Carrageenan-Acyclovir Complex and Its Liposomal Form

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Carrageenans (CRGs) are sulfated polysaccharides with potential applications in drug delivery.
• Acyclovir (ACV) is a common antiviral medication.
• Developing effective drug delivery systems is crucial for improving antiviral therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a mucoadhesive complex of carrageenans (CRGs) and acyclovir (ACV).
• To evaluate the antiviral efficacy and prophylactic effects of the CRG/ACV complex against herpes simplex virus (HSV-1).
• To investigate the potential of liposomal formulations of the CRG/ACV complex for enhanced antiviral delivery.

Main Methods:

• Complex formation between CRGs and ACV was confirmed using IR spectroscopy and quantum-chemical calculations.
• ζ-potential distribution was analyzed to confirm complex formation.
• Antiviral activity was assessed by evaluating the inhibition of cytopathic effects of HSV-1 on host cells.
• Liposomal formulations of the CRG/ACV complex were prepared and characterized.

Main Results:

• CRGs and ACV formed complexes via hydrogen bonding and coordination interactions with an enthalpy of 15-20 kcal/mol.
• The CRG/ACV complex demonstrated enhanced antiviral activity, allowing for reduced ACV dosage and exhibiting prophylactic effects.
• Liposomal CRG/ACV complex showed significant mucoadhesion, potent antiviral activity (SI 344), and a heightened prophylactic effect (SI 128).

Conclusions:

• CRG/ACV complexes represent a promising approach for developing effective antiviral therapies.
• Liposomal encapsulation further enhances the mucoadhesive and antiviral properties of the CRG/ACV complex.
• These novel compounds selectively inhibit viral adsorption and replication without harming host cells.