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Biodegradable microspheres: a new delivery system for growth hormone
L Di Silvio1, N Gurav, M V Kayser
1Institute of Orthopaedics (UCL), Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital Trust, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex, UK.
Biomaterials
|September 1, 1994
Summary
Biodegradable gelatin microspheres were developed for controlled release of growth hormone (GH) for orthopaedic tissue repair. Release was diffusion-controlled and influenced by pH, enzymes, and ultrasonication.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Effective drug delivery systems are crucial for targeted therapies in orthopaedics.
- Controlled and sustained release of biologically active agents can enhance tissue repair.
- Growth hormone (GH) has potential therapeutic applications in orthopaedic regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize biodegradable, monolithic microspheres for the controlled release of growth hormone (GH).
- To investigate the in vitro release kinetics of GH from gelatin microspheres.
- To assess the influence of environmental factors on microsphere degradation and drug release.
Main Methods:
- Development of cross-linked gelatin microspheres encapsulating growth hormone.
- In vitro monitoring of GH release in phosphate-buffered saline and horse serum.
- Evaluation of the effects of pH, enzyme-induced degradation, and ultrasonication on GH release and microsphere swelling.
Main Results:
- GH release from gelatin microspheres was observed to be diffusion-controlled.
- Ultrasonication significantly increased the amount of GH released.
- Microsphere swelling kinetics were affected by both pH and enzyme-induced degradation.
- Higher GH levels were detected in phosphate-buffered saline compared to horse serum.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable gelatin microspheres represent a viable system for controlled GH delivery in orthopaedic applications.
- The release profile of GH can be modulated by external stimuli like ultrasonication and environmental conditions.
- Further research is warranted to optimize these microspheres for in vivo tissue repair applications.