug release of the optimized formulation.

Main Methods:

• Microsponges were fabricated using the quasi-emulsion technique.
• A DoE methodology was used to optimize methylcellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, and Tween 80 concentrations.
• Physicochemical characterization included yield, particle size, and entrapment efficiency.
• In vitro release studies were conducted comparing the microsponge formulation to pure enoxolon.

Main Results:

• The optimized formulation achieved a particle size of 142.8 ± 10.02 µm and an entrapment efficiency of 80.3 ± 1.99%.
• The optimized microsponge formulation exhibited a 1.29 times higher release rate compared to pure enoxolon (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Microsponge-based delivery systems offer a promising platform for enoxolon.
• This optimized formulation demonstrates potential for the topical treatment of chronic periodontitis.