3D-Printed Shellac-Based Delivery Systems: A Biopolymer Platform for Intestinal Targeting of Biologically Active...

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Site-specific drug delivery remains a challenge.
• Natural polymers offer biocompatible platforms for drug encapsulation.
• 3D printing enables complex device geometries for controlled release.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize 3D-printed shellac-based devices for targeted intestinal delivery.
• To investigate the impact of structural parameters on device performance.
• To evaluate the release kinetics of a model drug from these devices.

Main Methods:

• Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing using shellac and poly-(ethylene glycol) 10000 (PEG 10000).
• Systematic variation of base and lateral wall thickness.
• Characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), mechanical testing, and thermal analysis.
• In vitro disintegration and dissolution testing with propranolol hydrochloride.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication of shellac devices with consistent morphology and robust mechanical properties.
• Increased device thickness significantly improved mechanical strength.
• Thicker devices demonstrated resistance to acidic conditions and controlled release in simulated intestinal fluid.
• Propranolol hydrochloride release was modulated by structural parameters.

Conclusions:

• Shellac-based 3D-printed devices are a versatile platform for site-specific intestinal delivery.
• Device thickness is a critical parameter for controlling mechanical integrity and drug release profiles.
• These platforms are suitable for delivering pharmaceuticals, macromolecules, probiotics, and nutraceuticals requiring gastric protection.