Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026
09:11
Alternating Magnetic Field-Responsive Hybrid Gelatin Microgels for Controlled Drug Release
Published on: February 13, 2016
Gelatin-Based Microspheres for Sustained Ketoprofen Delivery in Difficult-to-Heal Wounds
Chiara Kodra1,2, Alessia Nito3, Emma Quarta3
1Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, Via Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy.
Polymers
|August 13, 2026
Summary
This study developed tannic acid-crosslinked gelatin microspheres for sustained topical delivery of Ketoprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. This biocompatible system shows promise for improved chronic wound management by controlling inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Wound Healing Research
Background:
- Chronic wounds present a major clinical challenge due to persistent inflammation and delayed tissue repair.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ketoprofen are crucial for managing wound inflammation, but systemic administration poses risks.
- Localized, controlled drug delivery systems are needed to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize side effects in wound care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize tannic acid-crosslinked gelatin microspheres for sustained topical delivery of Ketoprofen.
- To evaluate the physicochemical, functional, and biological properties of the developed drug delivery system.
- To assess the potential of this platform for localized anti-inflammatory drug delivery in wound management.
Main Methods:
- Gelatin microspheres were fabricated using a single water-in-oil emulsification process and crosslinked with tannic acid.
- The formulation was optimized by adjusting homogenization speed, crosslinking time, and molar ratio.
- Characterization included morphological analysis, physicochemical testing, drug release studies, COX inhibition assays, cytocompatibility tests, and a qualitative wound-model test.
Main Results:
- Optimized microspheres were spherical (5-35 µm) with high crosslinking efficiency and demonstrated sustained Ketoprofen release over time.
- Released Ketoprofen retained its anti-inflammatory activity, as evidenced by COX inhibition assays.
- Cytocompatibility tests indicated short-term compatibility, and wound-model tests showed promising hydration, film formation, and retention.
Conclusions:
- Tannic acid-crosslinked gelatin microspheres offer a biocompatible and effective platform for the sustained topical delivery of Ketoprofen.
- This system holds significant potential for enhancing localized anti-inflammatory treatment in chronic wound management.
- Further research can explore advanced applications of these microspheres in regenerative medicine and wound therapeutics.
