Sample records for acid plga microspheres

  1. Interaction between dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide-modified PLGA microspheres and hyaluronic acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mulia, Kamarza; Devi, Krisanti, Elsa

    2017-02-01

    In application of intravitreal injection, an extended drug delivery system is desired so that the frequency of injection to treat diabetic retinopathy may be reduced. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) polymer (PLGA) was used to encapsulate a model drug in the form of microspheres. The zeta potential of dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide (DDAB)-modified PLGA microspheres in water was proportional to the DDAB concentration used in the preparation step, up to +57.8 mV. The scanning electron microscope pictures and the zeta potential data (SEM) confirmed that the surface of the PLGA has been modified by the cationic surfactant and that electrostatic interaction between the positively charged microspheres and the negatively charged vitreous were present.

  2. Development of Poly Lactic/Glycolic Acid (PLGA) Microspheres for Controlled Release of Rho-Associated Kinase Inhibitor.

    PubMed

    Koda, Sho; Okumura, Naoki; Kitano, Junji; Koizumi, Noriko; Tabata, Yasuhiko

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of poly lactic/glycolic acid (PLGA) as a drug delivery carrier of Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor for the treatment of corneal endothelial disease. ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 and PLGA were dissolved in water with or without gelatin (W1), and a double emulsion [(W1/O)/W2] was formed with dichloromethane (O) and polyvinyl alcohol (W2). Drug release curve was obtained by evaluating the released Y-27632 by using high performance liquid chromatography. PLGA was injected into the anterior chamber or subconjunctiva in rabbit eyes, and ocular complication was evaluated by slitlamp microscope and histological analysis. Y-27632 incorporated PLGA microspheres with different molecular weights, and different composition ratios of lactic acid and glycolic acid were fabricated. A high molecular weight and low content of glycolic acid produced a slower and longer release. The Y-27632 released from PLGA microspheres significantly promoted the cell proliferation of cultured corneal endothelial cells. The injection of PLGA did not induce any evident eye complication. ROCK inhibitor-incorporated PLGA microspheres were fabricated, and the microspheres achieved the sustained release of ROCK inhibitor over 7-10 days in vitro. Our data should encourage researchers to use PLGA microspheres for treating corneal endothelial diseases.

  3. POE/PLGA composite microspheres: formation and in vitro behavior of double walled microspheres.

    PubMed

    Yang, Yi-Yan; Shi, Meng; Goh, Suat-Hong; Moochhala, Shabbir M; Ng, Steve; Heller, Jorge

    2003-03-07

    The poly(ortho ester) (POE) and poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) 50:50 (PLGA) composite microspheres were fabricated by a water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) double emulsion process. The morphology of the composite microspheres varied depending on POE content. When the POE content was 50, 60 or 70% in weight, the double walled microspheres with a dense core of POE and a porous shell of PLGA were formed. The formation of the double walled POE/PLGA microspheres was analysed. Their in vitro degradation behavior was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, gel permeation chromatography, Fourier-transform infrared microscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). It was found that compared to the neat POE or PLGA microspheres, distinct degradation mechanism was achieved in the double walled POE/PLGA microspheres system. The degradation of the POE core was accelerated due to the acidic microenvironment produced by the hydrolysis of the outer PLGA layer. The formation of hollow microspheres became pronounced after the first week in vitro. 1H NMR spectra showed that the POE core was completely degraded after 4 weeks. On the other hand, the outer PLGA layer experienced slightly retarded degradation after the POE core disappeared. PLGA in the double walled microspheres kept more than 32% of its initial molecular weight over a period of 7 weeks.

  4. PLGA microspheres encapsulating siRNA.

    PubMed

    De Rosa, Giuseppe; Salzano, Giuseppina

    2015-01-01

    The therapeutic use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) represents a new and powerful approach to suppress the expression of pathologically genes. However, biopharmaceutical drawbacks, such as short half-life, poor cellular uptake, and unspecific distribution into the body, hamper the development of siRNA-based therapeutics. Poly(lactide-co-glycolide), (PLGA) microspheres can be a useful tool to overcome these issues. siRNA can be encapsulated into the PLGA microspheres, which protects the loaded nucleic acid against the enzymatic degradation. Moreover, PLGA microspheres can be injected directly into the action site, where the siRNA can be released in controlled manner, thus avoiding the need of frequent invasive administrations. The complete biodegradability of PLGA to monomers easily metabolized by the body, and its approval by FDA and EMA for parenteral administration, assure the safety of this copolymer and do not require the removal of the device after the complete drug release. In chapter, a basic protocol for the preparation of PLGA microspheres encapsulating siRNA is described. This protocol is based on a double emulsion/solvent evaporation technique, a well known and easy to reproduce method. This specific protocol has been developed to encapsulate a siRNA anti-TNFα in PLGA microspheres, and it has been designed and optimized to achieve high siRNA encapsulation efficiency and slow siRNA release in vitro. However, it can be extended also to other siRNA as well as other RNA or DNA-based oligonucleotides (miRNA, antisense, decoy, etc.). Depending on the applications, chemical modifications of the backbone and site-specific modification within the siRNA sequences could be required.

  5. Stabilization of Tetanus Toxoid Encapsulated in PLGA Microspheres

    PubMed Central

    Jiang, Wenlei; Schwendeman, Steven P.

    2014-01-01

    Delivery of vaccine antigens from controlled-release poly(lactic/glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres is a novel approach to reduce the number of antigen doses required for protection against infection. A major impediment to developing single-shot vaccines is encapsulated antigen instability during months of exposure to physiological conditions. For example, efforts to control neonatal tetanus in developing countries with a single-dose TT vaccine have been plagued by poor stability of the 150 kDa formaldehyde-detoxified protein antigen, tetanus toxoid (TT) in PLGA microspheres. We examined the denatured states of PLGA-encapsulated TT, revealing two primary TT instability mechanisms: 1) protein aggregation mediated by formaldehyde and 2) acid-induced protein unfolding and epitope damage. Further, we systemically identified excipients which can efficiently inhibit TT aggregation and retain TT antigenicity under simulated deleterious conditions, i.e., elevated temperature and humidity. By employing these novel additives in the PLGA system, we report the slow and continuous release of high doses of TT for one month with retained antigen stability during bioerosion of PLGA. PMID:18710256

  6. Stabilization of tetanus toxoid encapsulated in PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Wenlei; Schwendeman, Steven P

    2008-01-01

    Delivery of vaccine antigens from controlled-release poly(lactic/glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres is a novel approach to reduce the number of antigen doses required for protection against infection. A major impediment to developing single-shot vaccines is encapsulated antigen instability during months of exposure to physiological conditions. For example, efforts to control neonatal tetanus in developing countries with a single-dose TT vaccine based on PLGA microspheres have been plagued by poor stability of the 150 kDa formaldehyde-detoxified protein antigen, tetanus toxoid (TT), in the polymer. We examined the denatured states of PLGA-encapsulated TT, revealing two primary TT instability mechanisms: (1) protein aggregation mediated by formaldehyde and (2) acid-induced protein unfolding and epitope damage. Further, we systematically identified excipients, which can efficiently inhibit TT aggregation and retain TT antigenicity under simulated deleterious conditions, i.e., elevated temperature and humidity. By employing these novel additives in the PLGA system, we report the slow and continuous release of high doses of TT for one month with retained antigen stability during bioerosion of PLGA.

  7. Active self-healing encapsulation of vaccine antigens in PLGA microspheres

    PubMed Central

    Desai, Kashappa-Goud H.; Schwendeman, Steven P.

    2013-01-01

    Herein, we describe the detailed development of a simple and effective method to microencapsulate vaccine antigens in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) by simple mixing of preformed active self-microencapsulating (SM) PLGA microspheres in a low concentration aqueous antigen solution at modest temperature (10-38 °C). Co-encapsulating protein-sorbing vaccine adjuvants and polymer plasticizers were used to “actively” load the protein in the polymer pores and facilitate polymer self-healing at temperature > hydrated polymer glass transition temperature, respectively. The microsphere formulation parameters and loading conditions to provide optimal active self-healing microencapsulation of vaccine antigen in PLGA was investigated. Active self-healing encapsulation of two vaccine antigens, ovalbumin and tetanus toxoid (TT), in PLGA microspheres was adjusted by preparing blank microspheres containing different vaccine adjuvant (aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) or calcium phosphate). Active loading of vaccine antigen in Al(OH)3-PLGA microspheres was found to: a) increase proportionally with an increasing loading of Al(OH)3 (0.88-3 wt%) and addition of porosigen, b) decrease when the inner Al(OH)3/trehalose phase to 1 mL outer oil phase and size of microspheres was respectively > 0.2 mL and 63 μm, and c) change negligibly by PLGA concentration and initial incubation (loading) temperature. Encapsulation of protein sorbing Al(OH)3 in PLGA microspheres resulted in suppression of self-healing of PLGA pores, which was then overcome by improving polymer chain mobility, which in turn was accomplished by coincorporating hydrophobic plasticizers in PLGA. Active self-healing microencapsulation of manufacturing process-labile TT in PLGA was found to: a) obviate micronization- and organic solvent-induced TT degradation, b) improve antigen loading (1.4-1.8 wt% TT) and encapsulation efficiency (~ 97%), c) provide nearly homogeneous distribution and stabilization of antigen in polymer

  8. Effect of medium-chain triglycerides on the release behavior of Endostar encapsulated PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Meng, Boyu; Li, Ling; Hua, Su; Wang, Qingsong; Liu, Chunhui; Xu, Xiangyang; Yin, Xiaojin

    2010-09-15

    The incomplete release of Endostar from PLGA microspheres was observed in our previous study. In the present study, we focused on the effect of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) on the in vitro/in vivo release behavior of Endostar encapsulated PLGA microspheres, which were prepared by a water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double-emulsion method with or without MCT. The in vitro accumulated release of Endostar from microspheres co-encapsulated with 30% MCT was found to be 79.04% after a 30-day incubation period in PBS (pH 7.4) at 37 degrees C. However, the accumulated release of Endostar from MCT-free microspheres was found to be only 32.22%. Pouches containing Endostar encapsulated PLGA microspheres were implanted subcutaneously in rats. The effect of MCT on the in vivo release showed a similar trend to the in vitro release. After 30 days, only 9.87% of the total encapsulated Endostar was retained in microspheres co-encapsulated with 30% MCT, while 42.25% of Endostar was retained in MCT-free microspheres. The co-encapsulation of MCT provided the microspheres with a porous surface, which significantly improved the in vitro/in vivo release of Endostar from PLGA microspheres. In addition, in vitro experiments showed that MCT co-encapsulated PLGA microspheres had more inter-connected pores, faster degradation of PLGA, and faster swelling of microspheres, which helped to explain the mechanism of the effect of MCT on improving the release of Endostar from PLGA microspheres. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. A reproducible accelerated in vitro release testing method for PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Shen, Jie; Lee, Kyulim; Choi, Stephanie; Qu, Wen; Wang, Yan; Burgess, Diane J

    2016-02-10

    The objective of the present study was to develop a discriminatory and reproducible accelerated in vitro release method for long-acting PLGA microspheres with inner structure/porosity differences. Risperidone was chosen as a model drug. Qualitatively and quantitatively equivalent PLGA microspheres with different inner structure/porosity were obtained using different manufacturing processes. Physicochemical properties as well as degradation profiles of the prepared microspheres were investigated. Furthermore, in vitro release testing of the prepared risperidone microspheres was performed using the most common in vitro release methods (i.e., sample-and-separate and flow through) for this type of product. The obtained compositionally equivalent risperidone microspheres had similar drug loading but different inner structure/porosity. When microsphere particle size appeared similar, porous risperidone microspheres showed faster microsphere degradation and drug release compared with less porous microspheres. Both in vitro release methods investigated were able to differentiate risperidone microsphere formulations with differences in porosity under real-time (37 °C) and accelerated (45 °C) testing conditions. Notably, only the accelerated USP apparatus 4 method showed good reproducibility for highly porous risperidone microspheres. These results indicated that the accelerated USP apparatus 4 method is an appropriate fast quality control tool for long-acting PLGA microspheres (even with porous structures). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Safety evaluation of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/poly(lactic-acid) microspheres through intravitreal injection in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Rong, Xianfang; Yuan, Weien; Lu, Yi; Mo, Xiaofen

    2014-01-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and/or poly(lactic-acid) (PLA) microspheres are important drug delivery systems. This study investigated eye biocompatibility and safety of PLGA/PLA microspheres through intravitreal injection in rabbits. Normal New Zealand rabbits were randomly selected and received intravitreal administration of different doses (low, medium, or high) of PLGA/PLA microspheres and erythropoietin-loaded PLGA/PLA microspheres. The animals were clinically examined and sacrificed at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks postadministration, and retinal tissues were prepared for analysis. Retinal reactions to the microspheres were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end staining and glial fibrillary acidic protein immunohistochemistry. Retinal structure changes were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy. Finally, retinal function influences were explored by the electroretinography test. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end staining revealed no apoptotic cells in the injected retinas; immunohistochemistry did not detect any increased glial fibrillary acidic protein expression. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy revealed no micro- or ultrastructure changes in the retinas at different time points postintravitreal injection. The electroretinography test showed no significant influence of scotopic or photopic amplitudes. The results demonstrated that PLGA/PLA microspheres did not cause retinal histological changes or functional damage and were biocompatible and safe enough for intravitreal injection in rabbits for controlled drug delivery.

  11. PLGA-Mesoporous Silicon Microspheres for the in Vivo Controlled Temporospatial Delivery of Proteins.

    PubMed

    Minardi, Silvia; Pandolfi, Laura; Taraballi, Francesca; De Rosa, Enrica; Yazdi, Iman K; Liu, Xeuwu; Ferrari, Mauro; Tasciotti, Ennio

    2015-08-05

    In regenerative medicine, the temporospatially controlled delivery of growth factors (GFs) is crucial to trigger the desired healing mechanisms in the target tissues. The uncontrolled release of GFs has been demonstrated to cause severe side effects in the surrounding tissues. The aim of this study was to optimize a translational approach for the fine temporal and spatial control over the release of proteins, in vivo. Hence, we proposed a newly developed multiscale composite microsphere based on a core consisting of the nanostructured silicon multistage vector (MSV) and a poly(dl-lactide-co-glycolide) acid (PLGA) outer shell. Both of the two components of the resulting composite microspheres (PLGA-MSV) can be independently tailored to achieve multiple release kinetics contributing to the control of the release profile of a reporter protein in vitro. The influence of MSV shape (hemispherical or discoidal) and size (1, 3, or 7 μm) on PLGA-MSV's morphology and size distribution was investigated. Second, the copolymer ratio of the PLGA used to fabricate the outer shell of PLGA-MSV was varied. The composites were fully characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, ζ potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis-differential scanning calorimetry, and their release kinetics over 30 days. PLGA-MSV's biocompatibility was assessed in vitro with J774 macrophages. Finally, the formulation of PLGA-MSV was selected, which concurrently provided the most consistent microsphere size and allowed for a zero-order release kinetic. The selected PLGA-MSVs were injected in a subcutaneous model in mice, and the in vivo release of the reporter protein was followed over 2 weeks by intravital microscopy, to assess if the zero-order release was preserved. PLGA-MSV was able to retain the payload over 2 weeks, avoiding the initial burst release typical of most drug delivery systems. Finally, histological evaluation assessed the

  12. An Accelerated Release Method of Risperidone Loaded PLGA Microspheres with Good IVIVC.

    PubMed

    Hu, Xiaoqin; Zhang, Jianwei; Tang, Xuemei; Li, Mingyuan; Ma, Siyu; Liu, Cheng; Gao, Yue; Zhang, Yue; Liu, Yan; Yu, Fanglin; Yang, Yang; Guo, Jia; Li, Zhiping; Mei, Xingguo

    2018-01-01

    A long release period lasting several days or several weeks is always needed and thereby it is tedious and time consuming to screen formulations of such microspheres with so long release period and evaluate their release profiles in vitro with conventional long-term or "real-time" release method. So, an accelerated release testing of such system is necessary for formulation design as well as quality control purpose. The purpose of this study is to obtain an accelerated release method of risperidone loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres with good in vitro/in vivo correlation (IVIVC). Two formulations of risperidone loaded PLGA microspheres used for evaluating IVIVC were prepared by O/W method. The accelerated release condition was optimized by investigating the effect of pH, osmotic pressure, temperature and ethanol concentration on the release of risperidone from microspheres and the in vitro accelerated release profiles of risperidone from PLGA microspheres were obtained under this optimized accelerated release condition. The plasma concentration of risperidone were also detected after subcutaneous injection of risperidone loaded microspheres to rats. The in vivo cumulative absorption profiles were then calculated using Wagner-Nelson model, Loo- Riegelman model and numerical convolution model, respectively. The correlation between in vitro accelerated release and in vivo cumulative absorption were finally evaluated with Least Square Method. It was shown that temperature and ethanol concentration significantly affected the release of risperidone from the microspheres while pH and osmotic pressure of release media slightly affected the release behavior of risperidone. The in vitro release of risperidone from microspheres were finally undergone in PBS (pH7.0, 300mosm) with 20% (V/V) ethanol at 45°C. The sustained and complete release of risperidone was observed in both formulations under the accelerated release condition although these two release

  13. Prediction of dexamethasone release from PLGA microspheres prepared with polymer blends using a design of experiment approach.

    PubMed

    Gu, Bing; Burgess, Diane J

    2015-11-10

    Hydrophobic drug release from poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres typically exhibits a tri-phasic profile with a burst release phase followed by a lag phase and a secondary release phase. High burst release can be associated with adverse effects and the efficacy of the formulation cannot be ensured during a long lag phase. Accordingly, the development of a long-acting microsphere product requires optimization of all drug release phases. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether a blend of low and high molecular weight polymers can be used to reduce the burst release and eliminate/minimize the lag phase. A single emulsion solvent evaporation method was used to prepare microspheres using blends of two PLGA polymers (PLGA5050 (25 kDa) and PLGA9010 (113 kDa)). A central composite design approach was applied to investigate the effect of formulation composition on dexamethasone release from these microspheres. Mathematical models obtained from this design of experiments study were utilized to generate a design space with maximized microsphere drug loading and reduced burst release. Specifically, a drug loading close to 15% can be achieved and a burst release less than 10% when a composition of 80% PLGA9010 and 90 mg of dexamethasone is used. In order to better describe the lag phase, a heat map was generated based on dexamethasone release from the PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel composite coatings. Using the heat map an optimized formulation with minimum lag phase was selected. The microspheres were also characterized for particle size/size distribution, thermal properties and morphology. The particle size was demonstrated to be related to the polymer concentration and the ratio of the two polymers but not to the dexamethasone concentration. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Double walled POE/PLGA microspheres: encapsulation of water-soluble and water-insoluble proteins and their release properties.

    PubMed

    Shi, Meng; Yang, Yi-Yan; Chaw, Cheng-Shu; Goh, Suat-Hong; Moochhala, Shabbir M; Ng, Steve; Heller, Jorge

    2003-04-29

    The poly(orthoester) (POE)-poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (50:50) (PLGA) double-walled microspheres with 50% POE in weight were loaded with hydrophilic bovine serum albumin (BSA) and hydrophobic cyclosporin A (CyA). Most of the BSA and CyA was entrapped within the shell and core, respectively, because of the difference in their hydrophilicity. The morphologies and release mechanisms of proteins-loaded double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres were investigated. Scanning electron microscope studies revealed that the CyA-BSA-loaded double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres yielded a more porous surface and PLGA shell than those without BSA. The neat POE and PLGA yielded slow and incomplete CyA and BSA release. In contrast, nearly complete BSA and more than 95% CyA were released in a sustained manner from the double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres. Both the BSA- and CyA-BSA-loaded POE/PLGA microspheres yielded a sustained BSA release over 5 days. The CyA release pattern of the CyA-loaded double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres was biphasic, characterized by a slow release over 15 days followed by a sustained release over 27 days. However, the CyA-BSA-loaded double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres provided a more constant and faster CyA release due to their more porous shell. In the CyA-BSA-loaded double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres system, the PLGA layer acted as a carrier for BSA and mild reservoir for CyA. During the first 5 days, most BSA was released from the shell but only 14% CyA was left from the microspheres. Subsequently, more than 80% CyA were released in the next 25 days. The distinct structure of double-walled POE/PLGA microspheres would make an interesting device for controlled delivery of therapeutic agents.

  15. Injectable and porous PLGA microspheres that form highly porous scaffolds at body temperature.

    PubMed

    Qutachi, Omar; Vetsch, Jolanda R; Gill, Daniel; Cox, Helen; Scurr, David J; Hofmann, Sandra; Müller, Ralph; Quirk, Robin A; Shakesheff, Kevin M; Rahman, Cheryl V

    2014-12-01

    Injectable scaffolds are of interest in the field of regenerative medicine because of their minimally invasive mode of delivery. For tissue repair applications, it is essential that such scaffolds have the mechanical properties, porosity and pore diameter to support the formation of new tissue. In the current study, porous poly(dl-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres were fabricated with an average size of 84±24μm for use as injectable cell carriers. Treatment with ethanolic sodium hydroxide for 2min was observed to increase surface porosity without causing the microsphere structure to disintegrate. This surface treatment also enabled the microspheres to fuse together at 37°C to form scaffold structures. The average compressive strength of the scaffolds after 24h at 37°C was 0.9±0.1MPa, and the average Young's modulus was 9.4±1.2MPa. Scaffold porosity levels were 81.6% on average, with a mean pore diameter of 54±38μm. This study demonstrates a method for fabricating porous PLGA microspheres that form solid porous scaffolds at body temperature, creating an injectable system capable of supporting NIH-3T3 cell attachment and proliferation in vitro. Copyright © 2014 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Injectable and porous PLGA microspheres that form highly porous scaffolds at body temperature

    PubMed Central

    Qutachi, Omar; Vetsch, Jolanda R.; Gill, Daniel; Cox, Helen; Scurr, David J.; Hofmann, Sandra; Müller, Ralph; Quirk, Robin A.; Shakesheff, Kevin M.; Rahman, Cheryl V.

    2014-01-01

    Injectable scaffolds are of interest in the field of regenerative medicine because of their minimally invasive mode of delivery. For tissue repair applications, it is essential that such scaffolds have the mechanical properties, porosity and pore diameter to support the formation of new tissue. In the current study, porous poly(dl-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres were fabricated with an average size of 84 ± 24 μm for use as injectable cell carriers. Treatment with ethanolic sodium hydroxide for 2 min was observed to increase surface porosity without causing the microsphere structure to disintegrate. This surface treatment also enabled the microspheres to fuse together at 37 °C to form scaffold structures. The average compressive strength of the scaffolds after 24 h at 37 °C was 0.9 ± 0.1 MPa, and the average Young’s modulus was 9.4 ± 1.2 MPa. Scaffold porosity levels were 81.6% on average, with a mean pore diameter of 54 ± 38 μm. This study demonstrates a method for fabricating porous PLGA microspheres that form solid porous scaffolds at body temperature, creating an injectable system capable of supporting NIH-3T3 cell attachment and proliferation in vitro. PMID:25152354

  17. Physicochemical characterization of spray-dried PLGA/PEG microspheres, and preliminary assessment of biological response.

    PubMed

    Javiya, Curie; Jonnalagadda, Sriramakamal

    2016-09-01

    The use of spray-drying to prepare blended PLGA:PEG microspheres with lower immune detection. To study physical properties, polymer miscibility and alveolar macrophage response for blended PLGA:PEG microspheres prepared by a laboratory-scale spray-drying process. Microspheres were prepared by spray-drying 0-20% w/w ratios of PLGA 65:35 and PEG 3350 in dichloromethane. Particle size and morphology was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Polymer miscibility and residual solvent levels evaluated by thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry - DSC and thermogravimetric analysis - TGA). Immunogenicity was assessed in vitro by response of rat alveolar macrophages (NR8383) by the MTT-based cell viability assay and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection. The spray dried particles were spherical, with a size range of about 2-3 µm and a yield of 16-60%. Highest yield was obtained at 1% PEG concentration. Thermal analysis showed a melting peak at 59 °C (enthalpy: 170.61 J/g) and a degradation-onset of 180 °C for PEG 3350. PLGA 65:35 was amorphous, with a Tg of 43 °C. Blended PLGA:PEG microspheres showed a delayed degradation-onset of 280 °C, and PEG enthalpy-loss corresponding to 15% miscibility of PEG in PLGA. NR8383 viability studies and ROS detection upon exposure to these cells suggested that blended PLGA:PEG microspheres containing 1 and 5% PEG are optimal in controling cell proliferation and activation. This research establishes the feasibility of using a spray-drying process to prepare spherical particles (2-3 µm) of molecularly-blended PLGA 65:35 and PEG 3350. A PEG concentration of 1-5% was optimal to maximize process yield, with minimal potential for immune detection.

  18. MAPs/bFGF-PLGA microsphere composite-coated titanium surfaces promote increased adhesion and proliferation of fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Wang, Zhongshan; Wu, Guofeng; Bai, Shizhu; Feng, Zhihong; Dong, Yan; Zhou, Jian; Qin, Haiyan; Zhao, Yimin

    2014-06-01

    Infection and epithelial downgrowth are two major problems with maxillofacial transcutaneous implants, and both are mainly due to lack of stable closure of soft tissues at transcutaneous sites. Fibroblasts have been shown to play a key role in the formation of biological seals. In this work, titanium (Ti) model surfaces were coated with mussel adhesive proteins (MAPs) utilizing its unique adhesion ability on diverse inorganic and organic surfaces in wet environments. Prepared basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres can be easily synthesized and combined onto MAPs-coated Ti surfaces, due to the negative surface charges of microspheres in aqueous solution, which is in contrast to the positive charges of MAPs. Titanium model surfaces were divided into three groups. Group A: MAPs/bFGF-PLGA microspheres composite-coated Ti surfaces. Group B: MAPs-coated Ti surfaces. Group C: uncoated Ti surfaces. The effects of coated Ti surfaces on adhesion of fibroblasts, cytoskeletal organization, proliferation, and extracellular matrix (ECM)-related gene expressions were examined. The results revealed increased adhesion (P < 0.05), enhanced actin cytoskeletal organization, and up-regulated ECM-related gene expressions in groups A and B compared with group C. Increased proliferation of fibroblasts during five days of incubation was observed in group A compared with groups B and C (P < 0.05). Collectively, the results from this in vitro study demonstrated that MAPs/bFGF-PLGA microspheres composite-coated Ti surfaces had the ability to increase fibroblast functionality. In addition, MAPs/bFGF-PLGA microsphere composite-coated Ti surfaces should be studied further as a method of promoting formation of stable biological seals around transcutaneous sites.

  19. Preparation and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of PLGA microspheres containing norquetiapine for long-acting injection.

    PubMed

    Park, Chun-Woong; Lee, Hyo-Jung; Oh, Dong-Won; Kang, Ji-Hyun; Han, Chang-Soo; Kim, Dong-Wook

    2018-01-01

    Norquetiapine ( N -desalkyl quetiapine, NQ) is an active metabolite of quetiapine with stable pharmacokinetic and pharmacological properties. However, its short half-life is a drawback for clinical applications, and long-acting formulations are required. The objectives of this study were to prepare improved entrapment efficiency NQ freebase microspheres by the solvent evaporation method with poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) as a release modulator and to evaluate their physicochemical and in vitro/in vivo release properties. NQ freebase PLGA (1:5 w/w) formulations were prepared by the oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion-solvent evaporation method. A solution of the drug and PLGA in 9:1 v/v dichloromethane:ethanol was mixed with 0.2% polyvinyl alcohol and homogenized at 2,800 rpm. The emulsion was stirred for 3 h to dilute and evaporate the solvent. After that, the resulting product was freeze-dried. Drug-loading capacity was measured by the validated RP-HPLC method. The surface morphology of the microspheres was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the physicochemical properties were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy particle size distribution. The in vitro dissolution test was performed using a rotary shaking bath at 37°C, with constant shaking at 50 rpm in sink condition. The NQ freebase microspheres prepared by o/w emulsion-solvent evaporation showed over 30% efficiency. NQ was confirmed to be amorphous in the microspheres by powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. Special chemical interaction in the microspheres was not observed by FT-IR. The in vitro dissolution test demonstrated that the prepared microspheres' release properties were maintained for more than 20 days. The in vivo test also confirmed that the particles' long acting properties were maintained. Therefore, good in vitro-in vivo correlation was established. In this study, NQ

  20. Synthesis and characterization of poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) complex microspheres as drug carriers.

    PubMed

    Wang, Fang; Liu, Xiuxiu; Yuan, Jian; Yang, Siqian; Li, Yueqin; Gao, Qinwei

    2016-10-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) is synthesized via melt polycondensation directly from lactic acid and glycolic acid with a feed molar ratio of 75/25. Bovine serum albumin, which is used as model protein, is entrapped into the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres with particle size of 260.9 ± 20.0 nm by the double emulsification method. Then it is the first report of producing more carboxyl groups by poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) surface hydrolysis. The purpose is developing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres surface, which is modified with chitosan by chemical reaction between carboxyl groups and amine groups. The particle size and the positive zeta potential of the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/chitosan microspheres are 388.2 ± 35.6 nm and 10.4 ± 2.9 mV, respectively. The drug loading ratio and encapsulation efficacy of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/chitosan microspheres are 36.3% and 57.5%, which are higher than PLGA microspheres. Furthermore, the drug burst release of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/chitosan microspheres at 10 h is decreased to 21.72% while the corresponding value of the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microsphere is 64.56%. These results reveal that surface hydrolysis modification of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) is an efficient method to improve the negative potential and chemical reaction properties of the polymer. And furthermore, this study shows that chitosan-modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres is a promising system for the controlled release of pharmaceutical proteins. © The Author(s) 2016.

  1. Effect of Polymer Porosity on Aqueous Self-Healing Encapsulation of Proteins in PLGA Microspheres

    PubMed Central

    Reinhold, Samuel E.

    2014-01-01

    Self-healing (SH) poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres are a unique class of functional biomaterials capable of microencapsulating process-sensitive proteins by simple mixing and heating the drug-free polymer in aqueous protein solution. Drug-free SH microspheres of PLGA 50/50 with percolating pore networks of varying porosity (ε = 0.49–73) encapsulate increasing lysozyme (~1–10% w/w) with increasing ε, with typically ~20–25% pores estimated assessible to entry by the enzyme from the external solution. Release kinetics of lysozyme under physiological conditions is continuous over > 2 weeks and most strongly influenced by ε and protein loading before reaching a lag phase until 28 days at the study completion. Recovered enzyme after release is typically predominantly monomeric and active. Formulations containing acid-neutralizing MgCO3 at >4.3% exhibit >97% monomeric and active protein after the release with full mass balance recovery. Hence, control of SH polymer ε is a key parameter to development of this new class of biomaterials. PMID:24285573

  2. Fabrication and evaluation of a sustained-release chitosan-based scaffold embedded with PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Song, Kedong; Liu, Yingchao; Macedo, Hugo M; Jiang, Lili; Li, Chao; Mei, Guanyu; Liu, Tianqing

    2013-04-01

    Nutrient depletion within three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds is one of the major hurdles in the use of this technology to grow cells for applications in tissue engineering. In order to help in addressing it, we herein propose to use the controlled release of encapsulated nutrients within polymer microspheres into chitosan-based 3D scaffolds, wherein the microspheres are embedded. This method has allowed maintaining a stable concentration of nutrients within the scaffolds over the long term. The polymer microspheres were prepared using multiple emulsions (w/o/w), in which bovine serum albumin (BSA) and poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) were regarded as the protein pattern and the exoperidium material, respectively. These were then mixed with a chitosan solution in order to form the scaffolds by cryo-desiccation. The release of BSA, entrapped within the embedded microspheres, was monitored with time using a BCA kit. The morphology and structure of the PLGA microspheres containing BSA before and after embedding within the scaffold were observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). These had a round shape with diameters in the range of 27-55 μm, whereas the chitosan-based scaffolds had a uniform porous structure with the microspheres uniformly dispersed within their 3D structure and without any morphological change. In addition, the porosity, water absorption and degradation rate at 37 °C in an aqueous environment of 1% chitosan-based scaffolds were (92.99±2.51) %, (89.66±0.66) % and (73.77±3.21) %, respectively. The studies of BSA release from the embedded microspheres have shown a sustained and cumulative tendency with little initial burst, with (20.24±0.83) % of the initial amount released after 168 h (an average rate of 0.12%/h). The protein concentration within the chitosan-based scaffolds after 168 h was found to be (11.44±1.81)×10(-2) mg/mL. This novel chitosan-based scaffold embedded with PLGA microspheres has proven to be a promising technique

  3. Effect of a freeze-dried CMC/PLGA microsphere matrix of rhBMP-2 on bone healing.

    PubMed

    Schrier, J A; Fink, B F; Rodgers, J B; Vasconez, H C; DeLuca, P P

    2001-10-07

    The hypothesis of this research was that implants of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres loaded with bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) and distributed in a freeze-dried carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) matrix would produce more new bone than would matrix implants of non-protein-loaded microspheres or matrix implants of only CMC. To test this hypothesis it was necessary to fashion microsphere-loaded CMC implants that were simple to insert, fit precisely into a defect, and would not elicit swelling. Microspheres were produced via a water-in-oil-in-water double-emulsion system and were loaded with rhBMP-2 by soaking them in a buffered solution of the protein at a concentration of 5.4 mg protein per gram of PLGA. Following recovery of the loaded microspheres by lyophilization, matrices for implantation were prepared by lyophilizing a suspension of the microspheres in 2% CMC in flat-bottom tissue culture plates. Similar matrices were made with 2% CMC and with 2% CMC containing blank microspheres. A full-thickness calvarial defect model in New Zealand white rabbits was used to assess bone growth. Implants fit the defect well, allowing for direct application. Six weeks postsurgery, defects were collected and processed for undecalcified histology. In vitro, 60% of the loaded rhBMP-2 released from devices or microspheres in 5 to 7 days, with the unembedded microspheres releasing faster than those embedded in CMC. In vivo, the rhBMP-2 microspheres greatly enhanced bone healing, whereas nonloaded PLGA microspheres in the CMC implants had little effect. The results showed that a lyophilized device of rhBMP-2/PLGA microspheres in CMC was an effective implantable protein-delivery system for use in bone repair.

  4. Computational Intelligence Modeling of the Macromolecules Release from PLGA Microspheres-Focus on Feature Selection.

    PubMed

    Zawbaa, Hossam M; Szlȩk, Jakub; Grosan, Crina; Jachowicz, Renata; Mendyk, Aleksander

    2016-01-01

    Poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) is a copolymer of lactic and glycolic acid. Drug release from PLGA microspheres depends not only on polymer properties but also on drug type, particle size, morphology of microspheres, release conditions, etc. Selecting a subset of relevant properties for PLGA is a challenging machine learning task as there are over three hundred features to consider. In this work, we formulate the selection of critical attributes for PLGA as a multiobjective optimization problem with the aim of minimizing the error of predicting the dissolution profile while reducing the number of attributes selected. Four bio-inspired optimization algorithms: antlion optimization, binary version of antlion optimization, grey wolf optimization, and social spider optimization are used to select the optimal feature set for predicting the dissolution profile of PLGA. Besides these, LASSO algorithm is also used for comparisons. Selection of crucial variables is performed under the assumption that both predictability and model simplicity are of equal importance to the final result. During the feature selection process, a set of input variables is employed to find minimum generalization error across different predictive models and their settings/architectures. The methodology is evaluated using predictive modeling for which various tools are chosen, such as Cubist, random forests, artificial neural networks (monotonic MLP, deep learning MLP), multivariate adaptive regression splines, classification and regression tree, and hybrid systems of fuzzy logic and evolutionary computations (fugeR). The experimental results are compared with the results reported by Szlȩk. We obtain a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) of 15.97% versus 15.4%, and the number of selected input features is smaller, nine versus eleven.

  5. Accelerated in vitro release testing of implantable PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel composite coatings

    PubMed Central

    Shen, Jie; Burgess, Diane J.

    2011-01-01

    Dexamethasone loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microsphere/PVA hydrogel composites have been investigated as an outer drug-eluting coating for implantable devices such as glucose sensors to counter negative tissue responses to implants. The objective of this study was to develop a discriminatory, accelerated in vitro release testing method for this drug-eluting coating using United States Pharmacopeia (USP) apparatus 4. Polymer degradation and drug release kinetics were investigated under “real-time” and accelerated conditions (i.e. extreme pH, hydro-alcoholic solutions and elevated temperatures). Compared to “real-time” conditions, the initial burst and lag phases were similar using hydro-alcoholic solutions and extreme pH conditions, while the secondary apparent zero-order release phase was slightly accelerated. Elevated temperatures resulted in a significant acceleration of dexamethasone release. The accelerated release data were able to predict “real-time” release when applying the Arrhenius equation. Microsphere batches with faster and slower release profiles were investigated under “real-time” and elevated temperature (60°C) conditions to determine the discriminatory ability of the method. The results demonstrated both the feasibility and the discriminatory ability of this USP apparatus 4 method for in vitro release testing of drug loaded PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel composites. This method may be appropriate for similar drug/device combination products and drug delivery systems. PMID:22016033

  6. Accelerated in vitro release testing of implantable PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel composite coatings.

    PubMed

    Shen, Jie; Burgess, Diane J

    2012-01-17

    Dexamethasone loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microsphere/PVA hydrogel composites have been investigated as an outer drug-eluting coating for implantable devices such as glucose sensors to counter negative tissue responses to implants. The objective of this study was to develop a discriminatory, accelerated in vitro release testing method for this drug-eluting coating using United States Pharmacopeia (USP) apparatus 4. Polymer degradation and drug release kinetics were investigated under "real-time" and accelerated conditions (i.e. extreme pH, hydro-alcoholic solutions and elevated temperatures). Compared to "real-time" conditions, the initial burst and lag phases were similar using hydro-alcoholic solutions and extreme pH conditions, while the secondary apparent zero-order release phase was slightly accelerated. Elevated temperatures resulted in a significant acceleration of dexamethasone release. The accelerated release data were able to predict "real-time" release when applying the Arrhenius equation. Microsphere batches with faster and slower release profiles were investigated under "real-time" and elevated temperature (60°C) conditions to determine the discriminatory ability of the method. The results demonstrated both the feasibility and the discriminatory ability of this USP apparatus 4 method for in vitro release testing of drug loaded PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel composites. This method may be appropriate for similar drug/device combination products and drug delivery systems. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Usnic acid-loaded biocompatible magnetic PLGA-PVA microsphere thin films fabricated by MAPLE with increased resistance to staphylococcal colonization.

    PubMed

    Grumezescu, V; Holban, A M; Grumezescu, A M; Socol, G; Ficai, A; Vasile, B S; Truscă, R; Bleotu, C; Lazar, V; Chifiriuc, C M; Mogosanu, G D

    2014-09-01

    Due to their persistence and resistance to the current therapeutic approaches, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm-associated infections represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the hospital environment. Since (+)-usnic acid (UA), a secondary lichen metabolite, possesses antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive cocci, including S. aureus, the aim of this study was to load magnetic polylactic-co-glycolic acid-polyvinyl alcohol (PLGA-PVA) microspheres with UA, then to obtain thin coatings using matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation and to quantitatively assess the capacity of the bio-nano-active modified surface to control biofilm formation by S. aureus, using a culture-based assay. The UA-loaded microspheres inhibited both the initial attachment of S. aureus to the coated surfaces, as well as the development of mature biofilms. In vitro bioevalution tests performed on the fabricated thin films revealed great biocompatibility, which may endorse them as competitive candidates for the development of improved non-toxic surfaces resistant to S. aureus colonization and as scaffolds for stem cell cultivation and tissue engineering.

  8. Coating and release of an anti-inflammatory hormone from PLGA microspheres for tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Go, Dewi P; Palmer, Jason A; Gras, Sally L; O'Connor, Andrea J

    2012-02-01

    Many biomaterials used in tissue engineering cause a foreign body response in vivo, which left untreated can severely reduce the effectiveness of tissue regeneration. In this study, an anti-inflammatory hormone α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) was physically adsorbed to the surface of biodegradable poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microspheres to reduce inflammatory responses to this material. The stability and adsorption isotherm of peptide binding were characterized. The peptide secondary structure was not perturbed by the adsorption and subsequent desorption process. The α-MSH payload was released over 72 h and reduced the expression of the inflammatory cytokine, Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in lipopolysaccharide activated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, indicating that the biological activity of α-MSH was preserved. α-MSH coated PLGA microspheres also appeared to reduce the influx of inflammatory cells in a subcutaneous implantation model in rats. This study demonstrates the potential of α-MSH coatings for anti-inflammatory delivery and this approach may be applied to other tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Evaluation of polyesteramide (PEA) and polyester (PLGA) microspheres as intravitreal drug delivery systems in albino rats.

    PubMed

    Peters, Tobias; Kim, Seong-Woo; Castro, Vinicius; Stingl, Krunoslav; Strasser, Torsten; Bolz, Sylvia; Schraermeyer, Ulrich; Mihov, George; Zong, MengMeng; Andres-Guerrero, Vanessa; Herrero Vanrell, Rocio; Dias, Aylvin A; Cameron, Neil R; Zrenner, Eberhart

    2017-04-01

    To study the suitability of injectable microspheres based on poly(ester amide) (PEA) or poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) as potential vehicles for intravitreal drug delivery in rat eyes. Dexamethasone-loaded PEA microspheres (PEA + DEX) were also evaluated. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups that received different intravitreally injected microspheres: PEA group (n = 12); PLGA group (n = 12); PEA + DEX group (n = 8); and control group (no injection, n = 8). Electroretinography (ERG), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (sdOCT) were performed at baseline, weeks 1 and 2, and months 1, 2, and 3 after intravitreal injection. Eyes were histologically examined using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy at the end of the in vivo study. There were no statistically significant changes in ERG among the groups. Abnormal FAF pattern and abnormal deposits in OCT were observed after injection but almost completely disappeared between week 2 and month 3 in all injected groups. GFAP staining showed that Müller glia cell activation was most pronounced in PLGA-injected eyes. Increased cell death was not observed by TUNEL staining at month 1. In electron microscopy at month 3, the remnants of microparticles were found in the retinal cells of all injected groups, and loss of plasma membrane was seen in the PLGA group. Although morphological changes such as mild glial activation and material remnants were observed histologically 1 month and 3 months after injection in all injected groups, minor cell damage was noted only in the PLGA group at 3 months after injection. No evidence of functional abnormality relative to untreated eyes could be detected by ERG 3 months after injection in all groups. Changes observed in in vivo imaging such as OCT and FAF disappeared after 3 months in almost all cases. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. The Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Lidocaine-Loaded Biodegradable Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Microspheres

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Jianming; Lv, Xin

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to develop novel lidocaine microspheres. Microspheres were prepared by the oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion technique using poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide acid) (PLGA) for the controlled delivery of lidocaine. The average diameter of lidocaine PLGA microspheres was 2.34 ± 0.3 μm. The poly disperse index was 0.21 ± 0.03, and the zeta potential was +0.34 ± 0.02 mV. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading of the prepared microspheres were 90.5% ± 4.3% and 11.2% ± 1.4%. In vitro release indicated that the lidocaine microspheres had a well-sustained release efficacy, and in vivo studies showed that the area under the curve of lidocaine in microspheres was 2.02–2.06-fold that of lidocaine injection (p < 0.05). The pharmacodynamics results showed that lidocaine microspheres showed a significant release effect in rats, that the process to achieve efficacy was calm and lasting and that the analgesic effect had a significant dose-dependency. PMID:25268618

  11. A dual-application poly (dl-lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-chitosan composite scaffold for potential use in bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Boukari, Yamina; Qutachi, Omar; Scurr, David J; Morris, Andrew P; Doughty, Stephen W; Billa, Nashiru

    2017-11-01

    The development of patient-friendly alternatives to bone-graft procedures is the driving force for new frontiers in bone tissue engineering. Poly (dl-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and chitosan are well-studied and easy-to-process polymers from which scaffolds can be fabricated. In this study, a novel dual-application scaffold system was formulated from porous PLGA and protein-loaded PLGA/chitosan microspheres. Physicochemical and in vitro protein release attributes were established. The therapeutic relevance, cytocompatibility with primary human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and osteogenic properties were tested. There was a significant reduction in burst release from the composite PLGA/chitosan microspheres compared with PLGA alone. Scaffolds sintered from porous microspheres at 37 °C were significantly stronger than the PLGA control, with compressive strengths of 0.846 ± 0.272 MPa and 0.406 ± 0.265 MPa, respectively (p < 0.05). The formulation also sintered at 37 °C following injection through a needle, demonstrating its injectable potential. The scaffolds demonstrated cytocompatibility, with increased cell numbers observed over an 8-day study period. Von Kossa and immunostaining of the hMSC-scaffolds confirmed their osteogenic potential with the ability to sinter at 37 °C in situ.

  12. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of calcium phosphate composite scaffolds containing BMP-VEGF loaded PLGA microspheres for the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Hao-Xuan; Zhang, Xiu-Ping; Xiao, Gui-Yong; Hou, Yong; Cheng, Lei; Si, Meng; Wang, Shuai-Shuai; Li, Yu-Hua; Nie, Lin

    2016-03-01

    Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) is difficult to treat due to high pressure and hypoxia, and reduced levels of growth factors such as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We generated a novel calcium phosphate (CPC) composite scaffold, which contains BMP-VEGF-loaded poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microspheres (BMP-VEGF-PLGA-CPC). The BMP-VEGF-loaded microspheres have an encapsulation efficiency of 89.15% for BMP, and 78.55% for VEGF. The BMP-VEGF-PLGA-CPC scaffold also demonstrated a porosity of 62% with interconnected porous structures, and pore sizes of 219 μm and compressive strength of 6.60 MPa. Additionally, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were seeded on scaffolds in vitro. Further characterization showed that the BMP-VEGF-PLGA-CPC scaffolds were biocompatible and enhanced osteogenesis and angiogenesis in vitro. Using a rabbit model of ANFH, BMP-VEGF-PLGA-CPC scaffolds were implanted into the bone tunnels of core decompression in the femoral head for 6 and 12 weeks. Radiographic and histological analysis demonstrated that the BMP-VEGF-PLGA-CPC scaffolds exhibited good biocompatibility, and osteogenic and angiogenic activity in vivo. These results indicate that the BMP-VEGF-PLGA-CPC scaffold may improve the therapeutic effect of core decompression surgery and be used as a treatment for ANFH. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. BMP-2/PLGA delayed-release microspheres composite graft, selection of bone particulate diameters, and prevention of aseptic inflammation for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Ji, Ye; Xu, Gong Ping; Zhang, Zhi Peng; Xia, Jing Jun; Yan, Jing Long; Pan, Shang Ha

    2010-03-01

    Autogenous bone grafts are widely used in the repair of bone defects. Growth factors such as bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) can induce bone regeneration and enhance bone growth. The combination of an autogenous bone graft and BMP-2 may provide a better osteogenic effect than either treatment alone, but BMP-2 is easily inactivated in body fluid. The objective of this study was to develop a technique that can better preserve the in vivo activity of BMP-2 incorporated in bone grafts. In this study, we first prepared BMP-2/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) delayed-release microspheres, and then combined collagen, the delayed-release microspheres, and rat autologous bone particulates to form four groups of composite grafts with different combinations: collagen in group A; collagen combined with bone particulates in group B; collagen combined with BMP-2/PLGA delayed-release microspheres in group C; and collagen combined with both bone particulates and BMP-2/PLGA delayed-release microspheres in group D. The four groups of composite grafts were implanted into the gluteus maximus pockets in rats. The ectopic osteogenesis and ALP level in group D (experimental group) were compared with those in groups A, B, and C (control groups) to study whether it had higher osteogenic capability. Results showed that the composite graft design increased the utility of BMP-2 and reduced the required dose of BMP-2 and volume of autologous bone. The selection of bone particulate diameter had an impact on the osteogenetic potential of bone grafts. Collagen prevented the occurrence of aseptic inflammation and improved the osteoinductivity of BMP-2. These results showed that this composite graft design is effective and feasible for use in bone repair.

  14. Controlled delivery of tauroursodeoxycholic acid from biodegradable microspheres slows retinal degeneration and vision loss in P23H rats

    PubMed Central

    Lax, Pedro; Arranz-Romera, Alicia; Maneu, Victoria; Esteban-Pérez, Sergio; Pinilla, Isabel; Puebla-González, María del Mar; Herrero-Vanrell, Rocío

    2017-01-01

    Successful drug therapies for treating ocular diseases require effective concentrations of neuroprotective compounds maintained over time at the site of action. The purpose of this work was to assess the efficacy of intravitreal controlled delivery of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) encapsulated in poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres for the treatment of the retina in a rat model of retinitis pigmentosa. PLGA microspheres (MSs) containing TUDCA were produced by the O/W emulsion-solvent evaporation technique. Particle size and morphology were assessed by light scattering and scanning electronic microscopy, respectively. Homozygous P23H line 3 rats received a treatment of intravitreal injections of TUDCA-PLGA MSs. Retinal function was assessed by electroretinography at P30, P60, P90 and P120. The density, structure and synaptic contacts of retinal neurons were analyzed using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy at P90 and P120. TUDCA-loaded PLGA MSs were spherical, with a smooth surface. The production yield was 78%, the MSs mean particle size was 23 μm and the drug loading resulted 12.5 ± 0.8 μg TUDCA/mg MSs. MSs were able to deliver the loaded active compound in a gradual and progressive manner over the 28-day in vitro release study. Scotopic electroretinografic responses showed increased ERG a- and b-wave amplitudes in TUDCA-PLGA-MSs-treated eyes as compared to those injected with unloaded PLGA particles. TUDCA-PLGA-MSs-treated eyes showed more photoreceptor rows than controls. The synaptic contacts of photoreceptors with bipolar and horizontal cells were also preserved in P23H rats treated with TUDCA-PLGA MSs. This work indicates that the slow and continuous delivery of TUDCA from PLGA-MSs has potential neuroprotective effects that could constitute a suitable therapy to prevent neurodegeneration and visual loss in retinitis pigmentosa. PMID:28542454

  15. Controlled delivery of a hydrophilic drug from a biodegradable microsphere system by supercritical anti-solvent precipitation technique.

    PubMed

    Lee, S; Kim, M S; Kim, J S; Park, H J; Woo, J S; Lee, B C; Hwang, S J

    2006-11-01

    The purpose of this study was to prepare microspheres loaded with hydrophilic drug, bupivacaine HCl using poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA). Microspheres were prepared with varying the PLGA/PLLA ratio with two different levels of bupivacaine HCl (5 and 10%) using a supercritical anti-solvent (SAS) technique. Microspheres ranging from 4-10 microm in geometric mean diameter could be prepared, with high loading efficiency. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) revealed that bupivacaine HCl retained its crystalline state within the polymer and was present as a dispersion within the polymer phase after SAS processing. The release of bupivacaine HCl from biodegradable polymer microspheres was rapid up to 4 h, thereafter bupivacaine HCl was continuously and slowly released for at least 7 days according to the PLGA/PLLA ratio and the molecular weight of PLLA.

  16. The application of novel nano-thermal and imaging techniques for monitoring drug microstructure and distribution within PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Yang, Fan; Chen, De; Guo, Zhe-Fei; Zhang, Yong-Ming; Liu, Yi; Askin, Sean; Craig, Duncan Q M; Zhao, Min

    2017-04-30

    Poly (d,l-lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) based microspheres have been extensively used as controlled drug release systems. However, the burst effect has been a persistent issue associated with such systems, especially for those prepared by the double emulsion technique. An effective approach to preventing the burst effect and achieving a more ideal drug release profile is to improve the drug distribution within the polymeric matrix. Therefore, it is of great importance to establish a rapid and robust tool for screening and optimizing the drug distribution during pre-formulation. Transition Temperature Microscopy (TTM), a novel nano-thermal and imaging technique, is an extension of nano-thermal analysis (nano-TA) whereby a transition temperature is detected at a localized region of a sample and then designated a color based on a particular temperature/color palette, finally resulting in a coded map based on transition temperatures detected by carrying out a series of nanoTA measurements across the surface of the sample. In this study, we investigate the feasibility of applying the aforementioned technique combined with other thermal, imaging and structural techniques for monitoring the drug microstructure and spatial distribution within bovine serum albumin (BSA) loaded and nimodipine loaded PLGA microspheres, with a view to better predicting the in vitro drug release performance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Core/shell PLGA microspheres with controllable in vivo release profile via rational core phase design.

    PubMed

    Yu, Meiling; Yao, Qing; Zhang, Yan; Chen, Huilin; He, Haibing; Zhang, Yu; Yin, Tian; Tang, Xing; Xu, Hui

    2018-02-27

    Highly soluble drugs tend to release from preparations at high speeds, which make them need to be taken at frequent intervals. Additionally, some drugs need to be controlled to release in vivo at certain periods, so as to achieve therapeutic effects. Thus, the objective of this study is to design injectable microparticulate systems with controllable in vivo release profile. Biodegradable PLGA was used as the matrix material to fabricate microspheres using the traditional double emulsification-solvent evaporation method as well as improved techniques, with gel (5% gelatine or 25% F127) or LP powders as the inner phases. Their physicochemical properties were systemically investigated. Microspheres prepared by modified methods had an increase in drug loading (15.50, 16.72, 15.66%, respectively) and encapsulation efficiencies (73.46, 79.42, 74.40%, respectively) when compared with traditional methods (12.01 and 57.06%). The morphology of the particles was characterized by optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the amorphous nature of the encapsulated drug was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. To evaluate their release behaviour, the in vitro degradation, in vitro release and in vivo pharmacodynamics were subsequently studied. Traditional microspheres prepared in this study with water as the inner phase had a relatively short release period within 16 d when compared with modified microspheres with 5% gelatine as the inner phase, which resulted in a smooth release profile and appropriate plasma LP concentrations over 21 d. Thus this type of modified microspheres can be better used in drugs requiring sustained release. The other two formulations containing 25% F127 and LP micropowders presented two-stage release profiles, resulting in fluctuant plasma LP concentrations which may be suitable for drugs requiring controlled release. All the results suggested that drug release rates from

  18. Accelerated in vitro release testing method for naltrexone loaded PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Andhariya, Janki V; Choi, Stephanie; Wang, Yan; Zou, Yuan; Burgess, Diane J; Shen, Jie

    2017-03-30

    The objective of the present study was to develop a discriminatory and reproducible accelerated release testing method for naltrexone loaded parenteral polymeric microspheres. The commercially available naltrexone microsphere product (Vivitrol ® ) was used as the testing formulation in the in vitro release method development, and both sample-and-separate and USP apparatus 4 methods were investigated. Following an in vitro drug stability study, frequent media replacement and addition of anti-oxidant in the release medium were used to prevent degradation of naltrexone during release testing at "real-time" (37°C) and "accelerated" (45°C), respectively. The USP apparatus 4 method was more reproducible than the sample-and-separate method. In addition, the accelerated release profile obtained using USP apparatus 4 had a shortened release duration (within seven days), and good correlation with the "real-time" release profile. Lastly, the discriminatory ability of the developed accelerated release method was assessed using compositionally equivalent naltrexone microspheres with different release characteristics. The developed accelerated USP apparatus 4 release method was able to detect differences in the release characteristics of the prepared naltrexone microspheres. Moreover, a linear correlation was observed between the "real-time" and accelerated release profiles of all the formulations investigated, suggesting that the release mechanism(s) may be similar under both conditions. These results indicate that the developed accelerated USP apparatus 4 method has the potential to be an appropriate fast quality control tool for long-acting naltrexone PLGA microspheres. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Release of a wound-healing agent from PLGA microspheres in a thermosensitive gel.

    PubMed

    Machado, H A; Abercrombie, J J; You, T; Deluca, P P; Leung, K P

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this research was to develop a topical microsphere delivery system in a thermosensitive 20% poloxamer 407 gel (Pluronic F127) to control release of KSL-W, a cationic antimicrobial decapeptide, for a period of 4-7 days for potential application in combat related injuries. KSL-W loaded microsphere formulations were prepared by a solvent extraction-evaporation method (water-oil-water), with poly (D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) (50 : 50, low-weight, and hydrophilic end) as the polymeric system. After optimization of the process, three formulations (A, B, and C) were prepared with different organic to water ratio of the primary emulsion while maintaining other components and manufacturing parameters constant. Formulations were characterized for surface morphology, porous nature, drug loading, in vitro drug release, and antimicrobial activity. Microspheres containing 20% peptide with porous surfaces and internal structure were prepared in satisfactory yields and in sizes varying from 25 to 50 μm. Gels of 20% Pluronic F127, which were liquid at or below 24.6°C and formed transparent films at body temperature, were used as carriers for the microspheres. Rheological studies showed a gelation temperature of 24.6°C for the 20% Pluronic F127 gel alone. Gelation temperature and viscosity of formulations A, B, and C as a function of temperature were very close to those of the carrier. A Franz diffusion cell system was used to study the release of peptide from the microspheres suspended in both, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and a 20% Pluronic F127 gel. In vitro release of greater than 50% peptide was found in all formulations in both PBS and the gel, and in one formulation there was a release of 75% in both PBS and the gel. Fractions collected from the release process were also tested for bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis using the broth microdilution method and found to provide effective antimicrobial activity to warrant

  20. Protective effect of recombinant staphylococcal enterotoxin A entrapped in polylactic-co-glycolic acid microspheres against Staphylococcus aureus infection

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Staphylococcus aureus is an important cause of nosocomial and community-acquired infections in humans and animals, as well as the cause of mastitis in dairy cattle. Vaccines aimed at preventing S. aureus infection in bovine mastitis have been studied for many years, but have so far been unsuccessful due to the complexity of the bacteria, and the lack of suitable vaccine delivery vehicles. The current study developed an Escherichia coli protein expression system that produced a recombinant staphylococcal enterotoxin A (rSEA) encapsulated into biodegradable microparticles generated by polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) dissolved in methylene chloride and stabilized with polyvinyl acetate. Antigen loading and surface properties of the microparticles were investigated to optimize particle preparation protocols. The prepared PLGA-rSEA microspheres had a diameter of approximately 5 μm with a smooth and regular surface. The immunogenicity of the PLGA-rSEA vaccine was assessed using mice as an animal model and showed that the vaccine induced a strong humoral immune response and increased the percent survival of challenged mice and bacterial clearance. Histological analysis showed moderate impairment caused by the pathogen upon challenge afforded by immunization with PLGA-rSEA microspheres. Antibody titer in the sera of mice immunized with PLGA-rSEA microparticles was higher than in vaccinated mice with rSEA. In conclusion, the PLGA-rSEA microparticle vaccine developed here could potentially be used as a vaccine against enterotoxigenic S. aureus. PMID:22429499

  1. A novel accelerated in vitro release method to evaluate the release of thymopentin from PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Xie, Xiangyang; Li, Zhiping; Zhang, Ling; Chi, Qiang; Yang, Yanfang; Zhang, Hui; Yang, Yang; Mei, Xingguo

    2015-01-01

    A novel accelerated method of good correlations with "real-time" release to evaluate in vitro thymopentin release from poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microsphere was developed. Thymopentin-loaded microspheres were made from three types of PLGA, and peptide release was studied in various conditions. Incomplete release of peptide (<60%) from microspheres was found in accelerated testing with two typical release media. This problem was circumvented by adding organic solvents to the release media and varying the temperature in the media heating process. Release media containing three kinds of organic solvents at 50 °C were tested, respectively, and hydro-alcoholic solution was selected for further study. After the surfactant concentration (0.06%, W/V) and ethanol concentration (20%, V/V) were fixed, a gradient heating program, consisting of three stages and each stage with a different temperature, was introduced to enhance the correlations between the short- and long-term release. After adjusting the heating time of each stage, a good correlation (R(2) = 9896, formulation 8 K; R(2) = 0.9898, formulation 13 K; R(2) = 0.9886, formulation 28 K) between accelerated and "real-time" release was obtained. By optimizing the conditions as ethanol concentration and temperature gradients, this accelerated method may be appropriate for similar peptide formulations that not well correlate with "real-time" release.

  2. Subcritical CO2 Sintering of Microspheres of Different Polymeric Materials to Fabricate Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering

    PubMed Central

    Bhamidipati, Manjari; Sridharan, BanuPriya; Scurto, Aaron M; Detamore, Michael S.

    2013-01-01

    The aim of this study was to use CO2 at sub-critical pressures as a tool to sinter 3D, macroporous, microsphere-based scaffolds for bone and cartilage Tissue Engineering Porous scaffolds composed of ~200 µm microspheres of either poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) or polycaprolactone (PCL) were prepared using dense phase CO2 sintering, which were seeded with rat bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (rBMSCs), and exposed to either osteogenic (PLGA, PCL) or chondrogenic (PLGA) conditions for 6 weeks. Under osteogenic conditions, the PLGA constructs produced over an order of magnitude more calcium than the PCL constructs, whereas the PCL constructs had far superior mechanical and structural integrity (125 times stiffer than PLGA constructs) at week 6, along with twice the cell content of the PLGA constructs. Chondrogenic cell performance was limited in PLGA constructs, perhaps as a result of the polymer degradation rate being too high. The current study represents the first long-term culture of CO2-sintered microsphere-based scaffolds, and has established important thermodynamic differences in sintering between the selected formulations of PLGA and PCL, with the former requiring adjustment of pressure only, and the latter requiring the adjustment of both pressure and temperature. Based on more straightforward sintering conditions and more favorable cell performance, PLGA may be the material of choice for microspheres in a CO2 sintering application, although a different PLGA formulation with the encapsulation of growth factors, extracellular matrix-derived nanoparticles, and/or buffers in the microspheres may be advantageous for achieving a more superior cell performance than observed here. PMID:24094202

  3. Poly(d,l)-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) microspheres as immunoadjuvant for Brugia malayi antigens.

    PubMed

    Saini, Vinay; Verma, Shiv Kumar; Murthy, P Kalpana; Kohli, Dharmveer

    2013-08-28

    Recently we identified in Brugia malayi adult worm extract (BmA) a pro-inflammatory 54-68kDa SDS-PAGE resolved fraction F6 that protects the host from the parasite via Th1/Th2 type responses. We are currently investigating F6 as a potential source of vaccine candidate(s) and the present study is aimed at investigating the suitability of poly(d,l)-lactide-co-glycolide microspheres (PLGA-Ms) as immunoadjuvant for the antigen administration in a single dose. PLGA-Ms were prepared aseptically by a modified double emulsion (w/o/w) solvent evaporation technique and their size, shape, antigen adsorption efficiency, in-process stability, and antigen release were characterized. Swiss mice were immunized by a single subcutaneous administration of BmA and F6 adsorbed on PLGA-Ms (lactide:glycolide ratios 50:50 and 75:25) and the immune responses were compared with administration of 1 or 2 doses of plain BmA and F6. Specific IgG, IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b, IgE levels in serum, cellular-proliferative response and release of IFN-γ, TNF-α and nitric oxide from the cells of immunized host in response to the antigens/LPS/Con A challenge and antibody-dependant cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) to parasite life stages were determined. The average size of PLGA-Ms 50:50 was smaller than the size of PLGA-Ms 75:25 and the % antigen adsorption efficiency of PLGA-Ms 50:50 was greater than PLGA-Ms 75:25. Single shot injection of PLGA-Ms 50:50/75:25-BmA/F6 produced better and stronger IgG, IgG1/IgG2a and cell-mediated immune responses than even two injections of plain BmA or F6. Further, PLGA-Ms 50:50-F6 produced stronger responses than PLGA-Ms 50:50-BmA. Anti-PLGA-Ms 50:50-F6 antibodies elicited higher ADCC response to infective larval and microfilarial stages of the parasite than anti-PLGA-Ms 75:25-F6 antibodies. The findings demonstrate that PLGA-Ms 50:50 is an excellent adjuvant for use with F6 in a single administration. This is the first ever report on PLGA as immunoadjuvant for filarial antigens

  4. Retinal ganglion cells survival in a glaucoma model by GDNF/Vit E PLGA microspheres prepared according to a novel microencapsulation procedure.

    PubMed

    Checa-Casalengua, Patricia; Jiang, Caihui; Bravo-Osuna, Irene; Tucker, Budd A; Molina-Martínez, Irene T; Young, Michael J; Herrero-Vanrell, Rocío

    2011-11-30

    The present experimental work describes the use of a novel protein encapsulation method to achieve protection of the biological factor during the microencapsulation procedure. With this aim, the protein is included in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres without any preliminary manipulation, in contrast to the traditional S/O/W (solid-in-oil-in-water) method where the bioactive substance is first dissolved and then freeze-dried in the presence of lyoprotectors. Furthermore, the presented technique involves the use of an oily additive, vitamin E (Vit E), useful from a technological point of view, by promoting additional protein protection and also from a pharmacological point of view, because of its antioxidant and antiproliferative properties. Application of this microencapsulation technique has been performed for GDNF (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor) designed for the treatment of optic nerve degenerative diseases, such as glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness in the western world. The protein was released in vitro in its bioactive form for more than three months, demonstrated by the survival of their potential target cells (photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells (RGC)). Moreover, the intravitreal injection of GDNF/Vit E PLGA microspheres in an experimental animal model of glaucoma significantly increased RGC survival compared with GDNF, Vit E or blank microspheres (p<0.01). This effect was present for at least eleven weeks, which suggests that the formulation prepared may be clinically useful as a neuroprotective tool in the treatment of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA)/TiO2 nanotube bioactive composite as a novel scaffold for bone tissue engineering: In vitro and in vivo studies.

    PubMed

    Eslami, Hossein; Azimi Lisar, Hamidreza; Jafarzadeh Kashi, Tahereh Sadat; Tahriri, Mohammadreza; Ansari, Mojtaba; Rafiei, Tohid; Bastami, Farshid; Shahin-Shamsabadi, Alireza; Mashhadi Abbas, Fatemeh; Tayebi, Lobat

    2018-05-01

    The aim of this study was to synthesize and characterize novel three-dimensional porous scaffolds made of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)/TiO 2 nanotube (TNT) composite microspheres for bone tissue engineering applications. The incorporation of TNT greatly increases mechanical properties of PLGA/TNT microsphere-sintered scaffold. The experimental results exhibit that the PLGA/0.5 wt% TNT scaffold sintered at 100 °C for 3 h showed the best mechanical properties and a proper pore structure for tissue engineering. Biodegradation test ascertained that the weight of both PLGA and PLGA/PLGA/0.5 wt% TiO 2 nanotube composites slightly reduced during the first 4 weeks following immersion in SBF solution. Moreover, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP activity) results represent increased cell viability for PLGA/0.5%TNT composite scaffold in comparison to the control group. In vivo studies show the amount of bone formation for PLGA/TNT was approximately twice of pure PLGA. Vivid histologic images of the newly generated bone on the implants further supported our test results. Eventually, a mathematical model showed that both PLGA and PLGA/TNT scaffolds' mechanical properties follow an exponential trend with time as their degradation occurs. By a three-dimensional finite element model, a more monotonous distribution of stress was present in the scaffold due to the presence of TNT with a reduction in maximum stress on bone. Copyright © 2018 International Alliance for Biological Standardization. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. In Vitro-In Vivo Relationship of Amorphous Insoluble API (Progesterone) in PLGA Microspheres.

    PubMed

    Pu, Chenguang; Wang, Qiao; Zhang, Hongjuan; Gou, Jingxin; Guo, Yuting; Tan, Xinyi; Xie, Bin; Yin, Na; He, Haibing; Zhang, Yu; Wang, Yanjiao; Yin, Tian; Tang, Xing

    2017-12-01

    The mechanism of PRG release from PLGA microspheres was studied and the correlation of in vitro and in vivo analyses was assessed. PRG-loaded microspheres were prepared by the emulsion-evaporate method. The physical state of PRG and microstructure changings during the drug release period were evaluated by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) respectively. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed in male Sprague-Dawley rats, and the in vivo-in vitro correlation (IVIVC) was established by linear fitting of the cumulative release (%) in vitro and fraction of absorption (%) in vivo. PXRD results indicated recrystallization of PRG during release. The changes of microstructure of PRG-loaded microspheres during the release period could be observed in SEM micrographs. Pharmacokinetics results performed low burst-release followed a steady-released manner. The IVIVC assessment exhibited a good correlation between vitro and in vivo. The burst release phase was caused by diffusion of amorphous PRG near the surface, while the second release stage was impacted by PRG-dissolution from crystal depots formed in microspheres. The IVIVC assessment suggests that the in vitro test method used in this study could predict the real situation in vivo and is helpful to study the release mechanism in vivo.

  7. A novel strategy for the preparation of porous microspheres and its application in peptide drug loading.

    PubMed

    Wei, Yi; Wang, Yuxia; Zhang, Huixia; Zhou, Weiqing; Ma, Guanghui

    2016-09-15

    A new strategy is developed to prepare porous microspheres with narrow size distribution for peptides controlled release, involving a fabrication of porous microspheres without any porogens followed by a pore closing process. Amphiphilic polymers with different hydrophobic segments (poly(monomethoxypolyethylene glycol-co-d,l-lactide) (mPEG-PLA), poly(monomethoxypolyethylene glycol-co-d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (mPEG-PLGA)) are employed as microspheres matrix to prepare porous microspheres based on a double emulsion-premix membrane emulsification technique combined with a solvent evaporation method. Both microspheres possess narrow size distribution and porous surface, which are mainly caused by (a) hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) segments absorbing water molecules followed by a water evaporation process and (b) local explosion of microspheres due to fast evaporation of dichloromethane (MC). Importantly, mPEG-PLGA microspheres have a honeycomb like structure while mPEG-PLA microspheres have a solid structure internally, illustrating that the different hydrophobic segments could modulate the affinity between solvent and matrix polymer and influence the phase separation rate of microspheres matrix. Long term release patterns are demonstrated with pore-closed microspheres, which are prepared from mPEG-PLGA microspheres loading salmon calcitonin (SCT). These results suggest that it is potential to construct porous microspheres for drug sustained release using permanent geometric templates as new porogens. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. New hydrazonoindolin-2-ones: Synthesis, exploration of the possible anti-proliferative mechanism of action and encapsulation into PLGA microspheres.

    PubMed

    Attia, Mohamed I; Eldehna, Wagdy M; Afifi, Samar A; Keeton, Adam B; Piazza, Gary A; Abdel-Aziz, Hatem A

    2017-01-01

    The synthesis and molecular characterization of new isatin-based hydrazonoindolin-2-ones 4a-o and 7a-e are reported. The in vitro anti-proliferative potential of the synthesized compounds 4a-o and 7a-e was examined against HT-29 (colon), ZR-75 (breast) and A549 (lung) human cancer cell lines. Compounds 7b, 7d and 7e were the most active congeners against the tested human cancer cell lines with average IC50 values of 4.77, 3.39 and 2.37 μM, respectively, as compared with the reference isatin-based drug, sunitinib, which exhibited an average IC50 value of 8.11 μM. Compound 7e was selected for further pharmacological evaluation in order to gain insight into its possible mechanism of action. It increased caspase 3/7 activity by 2.4- and 1.85-fold between 4 and 8 h of treatment, respectively, at 10 μM and it caused a decrease in the percentage of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle with a corresponding increase in the S-phase. In addition, compound 7e increased phosphorylated tyrosine (p-Tyr) levels nearly two-fold with an apparent IC50 value of 3.8 μM. The 7e-loaded PLGA microspheres were prepared using a modified emulsion-solvent diffusion method. The average encapsulation efficiency of the 7e-loaded PLGA microspheres was 85% ± 1.3. While, the in vitro release profile of the 7e-loaded microspheres was characterized by slow and continuous release of compound 7e during 21 days and the release curve was fitted to zero order kinetics. Incorporation of 7e into PLGA microspheres improved its in vitro anti-proliferative activity toward the human cancer cell line A549 after 120 h incubation period with an IC50 value less than 0.8 μM.

  9. Acceleration of hard and soft tissue healing in the oral cavity by a single transmucosal injection of fluvastatin-impregnated poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres. An in vitro and rodent in vivo study.

    PubMed

    Yasunami, Noriyuki; Ayukawa, Yasunori; Furuhashi, Akihiro; Atsuta, Ikiru; Rakhmatia, Yunia Dwi; Moriyama, Yasuko; Masuzaki, Tomohiro; Koyano, Kiyoshi

    2015-12-23

    Antihyperlipidemic drug statins reportedly promote both bone formation and soft tissue healing. We examined the effect of sustained-release, fluvastatin-impregnated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres on the promotion of bone and gingival healing at an extraction socket in vivo, and the effect of fluvastatin on epithelial cells and fibroblasts in vitro. The maxillary right first molar was extracted in rats, then one of the following was immediately injected, as a single dose, into the gingivobuccal fold: control (no administration), PLGA microspheres without a statin (active control), or PLGA microspheres containing 20 or 40 μg kg(-1) of fluvastatin. At days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 after injection, bone and soft tissue healing were histologically evaluated. Cell proliferation was measured under the effect of fluvastatin at dosages of 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0, 10, and 50 μM. Cell migration and morphology were observed at dosages of 0 and 0.1 μM. Following tooth extraction, the statin significantly enhanced bone volume and density, connective tissue volume, and epithelial wound healing. In the in vitro study, it promoted significant proliferation and migration of epithelial cells and fibroblasts. A single dose of topically administered fluvastatin-impregnated PLGA microspheres promoted bone and soft tissue healing at the extraction site.

  10. Engineering vascularized soft tissue flaps in an animal model using human adipose–derived stem cells and VEGF+PLGA/PEG microspheres on a collagen-chitosan scaffold with a flow-through vascular pedicle

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Qixu; Hubenak, Justin; Iyyanki, Tejaswi; Alred, Erik; Turza, Kristin C.; Davis, Greg; Chang, Edward I.; Branch-Brooks, Cynthia D.; Beahm, Elisabeth K.; Butler, Charles E.

    2015-01-01

    Insufficient neovascularization is associated with high levels of resorption and necrosis in autologous and engineered fat grafts. We tested the hypothesis that incorporating angiogenic growth factor into a scaffold–stem cell construct and implanting this construct around a vascular pedicle improves neovascularization and adipogenesis for engineering soft tissue flaps. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic-acid/polyethylene glycol (PLGA/PEG) microspheres containing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were impregnated into collagen-chitosan scaffolds seeded with human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs). This setup was analyzed in vitro and then implanted into isolated chambers around a discrete vascular pedicle in nude rats. Engineered tissue samples within the chambers were harvested and analyzed for differences in vascularization and adipose tissue growth. In vitro testing showed that the collagen-chitosan scaffold provided a supportive environment for hASC integration and proliferation. PLGA/PEG microspheres with slow-release VEGF had no negative effect on cell survival in collagen-chitosan scaffolds. In vivo, the system resulted in a statistically significant increase in neovascularization that in turn led to a significant increase in adipose tissue persistence after 8 weeks versus control constructs. These data indicate that our model—hASCs integrated with a collagen-chitosan scaffold incorporated with VEGF-containing PLGA/PEG microspheres supported by a predominant vascular vessel inside a chamber—provides a promising, clinically translatable platform for engineering vascularized soft tissue flap. The engineered adipose tissue with a vascular pedicle could conceivably be transferred as a vascularized soft tissue pedicle flap or free flap to a recipient site for the repair of soft-tissue defects. PMID:26410787

  11. Preparation, characterization, and in vitro testing of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) and dextran magnetic microspheres for in vivo applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Leamy, Patrick J.

    Many research groups are investigating degradable magnetic particles for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents and as carriers for magnetic drug guidance. These particles are composite materials with a degradable polymer matrix and iron oxide nanoparticles for magnetic properties. The degradable polymer matrix acts to provide colloidal stability and, for drug delivery applications, provides a reservoir for the storage and release of drugs. Natural polymers, like albumin and dextran, which degrade by the action of enzymes; have been used for the polymer matrix. Iron oxide nanoparticles are used for magnetic properties since they can be digested in vivo and have low toxicities. Polylactic acid (PLA) and its copolymers with polyglycolic acid (PLGA) are versatile polymers that degrade by simple hydrolysis without the aid of enzymes. Microspheres are easily formed using the solvent extraction/evaporation method and a wide range of drugs can be encapsulated in them. Magnetic PLGA microspheres suitable for applications were synthesized for the first time in this dissertation. This was accomplished by coating iron oxide nanoparticles with oleic acid to make them dispersible in the organic solvents used in the extraction/evaporation microsphere preparation method. In addition to the magnetic PLGA microspheres, a novel all-aqueous method for preparing crosslinked dextran magnetic microspheres was developed in this dissertation. This method uses free radical polymerization for crosslinking and does not require the use of flammable and harmful solvents. For efficient MRI contrast and magnetic drug guidance, maximized iron oxide content of microspheres is desirable. The two different microsphere preparation methods were optimized for iron oxide content. The effect of iron oxide content on microsphere size and morphology was studied. In addition, an in vitro circulation model was used to evaluate the ability of magnetic microspheres to be guided at physiologic blood

  12. Insulin-loaded biodegradable PLGA microcapsules: initial burst release controlled by hydrophilic additives.

    PubMed

    Yamaguchi, Y; Takenaga, M; Kitagawa, A; Ogawa, Y; Mizushima, Y; Igarashi, R

    2002-06-17

    We investigated the controlled release of human insulin at an initial stage from poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA, M(w) 6600) spherical matrices. PLGA microcapsules were prepared by the novel solvent evaporation multiple emulsion process. When the crystalline insulin was dispersed in dichloromethane as solid-in-oil (S/O) dispersion, it was found that most of insulin molecules were inlaid on the surface of PLGA microcapsules. Consequently, insulin-loaded PLGA microcapsules exhibited marked rapid release of insulin within several hours in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. On the other hand, the addition of glycerol or water in the primary dichloromethane dispersion results in drastically suppressed initial release. It was found by SEM observation that water- or glycerol-in-oil (W/O or G/O) type mini-emulsion droplets with a mean diameter of 300-500 nm were formed in this primary solution. This phenomenon can be theoretically presumed to occur because insulin and PLGA molecules, having amphiphilic properties, converge on the interface between the hydrophilic additive and dichloromethane. Hence, insulin molecules heterogeneously located in the inside of PLGA microcapsules, not on the surface, would be gradually released with PLGA hydrolytic decomposition. As an additional effect of glycerol, the initial burst was further suppressed due to the decrease of the glass transition temperature of PLGA from 42.5 to 36.7 degrees C. Since the annealing of PLGA molecules took place at around 37 degrees C, the porous structure of microspheres immediately disappeared after immersion in PBS or subcutaneous administration. The insulin diffusion through the water-filled pores would be effectively prevented. The strict controlled initial release of insulin from the PLGA microsphere suggested the possibility of utilization in insulin therapy for type I diabetic patients who need construction of a basal insulin profile.

  13. Engineering vascularized soft tissue flaps in an animal model using human adipose-derived stem cells and VEGF+PLGA/PEG microspheres on a collagen-chitosan scaffold with a flow-through vascular pedicle.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Qixu; Hubenak, Justin; Iyyanki, Tejaswi; Alred, Erik; Turza, Kristin C; Davis, Greg; Chang, Edward I; Branch-Brooks, Cynthia D; Beahm, Elisabeth K; Butler, Charles E

    2015-12-01

    Insufficient neovascularization is associated with high levels of resorption and necrosis in autologous and engineered fat grafts. We tested the hypothesis that incorporating angiogenic growth factor into a scaffold-stem cell construct and implanting this construct around a vascular pedicle improves neovascularization and adipogenesis for engineering soft tissue flaps. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic-acid/polyethylene glycol (PLGA/PEG) microspheres containing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were impregnated into collagen-chitosan scaffolds seeded with human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs). This setup was analyzed in vitro and then implanted into isolated chambers around a discrete vascular pedicle in nude rats. Engineered tissue samples within the chambers were harvested and analyzed for differences in vascularization and adipose tissue growth. In vitro testing showed that the collagen-chitosan scaffold provided a supportive environment for hASC integration and proliferation. PLGA/PEG microspheres with slow-release VEGF had no negative effect on cell survival in collagen-chitosan scaffolds. In vivo, the system resulted in a statistically significant increase in neovascularization that in turn led to a significant increase in adipose tissue persistence after 8 weeks versus control constructs. These data indicate that our model-hASCs integrated with a collagen-chitosan scaffold incorporated with VEGF-containing PLGA/PEG microspheres supported by a predominant vascular vessel inside a chamber-provides a promising, clinically translatable platform for engineering vascularized soft tissue flap. The engineered adipose tissue with a vascular pedicle could conceivably be transferred as a vascularized soft tissue pedicle flap or free flap to a recipient site for the repair of soft-tissue defects. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Preparation and Analysis of Co-precipitated, Biodegradable Poly-(Lactide-co-Glycolide) and Polyethylene Glycol Microspheres Prepared by Spray Drying

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Javiya, Curie

    Biodegradable poly-(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) based microspheres are commonly used for numerous clinical applications. PEG is a widely used polymer due to its hydrophilic, biocompatible, and nontoxic nature. In this study, different blends of PLGA/PEG microspheres were prepared using a spray drying technique. The microspheres were spherical with maximum yield found to be 60.3% and average particle size in the range of 2.4 to 3.1 microm. Under the spray drying processing conditions, the polymers showed full miscibility slightly below 15% w/w and partial miscibility up to 20% w/w of PEG in the blended microspheres. At higher temperatures, PLGA and PEG were miscible in all proportions used for the blended microspheres. Blending 10% w/w PEG in PLGA membranes showed significant reduction in attachment of macrophages compared to PLGA membranes. The in-vitro response of macrophage towards the miscible blends of PLGA/PEG microspheres was further characterized. Results showed some reduction in macrophage viability and activation, however, significant effects with PLGA/PEG microspheres were not observed.

  15. Development of near zero-order release PLGA-based microspheres of a novel antipsychotic.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Jinlong; Wang, Lexi; Fan, Chunyu; Yu, Kongtong; Liu, Ximing; Zhao, Xiaolei; Wang, Dan; Liu, Wenhua; Su, Zhengxing; Sun, Fengying; Li, Youxin

    2017-01-10

    The novel antipsychotic isoperidone, a prodrug of paliperidone, was designed to improve liposolubility for the development of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)-based microspheres to achieve near zero-order release behaviour in vivo. Microspheres with a smooth surface were obtained using the oil-in-water emulsion solvent evaporation method and yielded a high encapsulation efficiency of 92%. Pharmacokinetic studies in beagle dogs showed a one-week plateau phase followed by a two-week quasi-zero-order release with no burst release. The in vitro release method with a good in vitro-in vivo correlation was also established. Pharmacodynamic evaluation was performed using the MK-801-induced schizophrenic behavioural mouse model, and the sustained suppressive effect lasted two weeks. The pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) relationship of isoperidone microspheres was compared to that of oral administration of free drug. The results revealed a strong correlation between the plasma drug level and the antipsychotic effect. A stable drug plasma concentration was detected in mice both intraday and interday from 8 to 22 d after a single injection of isoperidone microspheres, and a sustained suppressive effect on the schizophrenic model was also observed. In comparison, the mouse group receiving oral daily administration exhibited more dose-dependent effects, and the pharmacological effect diminished rapidly in conjunction with a reduction of the plasma drug levels 8h after the last administration of isoperidone on day 3. The above results confirm the superiority of long-acting release over oral administration and indicate a valuable alternative for the clinical treatment of schizophrenia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Effective cell trapping using PDMS microspheres in an acoustofluidic chip.

    PubMed

    Yin, Di; Xu, Gangwei; Wang, Mengyuan; Shen, Mingwu; Xu, Tiegang; Zhu, Xiaoyue; Shi, Xiangyang

    2017-09-01

    We present a facile particle-based cell manipulation method using acoustic radiation forces. In this work, we selected several representative particles including poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres, silica-coated magnetic microbeads, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microspheres and investigated the responses of these particle systems to ultrasonic standing waves (USWs) in a microfluidic chip. We show that depending on the nature (positive or negative acoustic contrast factors) of the particles, these particle systems display different alignment behaviors along the microfluidic channel under USWs. Specifically, PLGA microspheres and silica-coated magnetic microbeads are able to be aligned in the middle of the microfluidic channel, while PDMS microspheres are translocated to the side walls of the channel, which is beneficial for cell trapping and manipulation. Further results demonstrate that the functional PDMS microspheres with a negative acoustic contrast factor can be used to trap cells to the pressure antinodes in the acoustofluidic chip. Cell viability tests reveal that the ultrasonic manipulation does not exert any harmful effect to the cells. This acoustic-based particle and cell manipulation technique may hold a great promise for the development of rapid, noninvasive, continuous assays for detecting of cells and separation of biological samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Development of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone (rhGH) sustained-release microspheres by a low temperature aqueous phase/aqueous phase emulsion method.

    PubMed

    Kang, Jian; Wu, Fei; Cai, Yunpeng; Xu, Mingxin; He, Mu; Yuan, Weien

    2014-10-01

    A novel method has been developed to protect Recombinant Human Growth Hormone (rhGH) in poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres using an aqueous phase/aqueous phase emulsion and S/O/W multi-emulsion method. This method develops a novel rhGH sustained-release system, which is based on the combination of rhGH-loaded dextran microparticles and PLGA microspheres. The process to fabricate rhGH-loaded dextran microparticles involves an aqueous phase/aqueous phase emulsion system formed at the reduced temperature. RhGH was first dissolved in water together with dextran and polyethylene glycol, followed by stirring at the speed of 2000 rpm for 20-30s at 0°C, and then a freezing process could enable the dextran phase to separate from the continuous PEG phase and rhGH could preferentially be loaded with dextran. The sample after freezing and phase separation was then lyophilized to powder and washed with dichloromethane to remove the PEG. Once loaded in the dextran microparticles (1-4 μm in diameter), rhGH gained resistance to interface tensions and was encapsulated into PLGA microspheres without aggregation thereafter. RhGH released from PLGA microspheres was in a sustained manner with minimal burst and maximally reduced incomplete release in vitro. Single subcutaneous injection of rhGH-loaded PLGA microspheres to rats resulted in a stable plasma concentration for 30 days avoiding the drug concentration fluctuations after multiple injections of protein solutions. In a hypophysectomized rat model, the IGF-1 and bodyweight results showed that there were higher than the levels obtained for the sustained release formulation by W/O/W for 40 days. These results suggest that the microsphere delivery system had the potential to be an injectable depot for sustained-release of the biocompatible protein of rhGH. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Healing kinetics of microneedle-formed pores in PLGA films.

    PubMed

    Mazzara, J M; Balagna, M A; Thouless, M D; Schwendeman, S P

    2013-10-28

    The spontaneous healing of aqueous pores in poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) drug delivery systems has been identified to play a key role in terminating the burst release of large molecules, and to provide a means for novel aqueous-based microencapsulation. To examine healing of PLGA, pores were created of defined size and depth on the surface of thin PLGA films by stamping with blunt-tip microneedles. Pore dimensions on the micron-scale were relevant to surface pores of common PLGA microspheres and could be easily monitored by light microscopy. Most pores healed reproducibly at temperatures above the glass-transition temperature (T(g)) of the films, with healing times decreasing sharply with increasing temperature according to Williams-Landel-Ferry (WLF) behavior. It is suggested that healing is driven by high surface tension in the films and occurs through viscoelastic creep. Hydrated films healed at lower temperatures than dry films, consistent with a drop in Tg upon polymer hydration. Larger pores took longer to heal than smaller ones, while pores larger than 20 μm did not heal before significant polymer degradation occurred. Films of a less hydrophobic PLGA showed slower healing kinetics, attributed to a weaker surface tension driving force. Deeper pores showed signs of in-plane stress from spin-coating, and either ruptured or only partially healed when incubated wet and dry, respectively. © 2013.

  19. Microsphere-Based Scaffolds Encapsulating Tricalcium Phosphate And Hydroxyapatite For Bone Regeneration

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Vineet; Lyne, Dina V.; Barragan, Marilyn; Berkland, Cory J.; Detamore, Michael S.

    2016-01-01

    Bioceramic mixtures of tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HAp) are widely used for bone regeneration because of their excellent cytocompatibility, osteoconduction, and osteoinduction. Therefore, we hypothesized that incorporation of a mixture of TCP and HAp in microsphere-based scaffolds would enhance osteogenesis of rat bone marrow stromal cells (rBMSCs) compared to a positive control of scaffolds with encapsulated bone-morphogenic protein-2 (BMP-2). Poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microsphere-based scaffolds encapsulating TCP and HAp mixtures in two different ratios (7:3 and 1:1) were fabricated with the same net ceramic content (30 wt%) to evaluate how incorporation of these ceramic mixtures would affect the osteogenesis in rBMSCs. Encapsulation of TCP/HAp mixtures impacted microsphere morphologies and the compressive moduli of the scaffolds. Additionally, TCP/HAp mixtures enhanced the end-point secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) components relevant to bone tissue compared to the “blank” (PLGA-only) microsphere-based scaffolds as evidenced by the biochemical, gene expression, histology, and immunohistochemical characterization. Moreover, the TCP/HAp mixture groups even surpassed the BMP-2 positive control group in some instances in terms of matrix synthesis and gene expression. Lastly, gene expression data suggested that the rBMSCs responded differently to different TCP/HAp ratios presented to them. Altogether, it can be concluded that TCP/HAp mixtures stimulated the differentiation of rBMSCs toward an osteoblastic phenotype, and therefore may be beneficial in gradient microsphere-based scaffolds for osteochondral regeneration. PMID:27272903

  20. Computational Intelligence Modeling of the Macromolecules Release from PLGA Microspheres—Focus on Feature Selection

    PubMed Central

    Zawbaa, Hossam M.; Szlȩk, Jakub; Grosan, Crina; Jachowicz, Renata; Mendyk, Aleksander

    2016-01-01

    Poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) is a copolymer of lactic and glycolic acid. Drug release from PLGA microspheres depends not only on polymer properties but also on drug type, particle size, morphology of microspheres, release conditions, etc. Selecting a subset of relevant properties for PLGA is a challenging machine learning task as there are over three hundred features to consider. In this work, we formulate the selection of critical attributes for PLGA as a multiobjective optimization problem with the aim of minimizing the error of predicting the dissolution profile while reducing the number of attributes selected. Four bio-inspired optimization algorithms: antlion optimization, binary version of antlion optimization, grey wolf optimization, and social spider optimization are used to select the optimal feature set for predicting the dissolution profile of PLGA. Besides these, LASSO algorithm is also used for comparisons. Selection of crucial variables is performed under the assumption that both predictability and model simplicity are of equal importance to the final result. During the feature selection process, a set of input variables is employed to find minimum generalization error across different predictive models and their settings/architectures. The methodology is evaluated using predictive modeling for which various tools are chosen, such as Cubist, random forests, artificial neural networks (monotonic MLP, deep learning MLP), multivariate adaptive regression splines, classification and regression tree, and hybrid systems of fuzzy logic and evolutionary computations (fugeR). The experimental results are compared with the results reported by Szlȩk. We obtain a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) of 15.97% versus 15.4%, and the number of selected input features is smaller, nine versus eleven. PMID:27315205

  1. Application of Raman microscopy to biodegradable double-walled microspheres.

    PubMed

    Widjaja, Effendi; Lee, Wei Li; Loo, Say Chye Joachim

    2010-02-15

    Raman mapping measurements were performed on the cross section of the ternary-phase biodegradable double-walled microsphere (DWMS) of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (50:50) (PLGA), poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL), which was fabricated by a one-step solvent evaporation method. The collected Raman spectra were subjected to a band-target entropy minimization (BTEM) algorithm in order to reconstruct the pure component spectra of the species observed in this sample. Seven pure component spectral estimates were recovered, and their spatial distributions within DWMS were determined. The first three spectral estimates were identified as PLLA, PLGA 50:50, and PCL, which were the main components in DWMS. The last four spectral estimates were identified as semicrystalline polyglycolic acid (PGA), dichloromethane (DCM), copper-phthalocyanine blue, and calcite, which were the minor components in DWMS. PGA was the decomposition product of PLGA. DCM was the solvent used in DWMS fabrication. Copper-phthalocyanine blue and calcite were the unexpected contaminants. The current result showed that combined Raman microscopy and BTEM analysis can provide a sensitive characterization tool to DWMS, as it can give more specific information on the chemical species present as well as the spatial distributions. This novel analytical method for microsphere characterization can serve as a complementary tool to other more established analytical techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy.

  2. Enhancement of VEGF-Mediated Angiogenesis by 2-N,6-O-Sulfated Chitosan-Coated Hierarchical PLGA Scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Yu, Yuanman; Chen, Jie; Chen, Rui; Cao, Lingyan; Tang, Wei; Lin, Dan; Wang, Jing; Liu, Changsheng

    2015-05-13

    Rapid and controlled vascularization within scaffolds remains one of the key limitations in tissue engineering applications. This study describes the fabrication and characterization of 2-N,6-O-sulfated chitosan (26SCS)-coated hierarchical scaffold composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres, as a desirable vehicle for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) delivery and consequent angiogenic boosting in vitro. Owing to the hierarchical porous structure and high affinity between VEGF and 26SCS, the 26SCS-modified PLGA (S-PLGA) scaffold possesses excellent entrapment and sustained release of VEGF. Using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) as a cell model, the VEGF-loaded S-PLGA scaffold shows desirable cell viability and attachment. The bioactivity of released VEGF is validated by intracellular nitric oxide secretion and capillary tube formation, demonstrating the improved capacity of VEGF-mediated pro-angiogenesis ascribed to 26SCS incorporation. Such a strategy will afford an effective method to prepare a scaffold with promoted angiogenesis.

  3. Tetraiodothyroacetic acid-conjugated PLGA nanoparticles: a nanomedicine approach to treat drug-resistant breast cancer

    PubMed Central

    Bharali, Dhruba J; Yalcin, Murat; Davis, Paul J; Mousa, Shaker A

    2013-01-01

    Aim The aim was to evaluate tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac), a thyroid hormone analog of l-thyroxin, conjugated to poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (T-PLGA-NPs) both in vitro and in vivo for the treatment of drug-resistant breast cancer. Materials & methods The uptake of tetrac and T-PLGA-NPs in doxorubicin-resistant MCF7 (MCF7-Dx) cells was evaluated using confocal microscopy. Cell proliferation assays and a chick chorioallantoic membrane model of FGF2-induced angiogenesis were used to evaluate the anticancer effects of T-PLGA-NPs. In vivo efficacy was examined in a MCF7-Dx orthotopic tumor BALBc nude mouse model. Results T-PLGA-NPs were restricted from entering into the cell nucleus, and T-PLGA-NPs inhibited angiogenesis by 100% compared with 60% by free tetrac. T-PLGA-NPs enhanced inhibition of tumor-cell proliferation at a low-dose equivalent of free tetrac. In vivo treatment with either tetrac or T-PLGA-NPs resulted in a three- to five-fold inhibition of tumor weight. Conclusion T-PLGA-NPs have high potential as anticancer agents, with possible applications in the treatment of drug-resistant cancer. PMID:23448245

  4. Synthesization and characterization of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) / calcium phosphate bone cement from crab shells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hanan, M. R. Abdul; Daud, N. M.; Ismail, L. H.; Saidin, S.

    2017-05-01

    An injectable calcium phosphate (CaP) bone cement has been widely used for musculoskeletal and bone disorder due to its biocompatible and osteoconductive properties. In this study, CaP was successfully synthesized from crab shells by a wet chemical route. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres which have been produced through a double emulsion technique were incorporated into the CaP mixture for the purpose of bone cement solidification. The ratio of both compounds, CaP and PLGA, were set at 8:2. The CaP and PLGA/CaP bone cement were analyzed by ATR-FTIR, FESEM-EDX and contact angle analyses. The bone cement was composed of CaP and PLGA where the micro-powders of CaP were agglomerated on the PLGA microspheres. Addition of the PLGA has increased the hydrophilicity of the bone cement which will be beneficial for materials degradation and bone integration.

  5. Physicochemical and mechanical properties of freeze cast hydroxyapatite-gelatin scaffolds with dexamethasone loaded PLGA microspheres for hard tissue engineering applications.

    PubMed

    Ghorbani, Farnaz; Nojehdehian, Hanieh; Zamanian, Ali

    2016-12-01

    Hydroxyapatite (HA)-gelatin scaffolds incorporated with dexamethasone-loaded polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microspheres were synthesized by freeze casting technique. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs demonstrated a unidirectional microstructure and a decrease in the pore size as a function of temperature gradient. Higher amounts of HA resulted in a decrease in the pore size. According to the results, at lower cooling rates, the formation of a lamellar structure decreased the mechanical strength, but at the same time, enhanced the swelling ratio, biodegradation rate and drug release level. On the other hand, higher weight ratios of HA increased the compressive strength, and reduced the swelling ratio, biodegradation rate and drug release level. The results obtained by furrier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and bioactivity analysis illustrated that the interactions of the materials support the apatite formation in the simulated body fluid (SBF) solution. Based on the obtained results, the synthesized composite scaffolds have the necessary mechanical and physicochemical features to support the regeneration of defects and to maintain their stability during the neo-tissue formation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Effect of particle size, polydispersity and polymer degradation on progesterone release from PLGA microparticles: Experimental and mathematical modeling.

    PubMed

    Busatto, Carlos; Pesoa, Juan; Helbling, Ignacio; Luna, Julio; Estenoz, Diana

    2018-01-30

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles containing progesterone were prepared by the solvent extraction/evaporation and microfluidic techniques. Microparticles were characterized by their size distribution, encapsulation efficiency, morphology and thermal properties. The effect of particle size, polydispersity and polymer degradation on the in vitro release of the hormone was studied. A triphasic release profile was observed for larger microparticles, while smaller microspheres showed a biphasic release profile. This behavior is related to the fact that complete drug release was achieved in a few days for smaller microparticles, during which polymer degradation effects are still negligible. A mathematical model was developed that predicts the progesterone release profiles from different-sized PLGA microspheres. The model takes into account both the dissolution and diffusion of the drug in the polymeric matrix as well as the autocatalytic effect of polymer degradation. The model was adjusted and validated with novel experimental data. Simulation results are in very good agreement with experimental results. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. New PLGA-P188-PLGA matrix enhances TGF-β3 release from pharmacologically active microcarriers and promotes chondrogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells.

    PubMed

    Morille, Marie; Van-Thanh, Tran; Garric, Xavier; Cayon, Jérôme; Coudane, Jean; Noël, Danièle; Venier-Julienne, Marie-Claire; Montero-Menei, Claudia N

    2013-08-28

    The use of injectable scaffolding materials for in vivo tissue regeneration has raised great interest in various clinical applications because it allows cell implantation through minimally invasive surgical procedures. In case of cartilage repair, a tissue engineered construct should provide a support for the cell and allow sustained in situ delivery of bioactive factors capable of inducing cell differentiation into chondrocytes. Pharmacologically active microcarriers (PAMs), made of biodegradable poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide acid) (PLGA), are a unique system, which combines these properties in an adaptable and simple microdevice. However, a limitation of such scaffold is low and incomplete protein release that occurs using the hydrophobic PLGA based microspheres. To circumvent this problem, we developed a novel formulation of polymeric PAMs containing a P188 poloxamer, which protects the protein from denaturation and may positively affect chondrogenesis. This poloxamer was added as a free additive for protein complexation and as a component of the scaffold covalently linked to PLGA. This procedure allows getting a more hydrophilic scaffold but also retaining the protective polymer inside the microcarriers during their degradation. The novel PLGA-P188-PLGA PAMs presenting a fibronectin-covered surface allowed enhanced MSC survival and proliferation. When engineered with TGFβ3, they allowed the sustained release of 70% of the incorporated TGF-β3 over time. Importantly, they exerted superior chondrogenic differentiation potential compared to previous FN-PAM-PLGA-TGF-β3, as shown by an increased expression of specific cartilage markers such as cartilage type II, aggrecan and COMP. Therefore, this microdevice represents an efficient easy-to-handle and injectable tool for cartilage repair. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. [An experimental study on a slow-release complex with rifampicin-polylactic-co-glycolic acid-calcium 
phosphate cement].

    PubMed

    Wu, Jianhuang; Ding, Zhou; Lei, Qing; Li, Miao; Liang, Yan; Lu, Tao

    2016-09-28

    To prepare the slow-release complex with rifampicin (RFP)-polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)-calcium phosphate cement (CPC) (RFP-PLGA-CPC complex), and to study its physical and chemical properties and drug release properties in vitro.
 The emulsification-solvent evaporation method was adopted to prepare rifampicin polylactic acid-glycolic acid (RFP-PLGA) slow-release microspheres, which were divided into 3 groups: a calcium phosphate bone cement group (CPC group), a CPC embedded with RFP group (RFP-CPC group), and a PLGA slow-release microspheres carrying RFP and the self-curing CPC group (RFP- PLGA-CPC complex group). The solidification time and porosity of materials were determined. The drug release experiments in vitro were carried out to observe the compressive strength, the change of section morphology before and after drug release. 
 The CPC group showed the shortest solidification time, while the RFP-PLGA-CPC complex group had the longest one. There was statistical difference in the porosity between the CPC group and the RFP-CPC group (P<0.05); Compared to the RFP-PLGA-CPC complex group, the porosity in the CPC group and the RFP-CPC group were significantly changed (both P<0.01). There was significant difference in the compressive strength between the RFP- PLGA-CPC complex group and the CPC group (P<0.01), while there was significant difference in the compressive strength between the RFP-CPC group and the CPC group (3 days: P<0.05; 30 and 60 days: P<0.01). The change of the compressive strength in the CPC was not significant in the whole process of degradation. The sizes of PLGA microspheres were uniform, with the particle size between 100-150 μm. The microspheres were spheres or spheroids, and their surface was smooth without the attached impurities. There was no significant change in the section gap in the CPC group after soaking for 3 to 60 days. The microstructure change in the RFP-CPC group was small, and the cross section was formed by small

  9. PLGA-PEG-PLGA hydrogel for ocular drug delivery of dexamethasone acetate.

    PubMed

    Gao, Yuan; Sun, Yan; Ren, Fuzheng; Gao, Shen

    2010-10-01

    This study aims to investigate the suitability of thermosensitive triblock polymer poly-(DL-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-PLGA as a matrix material for ocular delivery of dexamethasone acetate (DXA). The copolymer was synthesized and evaluated for its thermosensitive and gelation properties. DXA in situ gel-forming solution based on PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymer of 20% (w/w) was prepared and evaluated for ocular pharmacokinetics in rabbit according to the microdialysis method, which was compared to the normal eye drop. The copolymer with 20% (w/w) had a low critical solution temperature of 32 degrees C, which is close to the surface temperature of the eye. The C(max) of DXA in the anterior chamber for the PLGA-PEG-PLGA solution was 125.2 microg/mL, which is sevenfold higher than that of the eye drop, along with greater area under the concentration-time curves (AUC). These results suggest that the PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymer is potential thermosensitive in situ gel-forming material for ocular drug delivery, and it may improve the bioavailability, efficacy of some eye drugs.

  10. Doxycycline delivery from PLGA microspheres prepared by a modified solvent removal method.

    PubMed

    Patel, Roshni S; Cho, Daniel Y; Tian, Cheng; Chang, Amy; Estrellas, Kenneth M; Lavin, Danya; Furtado, Stacia; Mathiowitz, Edith

    2012-01-01

    We report on the development of a modified solvent removal method for the encapsulation of hydrophilic drugs within poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). Using a water/oil/oil double emulsion, hydrophilic doxycycline was encapsulated within PLGA spheres with particle diameters ranging from approximately 600 nm to 19 µm. Encapsulation efficiencies of up to 74% were achieved for theoretical loadings from 1% to 10% (w/w), with biphasic release over 85 days with nearly complete release at the end of this time course. About 1% salt was added to the formulations to examine its effects on doxycycline release; salt modulated release only by increasing the magnitude of initial release without altering kinetics. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated no characteristic differences between doxycycline-loaded and control spheres. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction suggest that there may be a molecular dispersion of the doxycycline within the spheres and the doxycycline may be in an amorphous state, which could explain the slow, prolonged release of the drug.

  11. Comparison of in vitro and in vivo methods to study stability of PLGA microencapsulated tetanus toxoid vaccines.

    PubMed

    Sasiak, A B; Bolgiano, B; Crane, D T; Hockley, D J; Corbel, M J; Sesardic, D

    2000-11-22

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the utility of various in vitro and in vivo methods to assess the stability of experimental vaccines containing tetanus toxoid (TT) within PLGA microspheres. In vitro, the breakdown of the encapsulating polymers into their acid components led to changes in the structure of TT, as determined by the physico-chemical methods, rendering it undetectable by capture ELISA and altering its structural integrity. The changes in TT were directly related to increasing acidity of the vaccine supernate. Purified toxoid (not encapsulated) exposed to low pH (2.5) underwent similar changes but re-neutralisation of buffer containing free toxoid, even after one week at pH 2.5 led to some re-folding of protein as determined by fluorescence spectroscopy and gel filtration chromatography. The microencapsulated vaccines were still able to generate an antibody response in mice even after prolonged pre-incubation at 37 degrees C and the apparent absence of detectable toxoid in the vaccine supernate. Electron microscopy demonstrated differences in the amount of degradation between different formulations of microspheres. Vaccines that had retained their spherical morphology after incubation in vitro for up to 28 days were able to induce protective antibodies response equal to that of freshly prepared vaccines, which indicates that the toxoid within intact microspheres remained immunogenic. Immunochemical and physico-chemical detection methods, performed on antigen released from PLGA vaccines in vitro, are valuable in providing information on product characteristics but may not be able to predict effectiveness and should be used with in vivo methods to evaluate the stability of such formulations.

  12. EFFECTS OF THE GRAM STAIN ON MICROSPHERES FROM THERMAL POLYAMINO ACIDS1

    PubMed Central

    Fox, Sidney W.; Yuyama, Shuhei

    1963-01-01

    Fox, Sidney W. (The Florida State University, Tallahassee) and Shuhei Yuyama. Effects of the Gram stain on microspheres from thermal polyamino acids. J. Bacteriol. 85:279–283. 1963.—Microspheres produced from acid proteinoid accept the Gram stain. The stain is negative, but microspheres produced from mixtures containing a sufficient proportion of lysine proteinoid stain positive. Microspheres produced from mixtures containing the appropriate proportions contain individuals which stain positive and others which stain negative. Images PMID:13959050

  13. Effect of palmitic acid on the characteristics and release profiles of rotigotine-loaded microspheres.

    PubMed

    Wang, Aiping; Liang, Rongcai; Liu, Wanhui; Sha, Chunjie; Li, Youxin; Sun, Kaoxiang

    2016-01-01

    The initial burst release is a major obstacle to the development of microsphere-formulated drug products. To investigate the influence of palmitic acid on the characteristics and release profiles of rotigotine-loaded poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres. Rotigotine-loaded microspheres (RMS) were prepared using the oil-in-water emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The in vitro characteristics of the RMS were evaluated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and a particle size analyzer. The in vitro drug release and in vivo pharmacokinetics of the RMS were investigated. The SEM results showed that the addition of palmitic acid changed the surface morphology of the microspheres from smooth to dimpled and then to non-smooth as the palmitic acid content increased. DSC revealed the existence of molecularly dispersed forms of palmitic acid in the microspheres. The in vitro and in vivo release profiles indicated that the addition of 5% and 8% palmitic acid significantly decreased the burst release of rotigotine from the microspheres, and the late-stage release was delayed as the palmitic acid content increased across the investigated range (5-15%). The addition of palmitic acid to the microspheres significantly affects the release profile of rotigotine from RMS.

  14. Hyaluronic Acid-Modified Cationic Lipid-PLGA Hybrid Nanoparticles as a Nanovaccine Induce Robust Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses.

    PubMed

    Liu, Lanxia; Cao, Fengqiang; Liu, Xiaoxuan; Wang, Hai; Zhang, Chao; Sun, Hongfan; Wang, Chun; Leng, Xigang; Song, Cunxian; Kong, Deling; Ma, Guilei

    2016-05-18

    Here, we investigated the use of hyaluronic acid (HA)-decorated cationic lipid-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) acid (PLGA) hybrid nanoparticles (HA-DOTAP-PLGA NPs) as vaccine delivery vehicles, which were originally developed for the cytosolic delivery of genes. Our results demonstrated that after the NPs uptake by dendritic cells (DCs), some of the antigens that were encapsulated in HA-DOTAP-PLGA NPs escaped to the cytosolic compartment, and whereas some of the antigens remained in the endosomal/lysosomal compartment, where both MHC-I and MHC-II antigen presentation occurred. Moreover, HA-DOTAP-PLGA NPs led to the up-regulation of MHC, costimulatory molecules, and cytokines. In vivo experiments further revealed that more powerful immune responses were induced from mice immunized with HA-DOTAP-PLGA NPs when compared with cationic lipid-PLGA nanoparticles and free ovalbumin (OVA); the responses included antigen-specific CD4(+) and CD8(+) T-cell responses, the production of antigen-specific IgG antibodies and the generation of memory CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells. Overall, these data demonstrate the high potential of HA-DOTAP-PLGA NPs for use as vaccine delivery vehicles to elevate cellular and humoral immune responses.

  15. A short term quality control tool for biodegradable microspheres.

    PubMed

    D'Souza, Susan; Faraj, Jabar A; Dorati, Rossella; DeLuca, Patrick P

    2014-06-01

    Accelerated in vitro release testing methodology has been developed as an indicator of product performance to be used as a discriminatory quality control (QC) technique for the release of clinical and commercial batches of biodegradable microspheres. While product performance of biodegradable microspheres can be verified by in vivo and/or in vitro experiments, such evaluation can be particularly challenging because of slow polymer degradation, resulting in extended study times, labor, and expense. Three batches of Leuprolide poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres having varying morphology (process variants having different particle size and specific surface area) were manufactured by the solvent extraction/evaporation technique. Tests involving in vitro release, polymer degradation and hydration of the microspheres were performed on the three batches at 55°C. In vitro peptide release at 55°C was analyzed using a previously derived modification of the Weibull function termed the modified Weibull equation (MWE). Experimental observations and data analysis confirm excellent reproducibility studies within and between batches of the microsphere formulations demonstrating the predictability of the accelerated experiments at 55°C. The accelerated test method was also successfully able to distinguish the in vitro product performance between the three batches having varying morphology (process variants), indicating that it is a suitable QC tool to discriminate product or process variants in clinical or commercial batches of microspheres. Additionally, data analysis utilized the MWE to further quantify the differences obtained from the accelerated in vitro product performance test between process variants, thereby enhancing the discriminatory power of the accelerated methodology at 55°C.

  16. Efficacy of the biomaterials 3wt%-nanostrontium-hydroxyapatite-enhanced calcium phosphate cement (nanoSr-CPC) and nanoSr-CPC-incorporated simvastatin-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic-acid) microspheres in osteogenesis improvement: An explorative multi-phase experimental in vitro/vivo study.

    PubMed

    Masaeli, Reza; Jafarzadeh Kashi, Tahereh Sadat; Dinarvand, Rassoul; Rakhshan, Vahid; Shahoon, Hossein; Hooshmand, Behzad; Mashhadi Abbas, Fatemeh; Raz, Majid; Rajabnejad, Alireza; Eslami, Hossein; Khoshroo, Kimia; Tahriri, Mohammadreza; Tayebi, Lobat

    2016-12-01

    The purpose of this multi-phase explorative in vivo animal/surgical and in vitro multi-test experimental study was to (1) create a 3wt%-nanostrontium hydroxyapatite-enhanced calcium phosphate cement (Sr-HA/CPC) for increasing bone formation and (2) creating a simvastatin-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (SIM-loaded PLGA) microspheres plus CPC composite (SIM-loaded PLGA+nanostrontium-CPC). The third goal was the extensive assessment of multiple in vitro and in vivo characteristics of the above experimental explorative products in vitro and in vivo (animal and surgical studies). Physical and chemical properties of the prepared Sr-HA/CPC were evaluated. MTT assay and alkaline phosphatase activities, and radiological and histological examinations of Sr-HA/CPC, CPC and negative control were compared. X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicated that crystallinity of the prepared cement increased by increasing the powder-to-liquid ratio. Incorporation of Sr-HA into CPC increased MTT assay (biocompatibility) and ALP activity (P<0.05). Histomorphometry showed greater bone formation after 4weeks, after implantation of Sr-HA/CPC in 10 rats compared to implantations of CPC or empty defects in the same rats (n=30, ANOVA P<0.05). METHODS AND RESULTS PERTAINING TO SIM-LOADED PLGA MICROSPHERES+NANOSTRONTIUM-CPC COMPOSITE: After SEM assessment, the produced composite of microspheres and enhanced CPC were implanted for 8weeks in 10 rabbits, along with positive and negative controls, enhanced CPC, and enhanced CPC plus SIM (n=50). In the control group, only a small amount of bone had been regenerated (localized at the boundary of the defect); whereas, other groups showed new bone formation within and around the materials. A significant difference was found in the osteogenesis induced by the groups sham control (16.96±1.01), bone materials (32.28±4.03), nanostrontium-CPC (24.84±2.6), nanostrontium-CPC-simvastatin (40.12±3.29), and SIM-loaded PLGA+nanostrontium-CPC (44.8±6.45) (ANOVA P

  17. Development of Yersinia pestis F1 antigen-loaded microspheres vaccine against plague

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Shih-shiung; Li, I-Hsun; Hong, Po-da; Yeh, Ming-kung

    2014-01-01

    Yersinia pestis F1 antigen-loaded poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide)/polyethylene glycol (PEG) (PLGA/PEG) microspheres were produced using a water-in-oil-in-water emulsion/solvent extraction technique and assayed for their percent yield, entrapment efficiency, surface morphology, particle size, zeta potential, in vitro release properties, and in vivo animal protect efficacy. The Y. pestis F1 antigen-loaded microspheres (mean particle size 3.8 μm) exhibited a high loading capacity (4.5% w/w), yield (85.2%), and entrapment efficiency (38.1%), and presented a controlled in vitro release profile with a low initial burst (18.5%), then continued to release Y. pestis F1 antigen over 70 days. The distribution (%) of Y. pestis F1 on the microspheres surface, outer layer, and core was 3.1%, 28.9%, and 60.7%, respectively. A steady release rate was noticed to be 0.55 μg Y. pestis F1 antigen/mg microspheres/day of Y. pestis F1 antigen release maintained for 42 days. The cumulative release amount at the 1st, 28th, and 42nd days was 8.2, 26.7, and 31.0 μg Y. pestis F1 antigen/mg microspheres, respectively. The 100 times median lethal dose 50% (LD50) of Y. pestis Yokohama-R strain by intraperitoneal injection challenge in mice test, in which mice received one dose of 40 μg F1 antigen content of PLGA/PEG microspheres, F1 antigen in Al(OH)3, and in comparison with F1 antigen in Al(OH)3 vaccine in two doses, was evaluated after given by subcutaneous immunization of BALB/c mice. The study results show that the greatest survival was observed in the group of mice immunized with one dose of F1 antigen-loaded PLGA/PEG microspheres, and two doses of F1 antigen in Al(OH)3 vaccine (100%). In vivo vaccination studies also demonstrated that F1 vaccines microspheres had a protective ability; its steady-state IgG immune protection in mice plasma dramatic increased from 2 weeks (18,764±3,124) to 7 weeks (126,468±19,176) after vaccination. These findings strongly suggest that F1-antigen loaded

  18. The osteogenic response of mesenchymal stem cells to an injectable PLGA bone regeneration system.

    PubMed

    Curran, Judith M; Fawcett, Sandra; Hamilton, Lloyd; Rhodes, Nicholas P; Rahman, Cheryl V; Alexander, Morgan; Shakesheff, Kevin; Hunt, John A

    2013-12-01

    The enrichment of substrates/surfaces with selected functional groups, methyl (-CH3), allyl amine (-NH2), allyl alcohol (-OH) and acrylic acid (-COOH), can be used to trigger mesenchymal stem (MSC) cell differentiation into specified lineages, minimising the need for exogenous biological supplementation. We present the successful translation of this research phenomenon to an injectable two phase injectable PLGA system, utilising plasma techniques, for the repair of bone defects. Modified microspheres were characterised using water contact angel (WCA), X-ray Photon Spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). When cultured in contact with MSCs in vitro, the ability of the modified particles, within the 2 phase system, to induce differentiation was characterised using quantitative assays for cell viability and histological analysis for key markers of differentiation throughout the entirety of the three dimensional scaffold. Biological analysis proved that selected modified microspheres have the ability to induce MSC osteogenic (-NH2 modified scaffolds) and chondrogenic (-OH modified scaffolds) differentiation throughout the entirety of the formed scaffold. Therefore optimised plasma modification of microspheres is an effective tool for the production of injectable systems for the repair of bone and cartilage defects. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Intravitreal Injection of Proinsulin-Loaded Microspheres Delays Photoreceptor Cell Death and Vision Loss in the rd10 Mouse Model of Retinitis Pigmentosa.

    PubMed

    Isiegas, Carolina; Marinich-Madzarevich, Jorge A; Marchena, Miguel; Ruiz, José M; Cano, María J; de la Villa, Pedro; Hernández-Sánchez, Catalina; de la Rosa, Enrique J; de Pablo, Flora

    2016-07-01

    The induction of proinsulin expression by transgenesis or intramuscular gene therapy has been shown previously to retard retinal degeneration in mouse and rat models of retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a group of inherited conditions that result in visual impairment. We investigated whether intraocular treatment with biodegradable poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid microspheres (PLGA-MS) loaded with proinsulin has cellular and functional neuroprotective effects in the retina. Experiments were performed using the Pde6brd10 mouse model of RP. Methionylated human recombinant proinsulin (hPI) was formulated in PLGA-MS, which were administered by intravitreal injection on postnatal days (P) 14 to 15. Retinal neuroprotection was assessed at P25 by electroretinography, and by evaluating outer nuclear layer (ONL) cellular preservation. The attenuation of photoreceptor cell death by hPI was determined by TUNEL assay in cultured P22 retinas, as well as Akt phosphorylation by immunoblotting. We successfully formulated hPI PLGA-MS to deliver the active molecule for several weeks in vitro. The amplitude of b-cone and mixed b-waves in electroretinographic recording was significantly higher in eyes injected with hPI-PLGA-MS compared to control eyes. Treatment with hPI-PLGA-MS attenuated photoreceptor cell loss, as revealed by comparing ONL thickness and the number of cell rows in this layer in treated versus untreated retinas. Finally, hPI prevented photoreceptor cell death and increased AktThr308 phosphorylation in organotypic cultured retinas. Retinal degeneration in the rd10 mouse was slowed by a single intravitreal injection of hPI-PLGA-MS. Human recombinant proinsulin elicited a rapid and effective neuroprotective effect when administered in biodegradable microspheres, which may constitute a future potentially feasible delivery method for proinsulin-based treatment of RP.

  20. Microsphere erosion in outer hydrogel membranes creating macroscopic porosity to counter biofouling-induced sensor degradation.

    PubMed

    Vaddiraju, S; Wang, Y; Qiang, L; Burgess, D J; Papadimitrakopoulos, F

    2012-10-16

    Biofouling and tissue inflammation present major challenges toward the realization of long-term implantable glucose sensors. Following sensor implantation, proteins and cells adsorb on sensor surfaces to not only inhibit glucose flux but also signal a cascade of inflammatory events that eventually lead to permeability-reducing fibrotic encapsulation. The use of drug-eluting hydrogels as outer sensor coatings has shown considerable promise to mitigate these problems via the localized delivery of tissue response modifiers to suppress inflammation and fibrosis, along with reducing protein and cell absorption. Biodegradable poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microspheres, encapsulated within a poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel matrix, present a model coating where the localized delivery of the potent anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone has been shown to suppress inflammation over a period of 1-3 months. Here, it is shown that the degradation of the PLGA microspheres provides an auxiliary venue to offset the negative effects of protein adsorption. This was realized by: (1) the creation of fresh porosity within the PVA hydrogel following microsphere degradation (which is sustained until the complete microsphere degradation) and (2) rigidification of the PVA hydrogel to prevent its complete collapse onto the newly created void space. Incubation of the coated sensors in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) led to a monotonic increase in glucose permeability (50%), with a corresponding enhancement in sensor sensitivity over a 1 month period. Incubation in serum resulted in biofouling and consequent clogging of the hydrogel microporosity. This, however, was partially offset by the generated macroscopic porosity following microsphere degradation. As a result of this, a 2-fold recovery in sensor sensitivity for devices with microsphere/hydrogel composite coatings was observed as opposed to similar devices with blank hydrogel coatings. These findings suggest that the use of

  1. Novel Simvastatin-Loaded Nanoparticles Based on Cholic Acid-Core Star-Shaped PLGA for Breast Cancer Treatment.

    PubMed

    Wu, Yanping; Wang, Zhongyuan; Liu, Gan; Zeng, Xiaowei; Wang, Xusheng; Gao, Yongfeng; Jiang, Lijuan; Shi, Xiaojun; Tao, Wei; Huang, Laiqiang; Mei, Lin

    2015-07-01

    A novel nanocarrier system of cholic acid (CA) core, star-shaped polymer consisting of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) was developed for sustained and controlled delivery of simvastatin for chemotherapy of breast adenocarcinoma. The star-shaped polymer CA-PLGA with three branch arms was synthesized successfully through the core-first approach. The simvastatin-loaded star-shaped CA-PLGA nanoparticles were prepared through a modified nanoprecipitation method. The data showed that the fluorescence star-shaped CA-PLGA nanoparticles could be internalized into MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 human breast cancer cells. The simvastatin-loaded star-shaped CA-PLGA nanoparticles achieved significantly higher level of cytotoxicity than pristine simvastatin and simvastatin-loaded linear PLGA nanoparticles. Moreover, the expression of the cell cycle protein cyclin D1 was dramatically inhibited by simvastatin in both cells, with simvastatin-loaded star-shaped CA-PLGA nanoparticles having the greatest effect. MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumor model on BALB/c nude mice showed that simvastatin-loaded star-shaped CA-PLGA nanoformulations could effectively inhibit the growth of tumor over a longer period of time than pristine simvastatin and simvastatin-loaded linear PLGA nanoformulations at the same dose. In agreement with these, the nuclear expression of proliferation marker Ki-67 in simvastatin-loaded star-shaped CA-PLGA nanoparticles group was reduced to a most extent among four groups through tumor frozen section immunohistochemistry. In conclusion, the star-shaped CA-PLGA polymers could serve as a novel polymeric nanocarrier for breast cancer chemotherapy.

  2. Hydrogel-PLGA delivery system prolongs 2-methoxyestradiol-mediated anti-tumor effects in osteosarcoma cells.

    PubMed

    Maran, Avudaiappan; Dadsetan, Mahrokh; Buenz, Colleen M; Shogren, Kristen L; Lu, Lichun; Yaszemski, Michael J

    2013-09-01

    Osteosarcoma is a bone tumor that affects children and young adults. 2-Methoxyestradiol (2-ME), a naturally occurring estrogen metabolite, kills osteosarcoma cells, but does not affect normal osteoblasts. In order to effectively target osteosarcoma and improve the therapeutic index of the drug 2-ME, we have encapsulated 2-ME in a composite of oligo-(polyethylene glycol) fumarate (OPF) hydrogel and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres and investigated the effect of polymer composition on 2-ME release kinetics and osteosarcoma cell survival. The in vitro study shows that 2-ME can be released in a controlled manner over 21-days. The initial burst releases observed on day 1 were 50% and 32% for OPF and OPF/PLGA composites, respectively. The extended release kinetics show that 100% of the encapsulated 2-ME is released by day 12 from OPF, whereas the OPF/PLGA composites showed a release of 85% on day 21. 2-ME released from the polymers was biologically active and blocked osteosarcoma cell proliferation in vitro. Also, comparison of 2-ME delivery in osteosarcoma cells in culture, shows that direct treatment has no effect after 3 days, whereas polymer-mediated delivery produces anti-tumor effects that could be sustained for 21 days. These findings show that the OPF and PLGA polymeric system may prove to be useful in controlled and sustained delivery of 2-ME and could be further explored in the treatment of osteosarcoma. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  3. Comparative assessment of in vitro release kinetics of calcitonin polypeptide from biodegradable microspheres.

    PubMed

    Prabhu, Sunil; Sullivan, Jennifer L; Betageri, Guru V

    2002-01-01

    The objective of our study was to compare the in vitro release kinetics of a sustained-release injectable microsphere formulation of the polypeptide drug, calcitonin (CT), to optimize the characteristics of drug release from poly-(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) copolymer biodegradable microspheres. A modified solvent evaporation and double emulsion technique was used to prepare the microspheres. Release kinetic studies were carried out in silanized tubes and dialysis bags, whereby microspheres were suspended and incubated in phosphate buffered saline, sampled at fixed intervals, and analyzed for drug content using a modified Lowry protein assay procedure. An initial burst was observed whereby about 50% of the total dose of the drug was released from the microspheres within 24 hr and 75% within 3 days. This was followed by a period of slow release over a period of 3 weeks in which another 10-15% of drug was released. Drug release from the dialysis bags was more gradual, and 50% CT was released only after 4 days and 75% after 12 days of release. Scanning electron micrographs revealed spherical particles with channel-like structures and a porous surface after being suspended in an aqueous solution for 5 days. Differential scanning calorimetric studies revealed that CT was present as a mix of amorphous and crystalline forms within the microspheres. Overall, these studies demonstrated that sustained release of CT from PLGA microspheres over a 3-week period is feasible and that release of drug from dialysis bags was more predictable than from tubes.

  4. Humidity-dependent compression-induced glass transition of the air-water interfacial Langmuir films of poly(D,L-lactic acid-ran-glycolic acid) (PLGA).

    PubMed

    Kim, Hyun Chang; Lee, Hoyoung; Jung, Hyunjung; Choi, Yun Hwa; Meron, Mati; Lin, Binhua; Bang, Joona; Won, You-Yeon

    2015-07-28

    Constant rate compression isotherms of the air-water interfacial Langmuir films of poly(D,L-lactic acid-ran-glycolic acid) (PLGA) show a distinct feature of an exponential increase in surface pressure in the high surface polymer concentration regime. We have previously demonstrated that this abrupt increase in surface pressure is linked to the glass transition of the polymer film, but the detailed mechanism of this process is not fully understood. In order to obtain a molecular-level understanding of this behavior, we performed extensive characterizations of the surface mechanical, structural and rheological properties of Langmuir PLGA films at the air-water interface, using combined experimental techniques including the Langmuir film balance, X-ray reflectivity and double-wall-ring interfacial rheometry methods. We observed that the mechanical and structural responses of the Langmuir PLGA films are significantly dependent on the rate of film compression; the glass transition was induced in the PLGA film only at fast compression rates. Surprisingly, we found that this deformation rate dependence is also dependent on the humidity of the environment. With water acting as a plasticizer for the PLGA material, the diffusion of water molecules through the PLGA film seems to be the key factor in the determination of the glass transformation properties and thus the mechanical response of the PLGA film against lateral compression. Based on our combined results, we hypothesize the following mechanism for the compression-induced glass transformation of the Langmuir PLGA film; (1) initially, a humidified/non-glassy PLGA film is formed in the full surface-coverage region (where the surface pressure shows a plateau) during compression; (2) further compression leads to the collapse of the PLGA chains and the formation of new surfaces on the air side of the film, and this newly formed top layer of the PLGA film is transiently glassy in character because the water evaporation rate

  5. Porous PLGA microspheres tailored for dual delivery of biomolecules via layer-by-layer assembly.

    PubMed

    Go, Dewi P; Palmer, Jason A; Mitchell, Geraldine M; Gras, Sally L; O'Connor, Andrea J

    2015-05-01

    Tissue engineering is a complex and dynamic process that requires varied biomolecular cues to promote optimal tissue growth. Consequently, the development of delivery systems capable of sequestering more than one biomolecule with controllable release profiles is a key step in the advancement of this field. This study develops multilayered polyelectrolyte films incorporating alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), an anti-inflammatory molecule, and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The layers were successfully formed on macroporous poly lactic-co-glycolic acid microspheres produced using a combined inkjet and thermally induced phase separation technique. Release profiles could be varied by altering layer properties including the number of layers and concentrations of layering molecules. α-MSH and bFGF were released in a sustained manner and the bioactivity of α-MSH was shown to be preserved using an activated macrophage cell assay in vitro. The system performance was also tested in vivo subcutaneously in rats. The multilayered microspheres reduced the inflammatory response induced by a carrageenan stimulus 6 weeks after implantation compared to the non-layered microspheres without the anti-inflammatory and growth factors, demonstrating the potential of such multilayered constructs for the controlled delivery of bioactive molecules. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Acid-Sensitive Sheddable PEGylated PLGA Nanoparticles Increase the Delivery of TNF-α siRNA in Chronic Inflammation Sites

    PubMed Central

    Aldayel, Abdulaziz M; Naguib, Youssef W; O'Mary, Hannah L; Li, Xu; Niu, Mengmeng; Ruwona, Tinashe B; Cui, Zhengrong

    2016-01-01

    There has been growing interest in utilizing small interfering RNA (siRNA) specific to pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α ( TNF-α), in chronic inflammation therapy. However, delivery systems that can increase the distribution of the siRNA in chronic inflammation sites after intravenous administration are needed. Herein we report that innovative functionalization of the surface of siRNA-incorporated poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles significantly increases the delivery of the siRNA in the chronic inflammation sites in a mouse model. The TNF-α siRNA incorporated PLGA nanoparticles were prepared by the standard double emulsion method, but using stearoyl-hydrazone-polyethylene glycol 2000, a unique acid-sensitive surface active agent, as the emulsifying agent, which renders (i) the nanoparticles PEGylated and (ii) the PEGylation sheddable in low pH environment such as that in chronic inflammation sites. In a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic inflammation, the acid-sensitive sheddable PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles showed significantly higher accumulation or distribution in chronic inflammation sites than PLGA nanoparticles prepared with an acid-insensitive emulsifying agent (i.e., stearoyl-amide-polyethylene glycol 2000) and significantly increased the distribution of the TNF-α siRNA incorporated into the nanoparticles in inflamed mouse foot. PMID:27434685

  7. Preparation and properties of BSA-loaded microspheres based on multi-(amino acid) copolymer for protein delivery

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Xingtao; Lv, Guoyu; Zhang, Jue; Tang, Songchao; Yan, Yonggang; Wu, Zhaoying; Su, Jiacan; Wei, Jie

    2014-01-01

    A multi-(amino acid) copolymer (MAC) based on ω-aminocaproic acid, γ-aminobutyric acid, L-alanine, L-lysine, L-glutamate, and hydroxyproline was synthetized, and MAC microspheres encapsulating bovine serum albumin (BSA) were prepared by a double-emulsion solvent extraction method. The experimental results show that various preparation parameters including surfactant ratio of Tween 80 to Span 80, surfactant concentration, benzyl alcohol in the external water phase, and polymer concentration had obvious effects on the particle size, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency of the BSA-loaded microspheres. The sizes of BSA-loaded microspheres ranged from 60.2 μm to 79.7 μm, showing different degrees of porous structure. The encapsulation efficiency of BSA-loaded microspheres also ranged from 38.8% to 50.8%. BSA release from microspheres showed the classic biphasic profile, which was governed by diffusion and polymer erosion. The initial burst release of BSA from microspheres at the first week followed by constant slow release for the next 7 weeks were observed. BSA-loaded microspheres could degrade gradually in phosphate buffered saline buffer with pH value maintained at around 7.1 during 8 weeks incubation, suggesting that microsphere degradation did not cause a dramatic pH drop in phosphate buffered saline buffer because no acidic degradation products were released from the microspheres. Therefore, the MAC microspheres might have great potential as carriers for protein delivery. PMID:24855351

  8. Polyamine/salt-assembled microspheres coated with hyaluronic acid for targeting and pH sensing.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Pan; Yang, Hui; Wang, Guojun; Tong, Weijun; Gao, Changyou

    2016-06-01

    The poly(allylamine hydrochloride)/trisodium citrate aggregates were fabricated and further covalently crosslinked via the coupling reaction of carboxylic sites on trisodium citrate with the amine groups on polyamine, onto which poly-L-lysine and hyaluronic acid were sequentially assembled, forming stable microspheres. The pH sensitive dye and pH insensitive dye were further labeled to enable the microspheres with pH sensing property. Moreover, these microspheres could be specifically targeted to HeLa tumor cells, since hyaluronic acid can specifically recognize and bind to CD44, a receptor overexpressed on many tumor cells. Quantitative pH measurement by confocal laser scanning microscopy demonstrated that the microspheres were internalized into HeLa cells, and accumulated in acidic compartments. By contrast, only a few microspheres were adhered on the NIH 3T3 cells surface. The microspheres with combined pH sensing property and targeting ability can enhance the insight understanding of the targeted drug vehicles trafficking after cellular internalization. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. CO2-assisted high pressure homogenization: a solvent-free process for polymeric microspheres and drug-polymer composites.

    PubMed

    Kluge, Johannes; Mazzotti, Marco

    2012-10-15

    The study explores the enabling role of near-critical CO(2) as a reversible plasticizer in the high pressure homogenization of polymer particles, aiming at their comminution as well as at the formation of drug-polymer composites. First, the effect of near-critical CO(2) on the homogenization of aqueous suspensions of poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) was investigated. Applying a pressure drop of 900 bar and up to 150 passes across the homogenizer, it was found that particles processed in the presence of CO(2) were generally of microspherical morphology and at all times significantly smaller than those obtained in the absence of a plasticizer. The smallest particles, exhibiting a median x(50) of 1.3 μm, were obtained by adding a small quantity of ethyl acetate, which exerts on PLGA an additional plasticizing effect during the homogenization step. Further, the study concerns the possibility of forming drug-polymer composites through simultaneous high pressure homogenization of the two relevant solids, and particularly the effect of near-critical CO(2) on this process. Therefore, PLGA was homogenized together with crystalline S-ketoprofen (S-KET), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, at a drug to polymer ratio of 1:10, a pressure drop of 900 bar and up to 150 passes across the homogenizer. When the process was carried out in the presence of CO(2), an impregnation efficiency of 91% has been reached, corresponding to 8.3 wt.% of S-KET in PLGA; moreover, composite particles were of microspherical morphology and significantly smaller than those obtained in the absence of CO(2). The formation of drug-polymer composites through simultaneous homogenization of the two materials is thus greatly enhanced by the presence of CO(2), which increases the efficiency for both homogenization and impregnation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Self-Assembly of pH-Responsive Microspheres for Intestinal Delivery of Diverse Lipophilic Therapeutics.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Xing; Zhao, Yang; Chen, Siyu; Han, Songling; Xu, Xiaoqiu; Guo, Jiawei; Liu, Mengyu; Che, Ling; Li, Xiaohui; Zhang, Jianxiang

    2016-08-08

    Targeted delivery of therapeutics to the intestine is preferred for the management of many diseases due to its diverse advantages. Currently, there are still challenges in creating cost-effective and translational pH-responsive microspheres for intestinal delivery of various hydrophobic drugs. Herein we report a multiple noncovalent interactions-mediated assembly strategy in which carboxyl-bearing compounds (CBCs) are guest molecules, while poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) serves as a host polymer. Formation of microparticles and therapeutic packaging can be achieved simultaneously by this assembly approach, leading to well-shaped microspheres with extremely higher drug loading capacity as compared to microspheres based on two FDA-approved materials of poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and an enteric coating polymer EudragitS 100 (S100). Also, carboxyl-deficient hydrophobic drugs can be effectively entrapped. These assembled microspheres, with excellent reconstitution capability as well as desirable scalability, could selectively release drug molecules under intestinal conditions. By significantly enhancing drug dissolution/release in the intestine, these pH-responsive assemblies may notably improve the oral bioavailability of loaded therapeutics. Moreover, the assembled microspheres possessed superior therapeutic performance in rodent models of inflammation and tumor over the control microspheres derived from PLGA and S100. Therapy with newly developed microspheres did not cause undesirable side effects. Furthermore, in vivo evaluation in mice revealed the carrier material PNIPAm was safe for oral delivery at doses as high as 10 g/kg. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that this type of pH-responsive microsphere may function as superior and translational intestine-directed delivery systems for a diverse array of therapeutics.

  11. Preparation and in vitro and in vivo evaluation of HupA PLGA microsphere.

    PubMed

    Ye, Liang; Fu, Fenghua; Liu, Wanhui; Sun, Kaoxiang; Li, Youxin; He, Jie; Yu, Xin; Yu, Pengfei; Tian, Jingwei

    2013-03-01

    Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs), including Huperzine A (HupA), have been the mainstay of treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, AChEIs can cause gastrointestinal side effects, which has been related to the high Cmax and short tmax after oral administration. Clinical trials have verified that extended-release formulation with lower Cmax and prolonged tmax, such as rivastigmine patch, could perform a similar efficacy with significantly improved tolerability compared with the oral formulations. In this study, we developed an extended-release microspheres formulation of HupA (called as HAM) with poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) as drug carrier. HAM has showed the loading rate as 1.35% (w/w) and yielded 42% with mean particle size at 72.6 μm. In vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetics studies have showed that HAM produced a relatively smooth and continuous drug concentration in 14 days. Furthermore, in vivo pharmacokinetics data have demonstrated that the Cmax was lower and the tmax was considerably later in single intramuscular administration of HAM (1,000 μg/kg) than the counterparts in single intragastric administration of HAT (75 μg/kg/d). Meanwhile, HAM has performed a continuous inhibition to brain AChE activity in normal rats and improvement of memory deficit in Aβ1-40 i.c.v. infused AD rat model for 14 days. The results have suggested that HAM has performed good extended-release properties and good prolonged pharmacological efficacy in vivo in the 2-week period, and could exert a similar efficacy with significantly lowered gastrointestinal side effects as compared with oral formulation.

  12. Synthesis of PEG-rich PLGA-PEG-PLGA for the PLGA-PEG-PLGA/laponite hydrogels with thermoresponsive sol-gel transitions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tanimoto, Keishi; Maeda, Tomoki; Hotta, Atsushi

    Poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide)-b-poly (ethylene glycol)-b-poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) possesses moderate biocompatibility originating from the relatively shorter PEG block in its polymeric molecule. For the maximum utilization of the highly biocompatible PEG block, the PEG block should be relatively longer, and thus the PEG/PLGA ratio, the molecular weight ratio of PEG and PLGA, should be higher. In addition, for the wider use of PLGA-PEG-PLGA in the biological fields, the aqueous PLGA-PEG-PLGA solution should transfer from sol to gel states in response to the increase in temperature. It was reported, however, through the previous researches, that the PLGA-PEG-PLGA solution with a high PEG/PLGA ratio (above 0.5) would not exhibit thermoresponsive sol-gel transitions. In this work, PLGA-PEG-PLGAs with higher PEG/PLGA ratios were synthesized and the laponite, an inorganic nanoparticle, was added to the solutions to realize the thermoresponsive sol-gel transition. It was found that the PLGA-PEG-PLGA with the high PEG/PLGA ratio of 3.0 could exhibit the thermoresponsive sol-gel transition by adding laponite at 1.25 weight percent. The physical characteristics of the gel were also studied by the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) This work was supported by a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (A) (No. 15H02298 to A.H.) and a Grant-in-Aid for Research Activity Start-up (No.15H06586 to T.M.) from JSPS: KAKENHI\\x9D.

  13. Tailoring magnetic PLGA nanoparticles suitable for doxorubicin delivery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tansık, Gülistan; Yakar, Arzu; Gündüz, Ufuk

    2014-01-01

    One of the main problems of current cancer chemotherapy is the lack of selectivity of anti-cancer drugs to tumor cells, which leads to systemic toxicity and adverse side effects. In order to overcome these limitations, researches on controlled drug delivery systems have gained much attention. Nanoscale-based drug delivery systems provide tumor targeting. Among many types of nanocarriers, superparamagnetic nanoparticles with their biocompatible polymer coatings can be targeted to an intented site by an external magnetic field. Thus, the drug can be carried to the targeted site safely. The aim of this study is to prepare poly( dl-lactic- co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-coated magnetic nanoparticles and load anti-cancer drug, doxorubicin to them. For this purpose, magnetite (Fe3O4) iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized as a magnetic core material (MNP) and then coated with oleic acid. Oleic acid-coated MNP (OA-MNP) was encapsulated into PLGA. Effects of different OA-MNP/PLGA ratios on magnetite entrapment efficiency were investigated. Doxorubicin-loaded magnetic polymeric nanoparticles (DOX-PLGA-MNP) were prepared. After the characterization of prepared nanoparticles, their cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 cell line were studied. PLGA-coated magnetic nanoparticles (PLGA-MNP) had a proper size and superparamagnetic character. The highest magnetite entrapment efficiency of PLGA-MNP was estimated as 63 % at 1:8 ratio. Cytotoxicity studies of PLGA-MNP did not indicate any notable cell death between the concentration ranges of 2 and 125 μg/ml. Drug loading efficiency was estimated as 32 %, and it was observed that DOX-PLGA-MNP showed significant cytotoxicity on MCF-7 cells compared to PLGA-MNP. The results showed that prepared nanoparticles have desired size and superparamagnetic characteristics without serious toxic effects on cells. These nanoparticles may be suitable for targeted drug delivery applications.

  14. A protein/antibiotic releasing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/lecithin scaffold for bone repair applications.

    PubMed

    Shi, Xuetao; Wang, Yingjun; Ren, Li; Huang, Wei; Wang, Dong-An

    2009-05-21

    Novel poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-hybridizing-lecithin scaffolds loaded with drug or protein were prepared with water/oil/water techniques and sintering microspheres technique. In such fabricated composite scaffolds (abbreviated "PLGA/Lec-SMS"), the introduction of lecithin component has been proven capable of largely enhancing Gentamicin (GS) and protein (Bovine Serum Albumin) encapsulation efficiency. The in vitro GS and BSA releasing profiles of PLGA/Lec-SMS system were plotted basing over 60 days' and 18 days' data collection, respectively. It indicates a sustained releasing tendency despite a burst at the very beginning. The antibacterial properties of GS-laden scaffolds were determined in vitro, and the antibacterial activity of scaffolds was enhanced by incorporating lecithin into PLGA bulks. Additionally, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were seeded onto PLGA-SMS and PLGA/Lec-SMS in vitro. The outcome confirmed PLGA/Lec(5%)-SMS functions to improve MSC proliferation and also to enhance general ALP production and calcium secretion which is the vital markers for osteogenesis. In conclusion, this newly designed antibiotic releasing PLGA/Lec-SMS is promising for bone-repairing therapeutics.

  15. Development and characterization of hyaluronic acid decorated PLGA nanoparticles for delivery of 5-fluorouracil.

    PubMed

    Yadav, Awesh K; Agarwal, Abhinav; Rai, Gopal; Mishra, Pradeep; Jain, Sanyog; Mishra, Anil K; Agrawal, Himanshu; Agrawal, Govind P

    2010-11-01

    The present investigation was aimed to develop and explore the prospective of engineered PLGA nanoparticles as vehicles for targeted delivery of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Nanoparticles of 5-FU-loaded hyaluronic acid-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (HA-PEG-PLGA-FU) copolymer were prepared and characterized by FTIR, NMR, transmission electron microscopy, particle size analysis, DSC, and X-ray diffractometer measurement studies. The nanoparticulate formulation was evaluated for in vitro release, hemolytic toxicity, and hematological toxicity. Cytotoxicity studies were performed on Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cell lines using MTT cell proliferation assay. Biodistribution studies of 99m Tc labeled formulation were conducted on EAT-bearing mice. The in vivo tumor inhibition study was also performed after i.v. administration of HA-PEG-PLGA-FU nanoparticles. The HA conjugated formulation was found to be less hemolytic but more cytotoxic as compared to free drug. The hematological data suggested that HA-PEG-PLGA-FU formulation was less immunogenic compared to plain drug. The tissue distribution studies displayed that HA-PEG-PLGA-FU were able to deliver a higher concentration of 5-FU in the tumor mass. In addition, the HA-PEG-PLGA-FU nanoparticles reduced tumor volume significantly in comparison with 5-FU. Thus, it was concluded that the conjugation of HA imparts targetability to the formulation, and enhanced permeation and retention effect ruled out its access to the non-tumor tissues, at the same time favored selective entry in tumors, thereby reducing the side-effects both in vitro and in vivo.

  16. Development of biodegradable PLGA nanoparticles surface engineered with hyaluronic acid for targeted delivery of paclitaxel to triple negative breast cancer cells.

    PubMed

    Cerqueira, Brenda Brenner S; Lasham, Annette; Shelling, Andrew N; Al-Kassas, Raida

    2017-07-01

    This study aimed at development of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles embedded with paclitaxel and coated with hyaluronic acid (HA-PTX-PLGA) to actively target the drug to a triple negative breast cancer cells. Nanoparticles were successfully fabricated using a modified oil-in-water emulsion method. The effect of various formulations parameters on the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles was investigated. SEM imaging confirmed the spherical shape and nano-scale size of the nanoparticles. A sustained drug release profile was obtained and enhanced PTX cytotoxicity was observed when MDA-MB-231 cells were incubated with the HA-PTX-PLGA formulation compared to cells incubated with the non-HA coated nanoparticles. Moreover, HA-PLGA nanoparticles exhibited improved cellular uptake, based on a possible receptor mediated endocytosis due to interaction of HA with CD44 receptors when compared to non-coated PLGA nanoparticles. The non-haemolytic potential of the nanoparticles indicated the suitability of the developed formulation for intravenous administration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Aspartic acid-based modified PLGA-PEG nanoparticles for bone targeting: in vitro and in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Fu, Yin-Chih; Fu, Tzu-Fun; Wang, Hung-Jen; Lin, Che-Wei; Lee, Gang-Hui; Wu, Shun-Cheng; Wang, Chih-Kuang

    2014-11-01

    Nanoparticles (NP) that target bone tissue were developed using PLGA-PEG (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-polyethylene glycol) diblock copolymers and bone-targeting moieties based on aspartic acid, (Asp)(n(1,3)). These NP are expected to enable the transport of hydrophobic drugs. The molecular structures were examined by (1)H NMR or identified using mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The NP were prepared using the water miscible solvent displacement method, and their size characteristics were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering. The bone targeting potential of the NP was evaluated in vitro using hydroxyapatite affinity assays and in vivo using fluorescent imaging in zebrafish and rats. It was confirmed that the average particle size of the NP was <200 nm and that the dendritic Asp3 moiety of the PLGA-PEG-Asp3 NP exhibited the best apatite mineral binding ability. Preliminary findings in vivo bone affinity assays in zebrafish and rats indicated that the PLGA-PEG-ASP3 NP may display increased bone-targeting efficiency compared with other PLGA-PEG-based NP that lack a dendritic Asp3 moiety. These NP may act as a delivery system for hydrophobic drugs, warranting further evaluation of the treatment of bone disease. Copyright © 2014 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Poly aspartic acid peptide-linked PLGA based nanoscale particles: potential for bone-targeting drug delivery applications.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Tao; Yu, Xiaohua; Carbone, Erica J; Nelson, Clarke; Kan, Ho Man; Lo, Kevin W-H

    2014-11-20

    Delivering drugs specifically to bone tissue is very challenging due to the architecture and structure of bone tissue. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based nanoparticles (NPs) hold great promise for the delivery of therapeutics to bone tissue. The goal of the present research was to formulate a PLGA-based NP drug delivery system for bone tissue exclusively. Since poly-aspartic acids (poly-Asp) peptide sequence has been shown to bind to hydroxyapatite (HA), and has been suggested as a molecular tool for bone-targeting applications, we fabricated PLGA-based NPs linked with poly-Asp peptide sequence. Nanoparticles made of methoxy - poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-PLGA and maleimide-PEG-PLGA were prepared using a water-in-oil-in-water double emulsion and solvent evaporation method. Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-tagged poly-Asp peptide was conjugated to the surface of the nanoparticles via the alkylation reaction between the sulfhydryl groups at the N-terminal of the peptide and the CC double bond of maleimide at one end of the polymer chain to form thioether bonds. The conjugation of FITC-tagged poly-Asp peptide to PLGA NPs was confirmed by NMR analysis and fluorescent microscopy. The developed nanoparticle system is highly aqueous dispersible with an average particle size of ∼80 nm. In vitro binding analyses demonstrated that FITC-poly-Asp NPs were able to bind to HA gel as well as to mineralized matrices produced by human mesenchymal stem cells and mouse bone marrow stromal cells. Using a confocal microscopy technique, an ex vivo binding study of mouse major organ ground sections revealed that the FITC-poly-Asp NPs were able to bind specifically to the bone tissue. In addition, proliferation studies indicated that our FITC-poly-Asp NPs did not induce cytotoxicity to human osteoblast-like MG63 cell lines. Altogether, these promising results indicated that this nanoscale targeting system was able to bind to bone tissue specifically and might have a great

  19. Physicochemical characterization of camptothecin membrane binding properties and polymeric microsphere formulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Selvi, Bilge

    acidic media CPT-loaded microspheres were prepared in a 10 N HCl-methylene chloride mixture using the H-series of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (H-PLGA). The system was then compared with a standard microsphere formation method and the results were evaluated with respect to particle morphology and drug release profile. Rough surface of the particles were obtained from the preparation method where a 10 N HCl solution was used. The release pattern of CPT was biphasic comprising a first burst effect followed by zero order release for all the formulations. However, the release of the drug was slightly faster from the microspheres formed with the modified method compared to the standard. Until now clinical application of CPT has been highly restricted by the insolubility and instability of the drug in its active lactone form, resulting in less antitumor potency and poor bioavailability. The pH-dependent release of the CPT-loaded microspheres was also compared and faster initial release (burst phase) was found at neutral pH, whereas at low pH the release was zero order for all the formulations. The results indicate that the stabilization and sustained release of CPT from H-PLGA microspheres might reduce local toxicity while simultaneously prolonging efficiency, suggesting new perspectives in CPT chemotherapy.

  20. Hyaluronic acid-grafted PLGA nanoparticles for the sustained delivery of berberine chloride for an efficient suppression of Ehrlich ascites tumors.

    PubMed

    Bhatnagar, Priyanka; Kumari, Manisha; Pahuja, Richa; Pant, A B; Shukla, Y; Kumar, Pradeep; Gupta, K C

    2018-06-01

    To promote the specific targeting and elimination of CD44-positive cancer cells, berberine chloride (BRB)-encapsulated hyaluronic acid-grafted poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymer (BRB-d(HA)-g-PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared. The targeted action of these NPs was compared to non-targeted BRB-loaded PLGA NPs and bulk BRB. The in vitro studies demonstrated faster release of BRB and increased cytotoxicity of BRB-d(HA)-g-PLGA NPs in Hela and MCF-7 cells in comparison to BRB-PLGA NPs and bulk BRB. The uptake of BRB-d(HA)-g-PLGA NPs was increased in case of MCF-7 cells as compared to HeLa cells owing to the higher expression of CD44 receptors on MCF-7 cells. The CD44 receptor-mediated uptake of these NPs was confirmed through competitive inhibition experiments. The in vitro results were further validated in vivo in Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC)-bearing mice. EAC-bearing mice were injected intravenously with these NPs and the results obtained were compared with that of BRB-PLGA NPs and bulk BRB. BRB-d(HA)-g-PLGA NPs were found to significantly enhance apoptosis, sub-G1 content, life span, mean survival time, and ROS levels in EAC cells with subsequent decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and tumor burden ion tumor-bearing mice. Taking into account the findings of in vitro and in vivo studies, the enhanced and targeted anti-tumor activity of HA-grafted PLGA copolymer-encapsulated NPs of BRB cannot be negated. Therefore, HA-grafted nanoparticle-based delivery of BRB may offer a promising and improved alternative for anti-tumor therapy.

  1. Ketamine nano-delivery based on poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hirano, Sota; Bovi, Michele; Romeo, Alessandro; Guzzo, Flavia; Chiamulera, Cristiano; Perduca, Massimiliano

    2018-04-01

    This work describes a novel method for the generation of a ketamine nano-delivery, to improve brain blood barrier permeability and increase drug therapeutic window as anaesthetic, analgesic and potential antidepressant. The approach herein described is based on ketamine-loaded poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles coupled to an apolipoprotein E (ApoE) peptide for delivery to the central nervous system. PLGA particles were synthesized with amount of drug, coupled with the ApoE peptide on the surface, and validated by physical characterization. The produced nanodevice showed a good colloidal stability in water, confirmed by zeta potential measurements, with a diameter in the range of 185-205 nm. The ketamine encapsulation was verified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses obtaining an encapsulation efficiency up to 21.2 ± 3.54%. Once the occurrence of ApoE peptide functionalization was confirmed with fluorescence spectroscopy, the thermal stability and morphological information were obtained by differential scanning calorimetry and further dynamic light scattering measurements. The spherical shape and a rough nanoparticles surface were observed by atomic force microscopy. The reliability of this approach may be further developed as a protocol to be used to generate PLGA nanoparticles greater than 100 nm able to better penetrate blood brain barrier and release a neuroactive molecule at lower doses.

  2. Co-delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin-1 using injectable microsphere/hydrogel hybrid systems for therapeutic angiogenesis.

    PubMed

    Shin, Seung-Hwa; Lee, Jangwook; Ahn, Dong-Gyun; Lee, Kuen Yong

    2013-08-01

    We hypothesized that combined delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) using microsphere/hydrogel hybrid systems could enhance mature vessel formation compared with administration of each factor alone. Hybrid delivery systems composed of alginate hydrogels and poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres containing angiogenic factors were prepared. The release behavior of angiogenic factors from hybrid systems was monitored in vitro. The hybrid systems were injected into an ischemic rodent model, and blood vessel formation at the ischemic site was evaluated. The sustained release over 4 weeks of both VEGF and Ang-1 from hybrid systems was achieved in vitro. Co-delivery of VEGF and Ang-1 was advantageous to retain muscle tissues and significantly induced vessel enlargement at the ischemic site, compared to mice treated with either VEGF or Ang-1 alone. Sustained and combined delivery of VEGF and Ang-1 significantly enhances vessel enlargement at the ischemic site, compared with sustained delivery of either factor alone. Microsphere/hydrogel hybrid systems may be a promising vehicle for delivery of multiple drugs for many therapeutic applications.

  3. An overview of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based biomaterials for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Gentile, Piergiorgio; Chiono, Valeria; Carmagnola, Irene; Hatton, Paul V

    2014-02-28

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) has attracted considerable interest as a base material for biomedical applications due to its: (i) biocompatibility; (ii) tailored biodegradation rate (depending on the molecular weight and copolymer ratio); (iii) approval for clinical use in humans by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); (iv) potential to modify surface properties to provide better interaction with biological materials; and (v) suitability for export to countries and cultures where implantation of animal-derived products is unpopular. This paper critically reviews the scientific challenge of manufacturing PLGA-based materials with suitable properties and shapes for specific biomedical applications, with special emphasis on bone tissue engineering. The analysis of the state of the art in the field reveals the presence of current innovative techniques for scaffolds and material manufacturing that are currently opening the way to prepare biomimetic PLGA substrates able to modulate cell interaction for improved substitution, restoration, or enhancement of bone tissue function.

  4. Interaction of PLGA and trimethyl chitosan modified PLGA nanoparticles with mixed anionic/zwitterionic phospholipid bilayers studied using molecular dynamics simulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Novak, Brian; Astete, Carlos; Sabliov, Cristina; Moldovan, Dorel

    2012-02-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a biodegradable polymer. Nanoparticles of PLGA are commonly used for drug delivery applications. The interaction of the nanoparticles with the cell membrane may influence the rate of their uptake by cells. Both PLGA and cell membranes are negatively charged, so adding positively charged polymers such as trimethyl chitosan (TMC) which adheres to the PLGA particles improves their cellular uptake. The interaction of 3 nm PLGA and TMC-modified-PLGA nanoparticles with lipid bilayers composed of mixtures of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine lipids was studied using molecular dynamics simulations. The free energy profiles as function of nanoparticles position along the normal direction to the bilayers were calculated, the distribution of phosphatidylserine lipids as a function of distance of the particle from the bilayer was calculated, and the time scale for particle motion in the directions parallel to the bilayer surface was estimated.

  5. Incorporation of mesoporous silica nanoparticles into random electrospun PLGA and PLGA/gelatin nanofibrous scaffolds enhances mechanical and cell proliferation properties.

    PubMed

    Mehrasa, Mohammad; Asadollahi, Mohammad Ali; Nasri-Nasrabadi, Bijan; Ghaedi, Kamran; Salehi, Hossein; Dolatshahi-Pirouz, Alireza; Arpanaei, Ayyoob

    2016-09-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and PLGA/gelatin random nanofibrous scaffolds embedded with different amounts of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) were fabricated using electrospinning method. To evaluate the effects of nanoparticles on the scaffolds, physical, chemical, and mechanical properties as well as in vitro degradation behavior of scaffolds were investigated. The mean diameters of nanofibers were 974±68nm for the pure PLGA scaffolds vs 832±70, 764±80, and 486±64 for the PLGA/gelatin, PLGA/10wt% MSNPs, and the PLGA/gelatin/10wt% MSNPs scaffolds, respectively. The results suggested that the incorporation of gelatin and MSNPs into PLGA-based scaffolds enhances the hydrophilicity of scaffolds due to an increase of hydrophilic functional groups on the surface of nanofibers. With porosity examination, it was concluded that the incorporation of MSNPs and gelatin decrease the porosity of scaffolds. Nanoparticles also improved the tensile mechanical properties of scaffolds. Using in vitro degradation analysis, it was shown that the addition of nanoparticles to the nanofibers matrix increases the weight loss percentage of PLGA-based samples, whereas it decreases the weight loss percentage in the PLGA/gelatin composites. Cultivation of rat pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12), as precursor cells of dopaminergic neural cells, on the scaffolds demonstrated that the introduction of MSNPs into PLGA and PLGA/gelatin matrix leads to improved cell attachment and proliferation and enhances cellular processes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Humidity-dependent compression-induced glass transition of the air–water interfacial Langmuir films of poly(D,L-lactic acid- ran-glycolic acid) (PLGA)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kim, Hyun Chang; Lee, Hoyoung; Jung, Hyunjung

    2015-08-26

    Constant rate compression isotherms of the air–water interfacial Langmuir films of poly(D,L-lactic acid- ran-glycolic acid) (PLGA)show a distinct feature of an exponential increase in surface pressure in the high surface polymer concentration regime. We have previously demonstrated that this abrupt increase in surface pressure is linked to the glass transition of the polymer film, but the detailed mechanism of this process is not understood. In order to obtain a molecular-level understanding of this behavior, we performed extensive characterizations of the surface mechanical, structural and rheological properties of Langmuir PLGA films at the air–water interface, using combined experimental techniques including themore » Langmuir film balance, X-ray reflectivity and double-wall-ring interfacial rheometry methods.« less

  7. Material Characterization of Microsphere-Based Scaffolds with Encapsulated Raw Materials

    PubMed Central

    Sridharan, BanuPriya; Mohan, Neethu; Berkland, Cory J.; Detamore, Michael S.

    2016-01-01

    “Raw materials,” or materials capable of serving both as building blocks and as signals, which are often but not always natural materials, are taking center stage in biomaterials for contemporary regenerative medicine. In osteochondral tissue engineering, a field leveraging the underlying bone to facilitate cartilage regeneration, common raw materials include chondroitin sulfate (CS) for cartilage and β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) for bone. Building on our previous work with gradient scaffolds based on microspheres, here we delved deeper into the characterization of individual components. In the current study, the release of CS and TCP from poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microsphere-based scaffolds was evaluated over a time period of 4 weeks. Raw material encapsulated groups were compared to ‘blank’ groups and evaluated for surface topology, molecular weight, and mechanical performance as a function of time. The CS group may have led to increased surface porosity, and the addition of CS improved the mechanical performance of the scaffold. The finding that CS was completely released into the surrounding media by 4 weeks has a significant impact on future in vivo studies, given rapid bioavailability. The addition of TCP seemed to contribute to the rough external appearance of the scaffold. The current study provides an introduction to degradation patterns of homogenous raw material encapsulated scaffolds, providing characterization data to advance the field of microsphere-based scaffolds in tissue engineering. PMID:27040236

  8. Morphological characterization of microspheres, films and implants prepared from poly(lactide-co-glycolide) and ABA triblock copolymers: is the erosion controlled by degradation, swelling or diffusion?

    PubMed

    Witt, C; Kissel, T

    2001-05-01

    Erosion of biodegradable parenteral delivery systems (PDS) based on ABA copolymers consisting of poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) A-blocks attached to polyethylene oxide (PEO) B-blocks, or PLGA is important for the release of macromolecular drugs. The degradation behavior of four types of PDS, namely extruded rods, tablets, films and microspheres, was studied with respect to molecular weight, mass, polymer composition and shape and microstructure of the PDS. For each device the onset time of bulk erosion (t(on)) and the apparent rate of mass loss (k(app)) were calculated. In the case of PLGA, the t(on) was 16.2 days for microspheres, 19.2 days for films and 30.1 days for cylindrical implants and tablets. The k(app) was 0.04 days(-1) for microspheres, 0.09 days(-1) for films, 0.11 days(-1) for implants and 0.10 days(-1) for tablets. The degradation rates were in the same range irrespective of the geometry and the micrographs of eroding PDS demonstrated pore formation; therefore, a complex pore diffusion mechanism seems to control the erosion of PLGA devices. In contrast, PDS based on ABA copolymers showed swelling, followed by a parallel process of molecular weight degradation and polymer erosion, independent of the geometry. The contact angles of ABA films increased either with decreasing PEO content or with increasing chain length of the PEO B-blocks. In summary, the insertion of a hydrophilic B-block leads to an erosion controlled by degradation of ABA copolymers, whereas for PLGA a complex pore diffusion of degradation products controls the rate of bulk erosion.

  9. PLGA: a unique polymer for drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Kapoor, Deepak N; Bhatia, Amit; Kaur, Ripandeep; Sharma, Ruchi; Kaur, Gurvinder; Dhawan, Sanju

    2015-01-01

    Biodegradable polymers have played an important role in the delivery of drugs in a controlled and targeted manner. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is one of the extensively researched synthetic biodegradable polymers due to its favorable properties. It is also known as a 'Smart Polymer' due to its stimuli sensitive behavior. A wide range of PLGA-based drug delivery systems have been reported for the treatment or diagnosis of various diseases and disorders. The present review provides an overview of the chemistry, physicochemical properties, biodegradation behavior, evaluation parameters and applications of PLGA in drug delivery. Different drug-polymer combinations developed into drug delivery or carrier systems are enumerated and discussed.

  10. In vitro evaluation of chitosan/poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) sintered microsphere scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Tao; Abdel-Fattah, Wafa I; Laurencin, Cato T

    2006-10-01

    A three-dimensional (3-D) scaffold is one of the major components in many tissue engineering approaches. We developed novel 3-D chitosan/poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) (PLAGA) composite porous scaffolds by sintering together composite chitosan/PLAGA microspheres for bone tissue engineering applications. Pore sizes, pore volume, and mechanical properties of the scaffolds can be manipulated by controlling fabrication parameters, including sintering temperature and sintering time. The sintered microsphere scaffolds had a total pore volume between 28% and 37% with median pore size in the range 170-200microm. The compressive modulus and compressive strength of the scaffolds are in the range of trabecular bone making them suitable as scaffolds for load-bearing bone tissue engineering. In addition, MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells proliferated well on the composite scaffolds as compared to PLAGA scaffolds. It was also shown that the presence of chitosan on microsphere surfaces increased the alkaline phosphatase activity of the cells cultured on the composite scaffolds and up-regulated gene expression of alkaline phosphatase, osteopontin, and bone sialoprotein.

  11. Bone Regeneration from PLGA Micro-Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Ortega-Oller, Inmaculada; Galindo-Moreno, Pablo; Jódar-Reyes, Ana Belén; Peula-García, Jose Manuel

    2015-01-01

    Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is one of the most widely used synthetic polymers for development of delivery systems for drugs and therapeutic biomolecules and as component of tissue engineering applications. Its properties and versatility allow it to be a reference polymer in manufacturing of nano- and microparticles to encapsulate and deliver a wide variety of hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules. It additionally facilitates and extends its use to encapsulate biomolecules such as proteins or nucleic acids that can be released in a controlled way. This review focuses on the use of nano/microparticles of PLGA as a delivery system of one of the most commonly used growth factors in bone tissue engineering, the bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2). Thus, all the needed requirements to reach a controlled delivery of BMP2 using PLGA particles as a main component have been examined. The problems and solutions for the adequate development of this system with a great potential in cell differentiation and proliferation processes under a bone regenerative point of view are discussed. PMID:26509156

  12. Release of paclitaxel from polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) microparticles and discs under irradiation.

    PubMed

    Wang, J; Ng, C W; Win, K Y; Shoemakers, P; Lee, T K Y; Feng, S S; Wang, C H

    2003-01-01

    Paclitaxel is a promising anti-cancer drug as well as a radiosensitizer for chemotherapy and radiotherapy applications. Because of the poor solubility of paclitaxel in water and most pharmaceutical reagents, it is usually formulated with an adjuvant called Cremophor EL, which causes severe side effects. This work develops new dosage forms of paclitaxel for controlled release application, which do not require the adjuvant and, thus, can avoid its associated side effects. Paclitaxel was encapsulated into the PLGA matrix with various additives such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), isopropyl myristate (IPM) and d-alpha tocopheryl polyethylene glycol (Vitamin E TPGS). These additives were used to enhance the release rate of paclitaxel from the polymer matrix. Spray-drying and an hydraulic press were used to prepare paclitaxel-PLGA microspheres and discs. The microspheres and discs were given different irradiation doses to investigate their effects on the surface morphology (characterized by SEM, AFM and XPS) and in vitro release properties. There seems to be a small effect of the ionizing radiation on various formulations. Although the irradiation did not cause observable changes on the morphology of the polymer matrix, the release rate can be enhanced by a few per cent. It was found that PEG has the highest enhancement effect for release rate among all the additives investigated in this study.

  13. Synthesis of porous poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) microspheres through one-step soap-free emulsion polymerization: whys and wherefores.

    PubMed

    Yan, Rui; Zhang, Yaoyao; Wang, Xiaohui; Xu, Jianxiong; Wang, Da; Zhang, Wangqing

    2012-02-15

    Synthesis of porous poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) (PS-co-PAA) microspheres through one-step soap-free emulsion polymerization is reported. Various porous PS-co-PAA microspheres with the particle size ranging from 150 to 240 nm and with the pore size ranging from 4 to 25 nm are fabricated. The porous structure of the microspheres is confirmed by the transmission electron microscopy measurement and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis. The reason for synthesis of the porous PS-co-PAA microspheres is discussed, and the phase separation between the encapsulated hydrophilic poly(acrylic acid) segment and the hydrophobic polystyrene domain within the PS-co-PAA microspheres is ascribed to the pore formation. The present synthesis of the porous PS-co-PAA microspheres is anticipated to be a new and convenient way to fabricate porous polymeric particles. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Hemocompatibility of folic-acid-conjugated amphiphilic PEG-PLGA copolymer nanoparticles for co-delivery of cisplatin and paclitaxel: treatment effects for non-small-cell lung cancer.

    PubMed

    He, Zelai; Shi, Zengfang; Sun, Wenjie; Ma, Jing; Xia, Junyong; Zhang, Xiangyu; Chen, Wenjun; Huang, Jingwen

    2016-06-01

    In this study, we used folic-acid-modified poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (FA-PEG-PLGA) to encapsulate cisplatin and paclitaxel (separately or together), and evaluated their antitumor effects against lung cancer; this study was conducted in order to investigate the antitumor effects of the co-delivery of cisplatin and paclitaxel by a targeted drug delivery system. Blood compatibility assays and complement activation tests revealed that FA-PEG-PLGA nanoparticles did not induce blood hemolysis, blood clotting, or complement activation. The results also indicated that FA-PEG-PLGA nanoparticles had no biotoxic effects, the drug delivery system allowed controlled release of the cargo molecules, and the co-delivery of cisplatin and paclitaxel efficiently induces cancer cell apoptosis and cell cycle retardation. In addition, co-delivery of cisplatin and paclitaxel showed the ability to suppress xenograft lung cancer growth and prolong the survival time of xenografted mice. These results implied that FA-PEG-PLGA nanoparticles can function as effective carriers of cisplatin and paclitaxel, and that co-delivery of cisplatin and paclitaxel by FA-PEG-PLGA nanoparticles results in more effective antitumor effects than the combination of free-drugs or single-drug-loaded nanoparticles.

  15. Sustained release of simvastatin from hollow carbonated hydroxyapatite microspheres prepared by aspartic acid and sodium dodecyl sulfate.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ke; Wang, Yinjing; Zhao, Xu; Li, Yi; Yang, Tao; Zhang, Xue; Wu, Xiaoguang

    2017-06-01

    Hollow carbonated hydroxyapatite (HCHAp) microspheres as simvastatin (SV) sustained-release vehicles were fabricated through a novel and simple one-step biomimetic strategy. Firstly, hollow CaCO 3 microspheres were precipitated through the reaction of CaCl 2 with Na 2 CO 3 in the presence of aspartic acid and sodium dodecyl sulfate. Then, the as-prepared hollow CaCO 3 microspheres were transformed into HCHAp microspheres with a controlled anion-exchange method. The HCHAp microspheres were 3-5μm with a shell thickness of 0.5-1μm and were constructed of short needle nanoparticles. The HCHAp microspheres were then loaded with SV, exhibiting excellent drug-loading capacity and sustained release properties. These results present a new material synthesis strategy for HCHAp microspheres and suggest that the as-prepared HCHAp microspheres are promising for applications in drug delivery. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Prevention of adhesion bands by ibuprofen-loaded PLGA nanofibers.

    PubMed

    Jamshidi-Adegani, Fatemeh; Seyedjafari, Ehsan; Gheibi, Nematollah; Soleimani, Masoud; Sahmani, Mehdi

    2016-07-08

    In this study, prevention of the adhesion bands and inflammatory features has been investigated using poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)-ibuprofen (PLGA-IB) nanofibrous meshes in a mice model. To find the optimized membrane for prevention of postoperative adhesion bands, we have compared PLGA-IB group with PLGA, IB, and control groups in a mice adhesion model. Two scoring adhesion systems were used to represent the outcome. According to the results obtained in this study, the PLGA-IB nanofiber membrane showed a greater reduction in adhesion band than other groups. In conclusion, among FDA-approved polymers and drugs, PLGA-IB meshes could be applicable as a potential candidate for prevention of postoperative abdominal inflammation and adhesion bands formation. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:990-997, 2016. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

  17. Polyacrolein microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rembaum, Alan (Inventor)

    1983-01-01

    Microspheres of acrolein homopolymers and co-polymer with hydrophillic comonomers such as methacrylic acid and/or hydroxyethylmethacrylate are prepared by cobalt gamma irradiation of dilute aqueous solutions of the monomers in presence of suspending agents, especially alkyl sulfates such as sodium dodecyl sulfate. Amine or hydroxyl modification is achieved by forming adducts with diamines or alkanol amines. Carboxyl modification is effected by oxidation with peroxides. Pharmaceuticals or other aldehyde reactive materials can be coupled to the microspheres. The microspheres directly form antibody adducts without agglomeration.

  18. Polyacrolein microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rembaum, Alan (Inventor)

    1986-01-01

    Microspheres of acrolein homopolymers and copolymer with hydrophillic comonomers such as methacrylic acid and/or hydroxyethylmethacrylate are prepared by cobalt gamma irradiation of dilute aqueous solutions of the monomers in presence of suspending agents, especially alkyl sulfates such as sodium dodecyl sulfate. Amine or hydroxyl modification is achieved by forming adducts with diamines or alkanol amines. Carboxyl modification is effected by oxidation with peroxides. Pharmaceuticals or other aldehyde reactive materials can be coupled to the microspheres. The microspheres directly form antibody adducts without agglomeration.

  19. Polyacrolein microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rembaum, Alan (Inventor)

    1987-01-01

    Microspheres of acrolein homopolymers and copolymer with hydrophillic comonomers such as methacrylic acid and/or hydroxyethylmethacrylate are prepared by cobalt gamma irradiation of dilute aqueous solutions of the monomers in presence of suspending agents, especially alkyl sulfates such as sodium dodecyl sulfate. Amine or hydroxyl modification is achieved by forming adducts with diamines or alkanol amines. Carboxyl modification is effected by oxidation with peroxides. Pharmaceuticals or other aldehyde reactive materials can be coupled to the microspheres. The microspheres directly form antibody adducts without agglomeration.

  20. PEG modulated release of etanidazole from implantable PLGA/PDLA discs.

    PubMed

    Wang, Fangjing; Lee, Timothy; Wang, Chi-Hwa

    2002-09-01

    In this work, etanidazole (one type of hypoxic radiosensitizer) is encapsulated into spray dried poly(D),L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres and then compressed into discs for controlled release applications. Etanidazole is characterized by intracellular glutathione depletion and glutathione transferases inhibition, thereby enhancing sensitivity to radiation. It is also cytotoxic to tumor cells and can chemosensitize some alkylating agents by activating their tumor cell killing capabilities. We observed the release characteristics of etanidazole in the dosage forms of microspheres and discs, subjected to different preparation conditions. The release characteristics, morphology changes, particle size, and encapsulation efficiency of microspheres are also investigated. The release rate of etanidazole from implantable discs (13 mm in diameter, 1 mm in thickness, fabricated by a press) is much lower than microspheres due to the reduced specific surface. After the initial burst of 1% release for the first day, the cumulative release within the first week is less than 2% until a secondary burst of release (caused by polymer degradation) occurs after one month. Some key preparation conditions such as drug loadings, disc thickness and diameter, and compression pressure can affect the initial burst of etanidazole from the discs. However, none of them can significantly make the release more uniform. In contrast, the incorporation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) can greatly enhance the release rate of discs and also reduces the secondary burst effect, thereby achieving a sustained release for about 2 months.

  1. Development of a single-dose recombinant CAMP factor entrapping poly(lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres-based vaccine against Streptococcus agalactiae.

    PubMed

    Liu, Gang; Yin, Jinhua; Barkema, Herman W; Chen, Liben; Shahid, Muhammad; Szenci, Otto; De Buck, Jeroen; Kastelic, John P; Han, Bo

    2017-03-01

    Streptococcus agalactiae is an important contagious bovine mastitis pathogen. Although it is well controlled and even eradicated in most Northern European and North American dairy herds, the prevalence of this pathogen remains very high in China. However, research on development of a vaccine against S. agalactiae mastitis is scarce. The aims of the present study were to: (1) develop a single-dose vaccine against S. agalactiae based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres (MS) encapsulated CAMP factor, a conserved virulent protein encoded by S. agalactiae's cfb gene; and (2) evaluate its immunogenicity and protective efficacy in a mouse model. The cfb gene was cloned and expressed in a recombinant Escherichia coli strain Trans1-T1. The CAMP factor was tested to determine a safe dose range and then encapsulated in MS of PLGA (50:50) to assess its release pattern in vitro and immune reaction in vivo. Furthermore, a mouse model and a histopathological assay were developed to evaluate bacterial burden and vaccine efficacy. In the low dosage range (<100μg), CAMP factor had no obvious toxicity in mice. The release pattern in vitro was characterized by an initial burst release (44%), followed by a sustained and slower release over 7wk. In mice immunized with either pure CAMP factor protein or PLGA-CAMP, increased antibody titers were detected in the first 2wk, whereas only PLGA-CAMP immunization induced a sustained increase of antibody titers. In mice vaccinated with PLGA-CAMP, mortality and bacteria counts were lower (compared to a control group) after S. agalactiae challenge. Additionally, no pathological lesions were detected in the vaccinated group. Therefore, PLGA-CAMP conferred protective efficacy against S. agalactiae in our mouse model, indicating its potential as a vaccine against S. agalactiae mastitis. Furthermore, the slow-release kinetics of PLGA MS warranted optimism for development of a single-dose vaccine. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by

  2. PLGA based drug delivery systems: Promising carriers for wound healing activity.

    PubMed

    Chereddy, Kiran Kumar; Vandermeulen, Gaëlle; Préat, Véronique

    2016-03-01

    Wound treatment remains one of the most prevalent and economically burdensome healthcare issues in the world. Current treatment options are limited and require repeated administrations which led to the development of new therapeutics to satisfy the unmet clinical needs. Many potent wound healing agents were discovered but most of them are fragile and/or sensitive to in vivo conditions. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a widely used biodegradable polymer approved by food and drug administration and European medicines agency as an excipient for parenteral administrations. It is a well-established drug delivery system in various medical applications. The aim of the current review is to elaborate the applications of PLGA based drug delivery systems carrying different wound healing agents and also present PLGA itself as a wound healing promoter. PLGA carriers encapsulating drugs such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, proteins/peptides, and nucleic acids targeting various phases/signaling cycles of wound healing, are discussed with examples. The combined therapeutic effects of PLGA and a loaded drug on wound healing are also mentioned. © 2016 by the Wound Healing Society.

  3. Processing and size range separation of pristine and magnetic poly(l-lactic acid) based microspheres for biomedical applications.

    PubMed

    Correia, D M; Sencadas, V; Ribeiro, C; Martins, P M; Martins, P; Gama, F M; Botelho, G; Lanceros-Méndez, S

    2016-08-15

    Biodegradable poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) and PLLA/CoFe2O4 magnetic microspheres with average sizes ranging between 0.16-3.9μm and 0.8-2.2μm, respectively, were obtained by an oil-in-water emulsion method using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) solution as the emulsifier agent. The separation of the microspheres in different size ranges was then performed by centrifugation and the colloidal stability assessed at different pH values. Neat PLLA spheres are more stable in alkaline environments when compared to magnetic microspheres, both types being stable for pHs higher than 4, resulting in a colloidal suspension. On the other hand, in acidic environments the microspheres tend to form aggregates. The neat PLLA microspheres show a degree of crystallinity of 40% whereas the composite ones are nearly amorphous (17%). Finally, the biocompatibility was assessed by cell viability studies with MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cells. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. PLGA-based microcarriers induce mesenchymal stem cell chondrogenesis and stimulate cartilage repair in osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Morille, Marie; Toupet, Karine; Montero-Menei, Claudia N; Jorgensen, Christian; Noël, Danièle

    2016-05-01

    In the present study, we aimed at evaluating the ability of novel PLGA-P188-PLGA-based microspheres to induce the differentiation of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) into chondrocytes. To this aim, we tested microspheres releasing TGFβ3 (PAM-T) in vitro and in situ, in a pathological osteoarthritic (OA) environment. We first evaluated the chondrogenic differentiation of human MSCs seeded onto PAM-T in vitro and confirmed the up-regulation of chondrogenic markers while the secretome of the cells was not changed by the 3D environment. We then injected human MSC seeded onto PAM-T in the knee joints of mice with collagenase-induced OA. After 6 weeks, histological analysis revealed that formation of a cartilage-like tissue occurred at the vicinity of PAM-T that was not observed when MSCs were seeded onto PAM. We also noticed that the endogenous articular cartilage was less degraded. The extent of cartilage protection was further analysed by confocal laser microscopy. When MSCs seeded onto PAM-T were injected early after OA induction, protection of cartilage against degradation was evidenced and this effect was associated to a higher survival of MSCs in presence of TGFβ3. This study points to the interest of using MSCs seeded onto PAM for cartilage repair and stimulation of endogenous cartilage regeneration. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. pH-Sensitive Self-Assembled Microspheres Composed of Poly(Ethyleneimine) and Cinnamic Acid.

    PubMed

    Park, Danbi; Lee, Seung-Jun; Kim, Jin-Chul

    2018-01-01

    Microspheres which were sensitive to pH change were developed by utilizing cinnamic acid (CA) as a physical cross-linker for poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI). At pH 7.0, the microspheres were efficiently formed at the PEI/CA ratio of 1:3.4, 1:5.1, and 1:7.1 (w/w), which corresponded to the protonated amino group/deprotonated carboxyl group ratio of 5:5, 4:6, and 3:7. The mean diameter of wet microspheres was 3.2 ± 0.3 to 8.8 ± 0.5 μm and that of dry ones was 1.7 ± 0.2 to 2.7 ± 0.2 μm. The microspheres were disappeared upon the alkalification, possibly because the electrostatic interaction between PEI and CA was slackened down and the hydrophobic interaction among CA molecules was weakened. At pH 5.0 and 7.0, the microsphere released its content in a sustained manner and the release degree in 24 h was less than 40%. Whereas, at pH 8.0 and 9.0, the microsphere exhibited a burst release and the release degree in 24 h was greater than 80%. In the alkali condition, not only the electrostatic interaction between PEI and CA but also the hydrophobic interaction among CA molecules became weaker, leading to the disintegration of the microsphere and resulting in a burst and intensive release.

  6. Improving release completeness from PLGA-based implants for the acid-labile model protein ovalbumin.

    PubMed

    Duque, Luisa; Körber, Martin; Bodmeier, Roland

    2018-03-01

    The objectives of this study were to assess the feasibility of hot melt extrusion (HME) for the preparation of PLGA-based ovalbumin-loaded implants as well as to characterize and improve protein release from the implants. Ovalbumin (OVA) was stable during extrusion, which was attributed to a protective effect of the biodegradable matrix. OVA release was characterized by a low burst, a slow release up to day 21, which plateaued thereafter resulting in incomplete release for all evaluated protein loadings. Release incompleteness was accompanied by the formation of an insoluble residual mass. Further characterization of this mass indicated that it consisted of non-covalent protein aggregates and polymer, where ovalbumin was ionically bound as the pH inside the degrading matrix decreased below the pI of the protein. Although higher protein release was obtained with the inclusion of weak bases because of their neutralizing effect, OVA aggregation and release incompleteness were not fully avoided. With the use of shellac, a well-known enteric and biocompatible polymer, as protective excipient, a distinct late release phase occurred and release completeness was increased to more than 75% cumulative release. Shellac apparently protected the protein against the acidic microclimate due to its low solubility at low pH. Protected OVA was thus released once the pH increased due to a declining PLGA-oligomer formation. The result was a triphasic release profile consisting of an initial burst, a slow diffusion phase over about 7 weeks, and an erosion-controlled dissolution phase over the next 3 weeks. An acid-labile protein like OVA was thus feasibly protected from interactions with PLGA and its degradation products, resulting in a controlled delivery of more than 85% of the original payload. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Preparation of polymethacrylic acid-grafted HEMA/PVP microspheres and preliminary study on basic protein adsorption.

    PubMed

    Gao, Baojiao; Hu, Hongyan; Guo, Jianfeng; Li, Yanbin

    2010-06-01

    The crosslinked copolymeric microspheres (HEMA/NVP) of N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) were prepared using inverse suspension polymerization method. Subsequently, the reaction of methacryloyl chloride with the hydroxyl groups on the surfaces of HEMA/NVP microspheres was performed, leading to the introduction of polymerisable double bonds onto the surfaces of microspheres HEMA/NVP. Afterward, methacrylic acid was allowed to be graft-polymerized on microspheres HEMA/NVP in the manner of "grafting from", resulting in the grafted microspheres PMAA-HEMA/NVP. The grafted microspheres PMAA-HEMA/NVP were fully characterized with several means. The graft-polymerization of MAA on microspheres HEMA/NVP was studied in detail, and the optimal reaction conditions were determined. Thereafter, the adsorption property of the grafted microspheres PMAA-HEMA/NVP for lysozyme as a basic protein model was preliminarily examined to explore the feasibility of removing deleterious basic protein such as density lipoprotein from blood. The experimental results indicate that the PMAA grafting degree on microspheres HEMA/NVP is limited because an enwinding polymer layer as a kinetic barrier on the surfaces of HEMA/NVP microspheres will be formed during the graft-polymerization, and block the graft-polymerization. In order to enhance PMAA grafting degree, reaction temperature, monomer concentration and the used amount of initiator should be effectively controlled. The experimental results also reveal that the grafted microspheres PMAA-HEMA/NVP possess very strong adsorption ability for lysozyme by right of strong electrostatic interaction. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Assessment of PLGA-PEG-PLGA Copolymer Hydrogel for Sustained Drug Delivery in the Ear

    PubMed Central

    Feng, Liang; Ward, Jonette A.; Li, S. Kevin; Tolia, Gaurav; Hao, Jinsong; Choo, Daniel I.

    2014-01-01

    Temperature sensitive copolymer systems were previously studied using modified diffusion cells in vitro for intratympanic injection, and the PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymer systems were found to provide sustained drug delivery for several days. The objectives of the present study were to assess the safety of PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymers in intratympanic injection in guinea pigs in vivo and to determine the effects of additives glycerol and poloxamer in PLGA-PEG-PLGA upon drug release in the diffusion cells in vitro for sustained inner ear drug delivery. In the experiments, the safety of PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymers to inner ear was evaluated using auditory brainstem response (ABR). The effects of the additives upon drug release from PLGA-PEG-PLGA hydrogel were investigated in the modified Franz diffusion cells in vitro with cidofovir as the model drug. The phase transition temperatures of the PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymers in the presence of the additives were also determined. In the ABR safety study, the PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymer alone did not affect hearing when delivered at 0.05-mL dose but caused hearing loss after 0.1-mL injection. In the drug release study, the incorporation of the bioadhesive additive, poloxamer, in the PLGA-PEG-PLGA formulations was found to decrease the rate of drug release whereas the increase in the concentration of the humectant additive, glycerol, provided the opposite effect. In summary, the PLGA-PEG-PLGA copolymer did not show toxicity to the inner ear at the 0.05-mL dose and could provide sustained release that could be controlled by using the additives for inner ear applications. PMID:24438444

  9. Sequential delivery of TAT-HSP27 and VEGF using microsphere/hydrogel hybrid systems for therapeutic angiogenesis.

    PubMed

    Shin, Seung-Hwa; Lee, Jangwook; Lim, Kwang Suk; Rhim, Taiyoun; Lee, Sang Kyung; Kim, Yong-Hee; Lee, Kuen Yong

    2013-02-28

    Ischemic disease is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates, and therapeutic angiogenesis via systemic or local delivery of protein drugs is one potential approach to treat the disease. In this study, we hypothesized that combined delivery of TAT-HSP27 (HSP27 fused with transcriptional activator) and VEGF could enhance the therapeutic efficacy in an ischemic mouse model, and that sequential release could be critical in therapeutic angiogenesis. Alginate hydrogels containing TAT-HSP27 as an anti-apoptotic agent were prepared, and porous PLGA microspheres loaded with VEGF as an angiogenic agent were incorporated into the hydrogels to prepare microsphere/hydrogel hybrid delivery systems. Sequential in vitro release of TAT-HSP27 and VEGF was achieved by the hybrid systems. TAT-HSP27 was depleted from alginate gels in 7 days, while VEGF was continually released for 28 days. The release rate of VEGF was attenuated by varying the porous structures of PLGA microspheres. Sequential delivery of TAT-HSP27 and VEGF was critical to protect against muscle degeneration and fibrosis, as well as to promote new blood vessel formation in the ischemic site of a mouse model. This approach to controlling the sequential release behaviors of multiple drugs could be useful in the design of novel drug delivery systems for therapeutic angiogenesis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Three-dimensional Macroscopic Scaffolds With a Gradient in Stiffness for Functional Regeneration of Interfacial Tissues

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Milind; Dormer, Nathan; Salash, Jean R.; Christian, Jordan M.; Moore, David S.; Berkland, Cory; Detamore, Michael S.

    2010-01-01

    A novel approach has been demonstrated to construct biocompatible, macroporous 3-D tissue engineering scaffolds containing a continuous macroscopic gradient in composition that yields a stiffness gradient along the axis of the scaffold. Polymeric microspheres, made of poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and composite microspheres encapsulating a higher stiffness nano-phase material (PLGA encapsulating CaCO3 or TiO2 nanoparticles) were used for the construction of microsphere-based scaffolds. Using controlled infusion of polymeric and composite microspheres, gradient scaffolds displaying an anisotropic macroscopic distribution of CaCO3/TiO2 were fabricated via an ethanol sintering technique. The controllable mechanical characteristics and biocompatible nature of these scaffolds warrants further investigation for interfacial tissue engineering applications. PMID:20336753

  11. A novel sustained-release formulation of recombinant human growth hormone and its pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and safety profiles.

    PubMed

    Wei, Yi; Wang, Yuxia; Kang, Aijun; Wang, Wei; Ho, Sa V; Gao, Junfeng; Ma, Guanghui; Su, Zhiguo

    2012-07-02

    An effective and safe formulation of sustained-release rhGH for two months using poly(monomethoxypolyethylene glycol-co-D,L-lactide) (mPEG-PLA, PELA) microspheres was developed to reduce the frequency of medication. The rhGH-loaded PELA microspheres with a narrow size distribution were successfully prepared by a double emulsion method combined with a premix membrane emulsification technique without any exogenous stabilizing excipients. The narrow size distribution of the microspheres would guarantee repeatable productivity and release behavior. Moreover, the amphiphilic PELA improved the bioactivity retention of protein drugs since it prevented protein contact with the oil/water interface and the hydrophobic network, and modulated diffusion of acidic degradation products from the carrier system. These PELA microspheres were compared in vivo with commercial rhGH solution, conventional poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres. Administration of rhGH-PELA could extend the duration of rhGH release (for up to 56 days) and increase area under the curve (AUC) compared to rhGH solution, PLA or PLGA microspheres in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. In addition, rhGH-PELA microspheres induced a greater response in total insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) than other rhGH formulations. With a hypophysectomized SD rat model, the pharmacological efficacy of rhGH-PELA microspheres was shown to be better than that from daily administration of rhGH solutions over 6 days based on body weight gain and width of the tibial growth plate. Histological examination of the injection sites indicated a significantly milder inflammatory response than that observed after injection of PLA and PLGA microspheres. Neither anti-rhGH antibodies nor the toxic effects on heart, liver and kidney were detectable after administration of rhGH-PELA microspheres in SD rats. These results suggest that rh

  12. HDL-mimetic PLGA nanoparticle to target atherosclerosis plaque macrophages.

    PubMed

    Sanchez-Gaytan, Brenda L; Fay, Francois; Lobatto, Mark E; Tang, Jun; Ouimet, Mireille; Kim, YongTae; van der Staay, Susanne E M; van Rijs, Sarian M; Priem, Bram; Zhang, Liangfang; Fisher, Edward A; Moore, Kathryn J; Langer, Robert; Fayad, Zahi A; Mulder, Willem J M

    2015-03-18

    High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a natural nanoparticle that exhibits an intrinsic affinity for atherosclerotic plaque macrophages. Its natural targeting capability as well as the option to incorporate lipophilic payloads, e.g., imaging or therapeutic components, in both the hydrophobic core and the phospholipid corona make the HDL platform an attractive nanocarrier. To realize controlled release properties, we developed a hybrid polymer/HDL nanoparticle composed of a lipid/apolipoprotein coating that encapsulates a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) core. This novel HDL-like nanoparticle (PLGA-HDL) displayed natural HDL characteristics, including preferential uptake by macrophages and a good cholesterol efflux capacity, combined with a typical PLGA nanoparticle slow release profile. In vivo studies carried out with an ApoE knockout mouse model of atherosclerosis showed clear accumulation of PLGA-HDL nanoparticles in atherosclerotic plaques, which colocalized with plaque macrophages. This biomimetic platform integrates the targeting capacity of HDL biomimetic nanoparticles with the characteristic versatility of PLGA-based nanocarriers.

  13. A PLGA-PEG-PLGA Thermosensitive Gel Enabling Sustained Delivery of Ropivacaine Hydrochloride for Postoperative Pain Relief.

    PubMed

    Fu, Xudong; Zeng, Huilin; Guo, Jiaping; Liu, Hong; Shi, Zhen; Chen, Huhai; Li, Dezong; Xie, Xiangyang; Kuang, Changchun

    2017-01-01

    Postoperative pain is a complex physiological response to disease and tissue injury. Moderate-to-severe pain typically occurs within 48 h after surgery. Amino amide local anesthetics are widely applied to manage postoperative pain, and they have high efficacy, a low risk for addiction and limited side effects. However, these anesthetics also have short half-lives, often necessitating continuous injection to obtain satisfactory pain relief. In the current work, we used a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-PLGA (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) temperature-sensitive gel to deliver a local anesthetic, ropivacaine hydrochloride (RP), to prolong its analgesic effect. We investigated the influence of polymer and drug concentration on gelation temperature and the in vitro drug release rate from the temperature-sensitive gel. RP-loaded PLGA-PEG-PLGA solution is a liquid at room temperature and forms a gel at temperatures slightly lower than body temperature. With regard to the gel's drug release rate, 37.5, 51.3 and 72.6% of RP was released at 12, 24 and 48 h, respectively. This in vitro drug release profile conformed to the Higuchi equation. To assess pain control efficacy when using the gel, we evaluated the mechanical paw withdrawal reflex threshold, thermal pain threshold and incision cumulative pain scores in a rat incisional model. The results showed that the anti-pain effect of a single injection of RP-loaded gel at the incision site lasted for 48 h, which is significantly longer than the effect produced by injection of RP solution alone. The use of RP-loaded thermosensitive gels could provide a promising method for managing postoperative pain.

  14. Preparation of magnetic polylactic acid microspheres and investigation of its releasing property for loading curcumin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Fengxia; Li, Xiaoli; Li, Bin

    2011-11-01

    In order to obtain a targeting drug carrier system, magnetic polylactic acid (PLA) microspheres loading curcumin were synthesized by the classical oil-in-water emulsion solvent-evaporation method. In the Fourier transform infrared spectra of microspheres, the present functional groups of PLA were all kept invariably. The morphology and size distribution of magnetic microspheres were observed with scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering, respectively. The results showed that the microspheres were regularly spherical and the surface was smooth with a diameter of 0.55-0.75 μm. Magnetic Fe 3O 4 was loaded in PLA microspheres and the content of magnetic particles was 12 wt% through thermogravimetric analysis. The magnetic property of prepared microspheres was measured by vibrating sample magnetometer. The results showed that the magnetic microspheres exhibited typical superparamagnetic behavior and the saturated magnetization was 14.38 emu/g. Through analysis of differential scanning calorimetry, the curcumin was in an amorphous state in the magnetic microspheres. The drug loading, encapsulation efficiency and releasing properties of curcumin in vitro were also investigated by ultraviolet-visible spectrum analysis. The results showed that the drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were 8.0% and 24.2%, respectively. And curcumin was obviously slowly released because the cumulative release percentage of magnetic microspheres in the phosphate buffer (pH=7.4) solution was only 49.01% in 72 h, and the basic release of curcumin finished in 120 h.

  15. Treatment of Francisella infections via PLGA- and lipid-based nanoparticle delivery of antibiotics in a zebrafish model.

    PubMed

    Ulanova, Lilia S; Pinheiro, Marina; Vibe, Carina; Nunes, Claudia; Misaghian, Dorna; Wilson, Steven; Zhu, Kaizheng; Fenaroli, Federico; Winther-Larsen, Hanne C; Reis, Salette; Griffiths, Gareth

    2017-06-19

    We tested the efficiency of 2 different antibiotics, rifampicin and oxolinic acid, against an established infection caused by fish pathogen Francisella noatunensis ssp. orientalis (F.n.o.) in zebrafish. The drugs were tested in the free form as well as encapsulated into biodegradable nanoparticles, either polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles or nanostructured lipid carriers. The most promising therapies were PLGA-rifampicin nanoparticles and free oxolinic acid; the PLGA nanoparticles significantly delayed embryo mortality while free oxolinic acid prevented it. Encapsulation of rifampicin in both PLGA and nanostructured lipid carriers enhanced its efficiency against F.n.o. infection relative to the free drug. We propose that the zebrafish model is a robust, rapid system for initial testing of different treatments of bacterial diseases important for aquaculture.

  16. Emulsion Electrospinning as an Approach to Fabricate PLGA/Chitosan Nanofibers for Biomedical Applications

    PubMed Central

    Tavanai, Hossein; Hilborn, Jöns; Donzel-Gargand, Olivier; Leifer, Klaus; Arpanaei, Ayyoob

    2014-01-01

    Novel nanofibers from blends of polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and chitosan have been produced through an emulsion electrospinning process. The spinning solution employed polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the emulsifier. PVA was extracted from the electrospun nanofibers, resulting in a final scaffold consisting of a blend of PLGA and chitosan. The fraction of chitosan in the final electrospun mat was adjusted from 0 to 33%. Analyses by scanning and transmission electron microscopy show uniform nanofibers with homogenous distribution of PLGA and chitosan in their cross section. Infrared spectroscopy verifies that electrospun mats contain both PLGA and chitosan. Moreover, contact angle measurements show that the electrospun PLGA/chitosan mats are more hydrophilic than electrospun mats of pure PLGA. Tensile strengths of 4.94 MPa and 4.21 MPa for PLGA/chitosan in dry and wet conditions, respectively, illustrate that the polyblend mats of PLGA/chitosan are strong enough for many biomedical applications. Cell culture studies suggest that PLGA/chitosan nanofibers promote fibroblast attachment and proliferation compared to PLGA membranes. It can be assumed that the nanofibrous composite scaffold of PLGA/chitosan could be potentially used for skin tissue reconstruction. PMID:24689041

  17. A 12-week intramuscular toxicity study of risperidone-loaded microspheres in Beagle dogs.

    PubMed

    Tian, J; Wang, W; Ye, L; Cen, X; Guan, X; Zhang, J; Yu, P; Du, G; Liu, W; Li, Y

    2014-05-01

    Long-acting formulations of antipsychotics are important treatment options to increase the compliance of schizophrenic patients. Risperidone, a 5-HT2 and dopaminergic D2 receptor antagonist, was developed as long-acting sustained-release microspheres with poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) as a drug carrier for the treatment of schizophrenia. In the present study, the main objective is to determine the nonclinical safety profile of risperidone-loaded microspheres (RM) in Beagle dogs after intramuscular administration for 3 months, once in 2 weeks, followed by 8-week recovery phase. No animal death was found and no special toxicological findings were observed. The findings, such as hypoactivity, ptosis, increased heart rate, and elevated serum and pituitary prolactin levels, were observed and related to the pharmacological effects of risperidone. The changes in the reproductive system (uterus, ovary, vagina, cervix, and mammary gland) were considered secondary to the prolactin elevation, and the congestion of spleen was related to risperidone. The foreign body granulomas at injection sites might be caused by PLGA. At the end of recovery phase, the above changes mostly recovered to normal, and on administering 3 mg/kg dose level once in 2 weeks on Beagle dogs showed no observed adverse effect. Taken together, RM had exhibited the acceptable safety.

  18. Setting accelerated dissolution test for PLGA microspheres containing peptide, investigation of critical parameters affecting drug release rate and mechanism.

    PubMed

    Tomic, I; Vidis-Millward, A; Mueller-Zsigmondy, M; Cardot, J-M

    2016-05-30

    The objective of this study was development of accelerated in vitro release method for peptide loaded PLGA microspheres using flow-through apparatus and assessment of the effect of dissolution parameters (pH, temperature, medium composition) on drug release rate and mechanism. Accelerated release conditions were set as pH 2 and 45°C, in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) 0.02M. When the pH was changed from 2 to 4, diffusion controlled phases (burst and lag) were not affected, while release rate during erosion phase decreased two-fold due to slower ester bonds hydrolyses. Decreasing temperature from 45°C to 40°C, release rate showed three-fold deceleration without significant change in release mechanism. Effect of medium composition on drug release was tested in PBS 0.01M (200 mOsm/kg) and PBS 0.01M with glucose (380 mOsm/kg). Buffer concentration significantly affected drug release rate and mechanism due to the change in osmotic pressure, while ionic strength did not have any effect on peptide release. Furthermore, dialysis sac and sample-and-separate techniques were used, in order to evaluate significance of dissolution technique choice on the release process. After fitting obtained data to different mathematical models, flow-through method was confirmed as the most appropriate for accelerated in vitro dissolution testing for a given formulation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Development and evaluation of a novel biodegradable sustained release microsphere formulation of paclitaxel intended to treat breast cancer

    PubMed Central

    Shiny, Jacob; Ramchander, Thadkapally; Goverdhan, Puchchakayala; Habibuddin, Mohammad; Aukunuru, Jithan Venkata

    2013-01-01

    Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a novel 1 month depot paclitaxel (PTX) microspheres that give a sustained and complete drug release. Materials and Methods: PTX loaded microspheres were prepared by o/w emulsion solvent evaporation technique using the blends of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) 75/25, polycaprolactone 14,000 and polycaprolactone 80,000. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to investigate drug excipient compatibility. Compatible blends were used to prepare F1-F6 microspheres, the process was characterised and the optimum formulation was selected based on the release. Optimised formulation was characterised for solid state of the drug using the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies, surface morphology using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in vivo drug release, in vitro in vivo correlation (IVIVC) and anticancer activity. Anticancer activity of release medium was determined using the cell viability assay in Michigan Cancer Foundation (MCF-7) cell line. Results: Blend of PLGA with polycaprolactone (Mwt 14,000) at a ratio of 1:1 (F5) resulted in complete release of the drug in a time frame of 30 days. F5 was considered as the optimised formulation. Incomplete release of the drug resulted from other formulations. The surface of the optimised formulation was smooth and the drug changed its solid state upon fabrication. The formulation also resulted in 1-month drug release in vivo. The released drug from F5 demonstrated anticancer activity for 1-month. Cell viability was reduced drastically with the release medium from F5 formulation. A 100% IVIVC was obtained with F5 formulation suggesting the authenticity of in vitro release, in vivo release and the use of the formulation in breast cancer. Conclusions: From our study, it was concluded that with careful selection of different polymers and their combinations, PTX 1 month depot formulation with 100% drug release and that can be used in breast cancer was

  20. Preparation and characterization of bee venom-loaded PLGA particles for sustained release.

    PubMed

    Park, Min-Ho; Jun, Hye-Suk; Jeon, Jong-Woon; Park, Jin-Kyu; Lee, Bong-Joo; Suh, Guk-Hyun; Park, Jeong-Sook; Cho, Cheong-Weon

    2016-12-14

    Bee venom-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles were prepared by double emulsion-solvent evaporation, and characterized for a sustained-release system. Factors such as the type of organic solvent, the amount of bee venom and PLGA, the type of PLGA, the type of polyvinyl alcohol, and the emulsification method were considered. Physicochemical properties, including the encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, particle size, zeta-potential and surface morphology were examined by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The size of the bee venom-loaded PLGA particles was 500 nm (measured using sonication). Zeta-potentials of the bee venom-loaded PLGA particles were negative owing to the PLGA. FT-IR results demonstrated that the bee venom was completely encapsulated in the PLGA particles, indicated by the disappearance of the amine and amide peaks. In addition, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis indicated that the bee venom in the bee venom-loaded PLGA particles was intact. In vitro release of the bee venom from the bee venom-loaded PLGA particles showed a sustained-release profile over 1 month. Bee venom-loaded PLGA particles can help improve patients' quality of life by reducing the number of injections required.

  1. Current advances in research and clinical applications of PLGA-based nanotechnology

    PubMed Central

    Lü, Jian-Ming; Wang, Xinwen; Marin-Muller, Christian; Wang, Hao; Lin, Peter H; Yao, Qizhi; Chen, Changyi

    2009-01-01

    Co-polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanotechnology has been developed for many years and has been approved by the US FDA for the use of drug delivery, diagnostics and other applications of clinical and basic science research, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, vaccine and tissue engineering. This article presents the more recent successes of applying PLGA-based nanotechnologies and tools in these medicine-related applications. It focuses on the possible mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment effects of PLGA preparations and devices. This updated information will benefit to both new and established research scientists and clinical physicians who are interested in the development and application of PLGA nanotechnology as new therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for many diseases. PMID:19435455

  2. Bone augmentation using a highly porous PLGA/β-TCP scaffold containing fibroblast growth factor-2.

    PubMed

    Yoshida, T; Miyaji, H; Otani, K; Inoue, K; Nakane, K; Nishimura, H; Ibara, A; Shimada, A; Ogawa, K; Nishida, E; Sugaya, T; Sun, L; Fugetsu, B; Kawanami, M

    2015-04-01

    Beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), a bio-absorbable ceramic, facilitates bone conductivity. We constructed a highly porous three-dimensional scaffold, using β-TCP, for bone tissue engineering and coated it with co-poly lactic acid/glycolic acid (PLGA) to improve the mechanical strength and biological performance. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of implantation of the PLGA/β-TCP scaffold loaded with fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) on bone augmentation. The β-TCP scaffold was fabricated by the replica method using polyurethane foam, then coated with PLGA. The PLGA/β-TCP scaffold was characterized by scanning electron miscroscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction, compressive testing, cell culture and a subcutaneous implant test. Subsequently, a bone-forming test was performed using 52 rats. The β-TCP scaffold, PLGA-coated scaffold, and β-TCP and PLGA-coated scaffolds loaded with FGF-2, were implanted into rat cranial bone. Histological observations were made at 10 and 35 d postsurgery. SEM and TEM observations showed a thin PLGA layer on the β-TCP particles after coating. High porosity (> 90%) of the scaffold was exhibited after PLGA coating, and the compressive strength of the PLGA/β-TCP scaffold was six-fold greater than that of the noncoated scaffold. Good biocompatibility of the PLGA/β-TCP scaffold was found in the culture and implant tests. Histological samples obtained following implantation of PLGA/β-TCP scaffold loaded with FGF-2 showed significant bone augmentation. The PLGA coating improved the mechanical strength of β-TCP scaffolds while maintaining high porosity and tissue compatibility. PLGA/β-TCP scaffolds, in combination with FGF-2, are bioeffective for bone augmentation. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  3. Production of GMP-grade radioactive holmium loaded poly(L-lactic acid) microspheres for clinical application.

    PubMed

    Zielhuis, S W; Nijsen, J F W; de Roos, R; Krijger, G C; van Rijk, P P; Hennink, W E; van het Schip, A D

    2006-03-27

    Radioactive holmium-166 loaded poly(L-lactic acid) microspheres are promising systems for the treatment of liver malignancies. The microspheres are loaded with holmium acetylacetonate (HoAcAc) and prepared by a solvent evaporation method. After preparation, the microspheres (Ho-PLLA-MS) are activated by neutron irradiation in a nuclear reactor. In this paper, the aspects of the production of a (relatively) large-scale GMP batch (4 g, suitable for treatment of 5-10 patients) of Ho-PLLA-MS are described. The critical steps of the Ho-PLLA-MS production process (sieving procedure, temperature control during evaporation and raw materials) were considered and the pharmaceutical quality of the microspheres was evaluated. The pharmaceutical characteristics (residual solvents, possible bacterial contaminations and endotoxins) of the produced Ho-PLLA-MS batches were in compliance with the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia. Moreover, neutron irradiated Ho-PLLA-MS retained their morphological integrity and the holmium remained stably associated with the microspheres; it was observed that after 270h (10 times the half-life of Ho-166) only 0.3+/-0.1% of the loading was released from the microspheres in an aqueous solution. In conclusion, Ho-PLLA-MS which are produced as described in this paper, can be clinically applied, with respect to their pharmaceutical quality.

  4. An investigation into the mechanisms of drug release from taste-masking fatty acid microspheres.

    PubMed

    Qi, Sheng; Deutsch, David; Craig, Duncan Q M

    2008-09-01

    Fatty acid microspheres based on stearic and palmitic acids are known to form effective taste masking systems, although the mechanisms by which the drug is preferentially released in the lower gastrointestinal tract are not known. The objective of the present study was to identify the mechanisms involved, with a particular view to clarify the role of acid soap formation in the dissolution process. Microspheres were prepared by a spray chilling process. Using benzoic acid as a model drug and an alkaline dissolution medium, a faster drug release was observed in the mixed fatty acid formulation (50:50 stearic:palmitic acid (w/w)) compared to the single fatty acid component systems. Thermal and powder X-ray diffraction studies indicated a greater degree of acid soap formation for the mixed formulation in alkaline media compared to the single fatty acid systems. Particle size and porosity studies indicated a modest reduction in size for the mixed systems and an increase in porosity on immersion in the dissolution medium. It is proposed that the mixed fatty acid system form a mixed crystal system which in turn facilitates interaction with the dissolution medium, thereby leading to a greater propensity for acid soap formation which in turn forms a permeable liquid crystalline phase through which the drug may diffuse. The role of dissolution of palmitic acid into the dissolution medium is also discussed as a secondary mechanism.

  5. Anti-Fas conjugated hyaluronic acid microsphere gels for neural stem cell delivery.

    PubMed

    Shendi, Dalia; Albrecht, Dirk R; Jain, Anjana

    2017-02-01

    Central nervous system (CNS) injuries and diseases result in neuronal damage and loss of function. Transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) has been shown to improve locomotor function after transplantation. However, due to the immune and inflammatory response at the injury site, the survival rate of the engrafted cells is low. Engrafted cell viability has been shown to increase when transplanted within a hydrogel. Hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels have natural anti-inflammatory properties and the backbone can be modified to introduce bioactive agents, such as anti-Fas, which we have previously shown to promote NSC survival while suppressing immune cell activity in bulk hydrogels in vitro. Although bulk HA hydrogels have shown to promote stem cell survival, microsphere gels for NSC encapsulation and delivery may have additional advantages. In this study, a flow-focusing microfluidic device was used to fabricate either vinyl sulfone-modified HA (VS-HA) or anti-Fas-conjugated HA (anti-Fas HA) microsphere gels encapsulated with NSCs. The majority of encapsulated NSCs remained viable for at least 24 h in the VS-HA and anti-Fas HA microsphere gels. Moreover, T-cells cultured in suspension with the anti-Fas HA microsphere gels had reduced viability after contact with the microsphere gels compared to the media control and soluble anti-Fas conditions. This approach can be adapted to encapsulate various cell types for therapeutic strategies in other physiological systems in order to increase survival by reducing the immune response. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 608-618, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Engineering of lipid-coated PLGA nanoparticles with a tunable payload of diagnostically active nanocrystals for medical imaging.

    PubMed

    Mieszawska, Aneta J; Gianella, Anita; Cormode, David P; Zhao, Yiming; Meijerink, Andries; Langer, Robert; Farokhzad, Omid C; Fayad, Zahi A; Mulder, Willem J M

    2012-06-14

    Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) based nanoparticles are biocompatible and biodegradable and therefore have been extensively investigated as therapeutic carriers. Here, we engineered diagnostically active PLGA nanoparticles that incorporate high payloads of nanocrystals into their core for tunable bioimaging features. We accomplished this through esterification reactions of PLGA to generate polymers modified with nanocrystals. The PLGA nanoparticles formed from modified PLGA polymers that were functionalized with either gold nanocrystals or quantum dots exhibited favorable features for computed tomography and optical imaging, respectively.

  7. Improved insulin loading in poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles upon self-assembly with lipids.

    PubMed

    García-Díaz, María; Foged, Camilla; Nielsen, Hanne Mørck

    2015-03-30

    Polymeric nanoparticles are widely investigated as drug delivery systems for oral administration. However, the hydrophobic nature of many polymers hampers effective loading of the particles with hydrophilic macromolecules such as insulin. Thus, the aim of this work was to improve the loading of insulin into poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles by pre-assembly with amphiphilic lipids. Insulin was complexed with soybean phosphatidylcholine or sodium caprate by self-assembly and subsequently loaded into PLGA nanoparticles by using the double emulsion-solvent evaporation technique. The nanoparticles were characterized in terms of size, zeta potential, insulin encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity. Upon pre-assembly with lipids, there was an increased distribution of insulin into the organic phase of the emulsion, eventually resulting in significantly enhanced encapsulation efficiencies (90% as compared to 24% in the absence of lipids). Importantly, the insulin loading capacity was increased up to 20% by using the lipid-insulin complexes. The results further showed that a main fraction of the lipid was incorporated into the nanoparticles and remained associated to the polymer during release studies in buffers, whereas insulin was released in a non-complexed form as a burst of approximately 80% of the loaded insulin. In conclusion, the protein load in PLGA nanoparticles can be significantly increased by employing self-assembled protein-lipid complexes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Micro/Nano Multilayered Scaffolds of PLGA and Collagen by Alternately Electrospinning for Bone Tissue Engineering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kwak, Sanghwa; Haider, Adnan; Gupta, Kailash Chandra; Kim, Sukyoung; Kang, Inn-Kyu

    2016-07-01

    The dual extrusion electrospinning technique was used to fabricate multilayered 3D scaffolds by stacking microfibrous meshes of poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) in alternate fashion to micro/nano mixed fibrous meshes of PLGA and collagen. To fabricate the multilayered scaffold, 35 wt% solution of PLGA in THF-DMF binary solvent (3:1) and 5 wt% solution of collagen in hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) with and without hydroxyapatite nanorods (nHA) were used. The dual and individual electrospinning of PLGA and collagen were carried out at flow rates of 1.0 and 0.5 mL/h, respectively, at an applied voltage of 20 kV. The density of collagen fibers in multilayered scaffolds has controlled the adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. The homogeneous dispersion of glutamic acid-modified hydroxyapatite nanorods (nHA-GA) in collagen solution has improved the osteogenic properties of fabricated multilayered scaffolds. The fabricated multilayered scaffolds were characterized using FT-IR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) was used to evaluate the adhesion and spreads of MC3T3-E1 cells on multilayered scaffolds. The activity of MC3T3-E1 cells on the multilayered scaffolds was evaluated by applying MTT, alkaline phosphatase, Alizarin Red, von Kossa, and cytoskeleton F-actin assaying protocols. The micro/nano fibrous PLGA-Col-HA scaffolds were found to be highly bioactive in comparison to pristine microfibrous PLGA and micro/nano mixed fibrous PLGA and Col scaffolds.

  9. Raloxifene microsphere-embedded collagen/chitosan/β-tricalcium phosphate scaffold for effective bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ming-Lei; Cheng, Ji; Xiao, Ye-Chen; Yin, Ruo-Feng; Feng, Xu

    2017-02-25

    Engineering novel scaffolds that can mimic the functional extracellular matrix (ECM) would be a great achievement in bone tissue engineering. This paper reports the fabrication of novel collagen/chitosan/β-tricalcium phosphate (CCTP) based tissue engineering scaffold. In order to improve the regeneration ability of scaffold, we have embedded raloxifene (RLX)-loaded PLGA microsphere in the CCTP scaffold. The average pore of scaffold was in the range of 150-200μm with ideal mechanical strength and swelling/degradation characteristics. The release rate of RLX from the microsphere (MS) embedded scaffold was gradual and controlled. Also a significantly enhanced cell proliferation was observed in RLX-MS exposed cell group suggesting that microsphere/scaffold could be an ideal biomaterial for bone tissue engineering. Specifically, RLX-MS showed a significantly higher Alizarin red staining indicating the higher mineralization capacity of this group. Furthermore, a high alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity for RLX-MS exposed group after 15days incubation indicates the bone regeneration capacity of MC3T3-E1 cells. Overall, present study showed that RLX-loaded microsphere embedded scaffold has the promising potential for bone tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  10. PLGA nanoparticles loaded with host defense peptide LL37 promote wound healing.

    PubMed

    Chereddy, Kiran Kumar; Her, Charles-Henry; Comune, Michela; Moia, Claudia; Lopes, Alessandra; Porporato, Paolo E; Vanacker, Julie; Lam, Martin C; Steinstraesser, Lars; Sonveaux, Pierre; Zhu, Huijun; Ferreira, Lino S; Vandermeulen, Gaëlle; Préat, Véronique

    2014-11-28

    Wound treatment remains one of the most prevalent and economically burdensome healthcare issues in the world. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) supplies lactate that accelerates neovascularization and promotes wound healing. LL37 is an endogenous human host defense peptide that modulates wound healing and angiogenesis and fights infection. Hence, we hypothesized that the administration of LL37 encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles (PLGA-LL37 NP) promotes wound closure due to the sustained release of both LL37 and lactate. In full thickness excisional wounds, the treatment with PLGA-LL37 NP significantly accelerated wound healing compared to PLGA or LL37 administration alone. PLGA-LL37 NP-treated wounds displayed advanced granulation tissue formation by significant higher collagen deposition, re-epithelialized and neovascularized composition. PLGA-LL37 NP improved angiogenesis, significantly up-regulated IL-6 and VEGFa expression, and modulated the inflammatory wound response. In vitro, PLGA-LL37 NP induced enhanced cell migration but had no effect on the metabolism and proliferation of keratinocytes. It displayed antimicrobial activity on Escherichia coli. In conclusion, we developed a biodegradable drug delivery system that accelerated healing processes due to the combined effects of lactate and LL37 released from the nanoparticles. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Antiplasmodial Activity and Toxicological Assessment of Curcumin PLGA-Encapsulated Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Busari, Zulaikha A.; Dauda, Kabiru A.; Morenikeji, Olajumoke A.; Afolayan, Funmilayo; Oyeyemi, Oyetunde T.; Meena, Jairam; Sahu, Debasis; Panda, Amulya K.

    2017-01-01

    Curcumin is a polyphenolic pigment isolated from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa (turmeric), a medicinal plant widely used in the ancient Indian and Chinese medicine. The antiplasmodial activity of curcumin is often hampered by its fast metabolism and poor water solubility, thus its incorporation into a delivery system could circumvent this problem. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo antiplasmodial activity and the toxicity assessment of curcumin incorporated into poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles. Curcumin was loaded with poly (D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) using solvent evaporation from oil-in-water single emulsion method. The nanoparticles were characterized and evaluated in vivo for antimalarial activities using Peter’s 4-day suppressive protocol in mice model. Hematological and hepatic toxicity assays were performed on whole blood and plasma, respectively. In vivo anti-parasitic test and toxicity assays for free and encapsulated drug were performed at 5 and 10 mg/kg. In vitro cytotoxicity of free and PLGA encapsulated curcumin (Cur-PLGA) to RAW 264.7 cell line was also determined at varying concentrations (1000–7.8 μg/mL). The size and entrapment efficiency of the nanoparticulate drug formulated was 291.2 ± 82.1 nm and 21.8 ± 0.4 respectively. The percentage parasite suppression (56.8%) at 5 mg/kg was significantly higher than in free drug (40.5%) of similar concentration (p < 0.05) but not at 10 mg/kg (49.5%) at 4-day post-treatment. There were no significant differences in most of the recorded blood parameters in free curcumin and PLGA encapsulated nanoparticulate form (p > 0.05) except in lymphocytes which were significantly higher in Cur-PLGA compared to the free drug (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in hepatotoxic biomarkers; aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase concentrations in various treatment groups (p > 0.05). At higher concentrations (1000 and 500 μg/mL), Cur-PLGA entrapped

  12. Current Strategies in the Modification of PLGA-based Gene Delivery System.

    PubMed

    Ramezani, Mohammad; Ebrahimian, Mahboubeh; Hashemi, Maryam

    2017-01-01

    Successful gene therapy has been limited by safe and efficient delivery of nucleic acid to the target cells. Poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) are able to deliver drugs and genes efficiently. This formulation has several advantages in comparison with other formulations including improvement in solubility, stability, controlling of degradation and release of the entrapped agents. For application of PLGA as a gene carrier, there exist many challenges. PLGA NPs could protect the encapsulated DNA from in vivo degradation but the DNA release is slow and the negative charge acts as a barrier to DNA incorporation and delivery. Also, during the preparation process, DNA could be exposed to high shear stress and organic solvents which could result in its inactivation. Moreover, PLGA NPs could be modified with different agents to reduce cytotoxicity, to enhance delivery efficiency and to target specific tissues/cells. This review summarizes different methods used for the preparation of PLGA NPs as gene carriers and recent strategies for the modification of PLGA particles applied in gene therapy. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  13. Functionalized antibiofilm thin coatings based on PLA-PVA microspheres loaded with usnic acid natural compounds fabricated by MAPLE

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grumezescu, Valentina; Socol, Gabriel; Grumezescu, Alexandru Mihai; Holban, Alina Maria; Ficai, Anton; Truşcǎ, Roxana; Bleotu, Coralia; Balaure, Paul Cǎtǎlin; Cristescu, Rodica; Chifiriuc, Mariana Carmen

    2014-05-01

    We report the fabrication of thin coatings of PLA-PVA microspheres loaded with usnic acid by matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) onto Ti substrate. The obtained coatings have been physico-chemically characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and infrared microscopy (IRM). In vitro biological assays have been performed in order to evaluate the influence of fabricated microsphere thin coatings on the Staphylococcus aureus biofilm development as well as their biocompatibility. SEM micrographs have revealed a uniform morphology of thin coatings, while IRM investigations have proved both the homogeneity and functional groups integrity of prepared thin coatings. The obtained microsphere-based thin coatings have proved to be efficient vehicles for usnic acid natural compound with antibiofilm activity, as demonstrated by the inhibitory activity on S. aureus mature biofilm development, opening new perspectives for the prevention and therapy associated to biofilm related infections.

  14. New Perspective in the Formulation and Characterization of Didodecyldimethylammonium Bromide (DMAB) Stabilized Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA) Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Gossmann, Rebecca; Langer, Klaus; Mulac, Dennis

    2015-01-01

    Over the last few decades the establishment of nanoparticles as suitable drug carriers with the transport of drugs across biological barriers such as the gastrointestinal barrier moved into the focus of many research groups. Besides drug transport such carrier systems are well suited for the protection of drugs against enzymatic and chemical degradation. The preparation of biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticles based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is intensively described in literature, while especially nanoparticles with cationic properties show a promising increased cellular uptake. This is due to the electrostatic interaction between the cationic surface and the negatively charged lipid membrane of the cells. Even though several studies achieved the successful preparation of nanoparticles stabilized with the cationic surfactants such as didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (DMAB), in most cases insufficient attention was paid to a precise analytical characterization of the nanoparticle system. The aim of the present work was to overcome this deficit by presenting a new perspective in the formulation and characterization of DMAB-stabilized PLGA nanoparticles. Therefore these nanoparticles were carefully examined with regard to particle diameter, zeta potential, the effect of variation in stabilizer concentration, residual DMAB content, and electrolyte stability. Without any steric stabilization, the DMAB-modified nanoparticles were sensitive to typical electrolyte concentrations of biological environments due to compression of the electrical double layer in conjunction with a decrease in zeta potential. To handle this problem, the present study proposed two modifications to enable electrolyte stability. Both polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified DMAB-PLGA-nanoparticles were stable during electrolyte addition. Furthermore, in contrast to unmodified DMAB-PLGA-nanoparticles and free DMAB, such modifications led to a lower

  15. New Perspective in the Formulation and Characterization of Didodecyldimethylammonium Bromide (DMAB) Stabilized Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA) Nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Gossmann, Rebecca; Langer, Klaus; Mulac, Dennis

    2015-01-01

    Over the last few decades the establishment of nanoparticles as suitable drug carriers with the transport of drugs across biological barriers such as the gastrointestinal barrier moved into the focus of many research groups. Besides drug transport such carrier systems are well suited for the protection of drugs against enzymatic and chemical degradation. The preparation of biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticles based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is intensively described in literature, while especially nanoparticles with cationic properties show a promising increased cellular uptake. This is due to the electrostatic interaction between the cationic surface and the negatively charged lipid membrane of the cells. Even though several studies achieved the successful preparation of nanoparticles stabilized with the cationic surfactants such as didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (DMAB), in most cases insufficient attention was paid to a precise analytical characterization of the nanoparticle system. The aim of the present work was to overcome this deficit by presenting a new perspective in the formulation and characterization of DMAB-stabilized PLGA nanoparticles. Therefore these nanoparticles were carefully examined with regard to particle diameter, zeta potential, the effect of variation in stabilizer concentration, residual DMAB content, and electrolyte stability. Without any steric stabilization, the DMAB-modified nanoparticles were sensitive to typical electrolyte concentrations of biological environments due to compression of the electrical double layer in conjunction with a decrease in zeta potential. To handle this problem, the present study proposed two modifications to enable electrolyte stability. Both polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified DMAB-PLGA-nanoparticles were stable during electrolyte addition. Furthermore, in contrast to unmodified DMAB-PLGA-nanoparticles and free DMAB, such modifications led to a lower

  16. Magnetically directed poly(lactic acid) [sup 90]Y-microspheres: Novel agents for targeted intracavitary radiotherapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Haefeli, U.O.; Sweeney, S.M.; Beresford, B.A.

    1994-08-01

    High energy [beta]-emitting radioisotopes like Yttrium-90 have a radiotoxic range of about one centimeter. For cancer treatment they must be brought near the tumor cells and kept there for as long as they are radioactive. The authors developed as carriers for the ionic form of [sup 90]Y a matrix-type polymeric drug delivery system, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) microspheres. This radiopharmaceutical could be selectively delivered to the target site after incorporating 10% Fe[sub 3]O[sub 4] which made the magnetic microspheres (MMS) responsive to an external magnetic field. Furthermore, MMS are biodegradable and slowly hydrolyze into physiologic lactic acid after the radioactivity ismore » completely decayed. Previously prepared 10--40 [mu]m MMS were radiochemically loaded to high specific activity with [sup 90]Y at a pH of 5.7. Stability studies showed that approximately 95% of added [sup 90]Y is retained within the PLA matrix after 28 days (> 10 half-lives) at 37 C in serum, and electron microscopy showed that the microspheres retained their characteristic morphologic appearance for the same time period. Cytotoxicity studies with SK-N-SH neuroblastoma cells growing in monolayer showed that the radiocytotoxicity of the microspheres could be directed magnetically to either kill or spare specific cell populations, thus making them of great interest for targeted intracavitary tumor therapy. The authors are currently optimizing this system for use in the treatment of neoplastic meningitis.« less

  17. The comparison of different daidzein-PLGA nanoparticles in increasing its oral bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Ma, Yiran; Zhao, Xinyi; Li, Jian; Shen, Qi

    2012-01-01

    The aim of this research was to increase the oral bioavailability of daidzein by the formulations of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with daidzein. Amongst the various traditional and novel techniques of preparing daidzein-loaded PLGA nanoparticles, daidzein-loaded phospholipid complexes PLGA nanoparticles and daidzein-loaded cyclodextrin inclusion complexes PLGA nanoparticles were selected. The average drug entrapment efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential of daidzein-loaded phospholipid complexes PLGA nanoparticles and daidzein-loaded cyclodextrin inclusion complexes PLGA nanoparticles were 81.9% ± 5%, 309.2 ± 14.0 nm, -32.14 ± 2.53 mV and 83.2% ± 7.2%, 323.2 ± 4.8 nm, -18.73 ± 1.68 mV, respectively. The morphological characterization of nanoparticles was observed with scanning electron microscopy by stereological method and the physicochemical state of nanoparticles was valued by differential scanning calorimetry. The in vitro drug-release profile of both nanoparticle formulations fitted the Weibull dynamic equation. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that after oral administration of daidzein-loaded phospholipid complexes PLGA nanoparticles and daidzein-loaded cyclodextrin inclusion complexes PLGA nanoparticles to rats at a dose of 10 mg/kg, relative bioavailability was enhanced about 5.57- and 8.85-fold, respectively, compared to daidzein suspension as control. These results describe an effective strategy for oral delivery of daidzein-loaded PLGA nanoparticles and might provide a fresh approach to enhancing the bioavailability of drugs with poor lipophilic and poor hydrophilic properties.

  18. The comparison of different daidzein-PLGA nanoparticles in increasing its oral bioavailability

    PubMed Central

    Ma, Yiran; Zhao, Xinyi; Li, Jian; Shen, Qi

    2012-01-01

    The aim of this research was to increase the oral bioavailability of daidzein by the formulations of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with daidzein. Amongst the various traditional and novel techniques of preparing daidzein-loaded PLGA nanoparticles, daidzein-loaded phospholipid complexes PLGA nanoparticles and daidzein-loaded cyclodextrin inclusion complexes PLGA nanoparticles were selected. The average drug entrapment efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential of daidzein-loaded phospholipid complexes PLGA nanoparticles and daidzein-loaded cyclodextrin inclusion complexes PLGA nanoparticles were 81.9% ± 5%, 309.2 ± 14.0 nm, −32.14 ± 2.53 mV and 83.2% ± 7.2%, 323.2 ± 4.8 nm, −18.73 ± 1.68 mV, respectively. The morphological characterization of nanoparticles was observed with scanning electron microscopy by stereological method and the physicochemical state of nanoparticles was valued by differential scanning calorimetry. The in vitro drug-release profile of both nanoparticle formulations fitted the Weibull dynamic equation. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that after oral administration of daidzein-loaded phospholipid complexes PLGA nanoparticles and daidzein-loaded cyclodextrin inclusion complexes PLGA nanoparticles to rats at a dose of 10 mg/kg, relative bioavailability was enhanced about 5.57- and 8.85-fold, respectively, compared to daidzein suspension as control. These results describe an effective strategy for oral delivery of daidzein-loaded PLGA nanoparticles and might provide a fresh approach to enhancing the bioavailability of drugs with poor lipophilic and poor hydrophilic properties. PMID:22346351

  19. Investigation of antitumor activities of trastuzumab delivered by PLGA nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Hoti, Ada; Iovene, Pietro Alessandro; Natalello, Antonino; Avvakumova, Svetlana; Colombo, Miriam

    2018-01-01

    Background We report the development of an efficient antibody delivery system for the incorporation of trastuzumab (TZ) into poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles (PLGA NPs). The aim of the work was to overcome the current limitations in the clinical use of therapeutic antibodies, including immunogenicity, poor pharmacokinetics, low tumor penetration and safety issues. Materials and methods Trastuzumab-loaded PLGA NPs (PLGA-TZ) were synthesized according to a double emulsion method. The same protocol was used to produce control batches of nonspecific IgG-loaded NPs and empty PLGA NPs. After release of TZ from PLGA NPs, the effects on the main biological activities of the antibody were evaluated on SKBR3 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 [HER2]-positive breast cancer cell line), including specific binding to HER2, phosphorylation of HER2 (Y1248), degradation of HER2 protein and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) mechanism. In addition, an MTT assay was performed for treating SKBR3 cells with PLGA NPs loaded with TZ and doxorubicin to evaluate the cytotoxic activity of the combined treatment. Results and discussion TZ was gradually released in a prolonged way over 30 days. The physical characterization performed with circular dichroism, Fourier transform infrared and fluorescence spectroscopy of TZ after release demonstrated that no structural alterations occurred compared to the native antibody. In vitro experiments using SKBR3 cells showed that TZ released from PLGA NPs maintained the same biological activity of native TZ. PLGA NPs allowed a good co-encapsulation efficiency of TZ and doxorubicin resulting in improved therapy. Conclusion With the TZ case study, we demonstrate that the distinctive features of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, including molecular targeting efficiency, capability to inhibit or properly affect the regulatory signaling pathways of cancer cells and stimulation of the ADCC, are fully preserved after loading

  20. Gadolinium diethylenetriaminopentaacetic acid-loaded chitosan microspheres for gadolinium neutron-capture therapy.

    PubMed

    Saha, Tapan Kumar; Ichikawa, Hideki; Fukumori, Yoshinobu

    2006-12-11

    In order to provide a suitable device that would contain water-soluble drugs, highly water-soluble gadolinium diethylenetriaminopentaacetic acid-loaded chitosan microspheres (CMS-Gd-DTPA) were prepared by the emulsion method using glutaraldehyde as a cross-linker and Span 80 as a surfactant for gadolinium neutron-capture therapy of cancer. The gadolinium content and the mass median diameter of CMS-Gd-DTPA were estimated. The size and morphology of the CMS-Gd-DTPA were strongly influenced by the initial applied weight ratio of Gd-DTPA:chitosan. FTIR spectra showed that the electrostatic interaction between chitosan and Gd-DTPA accelerated the formation of gadolinium-enriched chitosan microspheres. Sufficient amounts of glutaraldehyde and Span 80 were necessary for producing discrete CMS-Gd-DTPA. The CMS-Gd-DTPA having a mass median diameter 11.7microm and 11.6% of gadolinium could be used in Gd-NCT following intratumoral injection.

  1. Folic acid-functionalized magnetic ZnFe2O4 hollow microsphere core/mesoporous silica shell composite particles: synthesis and application in drug release.

    PubMed

    Yang, Dandan; Wei, Kaiwei; Liu, Qi; Yang, Yong; Guo, Xue; Rong, Hongren; Cheng, Mei-Ling; Wang, Guoxiu

    2013-07-01

    A drug delivery system was designed by deliberately combining the useful functions into one entity, which was composed of magnetic ZnFe2O4 hollow microsphere as the core, and mesoporous silica with folic acid molecules as the outer shell. Amine groups coated magnetic ZnFe2O4 hollow microsphere core/mesoporous silica shell (MZHM-MSS-NH2) composite particles were first synthesized by a one-pot direct co-condensation method. Subsequently a novel kind of folic acid-functionalized magnetic ZnFe2O4 hollow microsphere core/mesoporous silica shell (MZHM-MSS-NHFA) composite particles were synthesized by conjugating folic acid as targeted molecule to MZHM-MSS-NH2. Ibuprofen, a well-known antiphlogistic drug, was used as a model drug to assess the loading and releasing behavior of the composite microspheres. The results show that the MZHM-MSS-NHFA system has the higher capacity of drug storage and good sustained drug-release property. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. The fabrication of PLGA microvessel scaffolds with nano-patterned inner walls.

    PubMed

    Wang, Gou-Jen; Lin, Yan-Cheng; Hsu, Shan-Hui

    2010-10-01

    Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is one of the most commonly used biodegradable, biocompatible materials. Nanostructured PLGA has immense potential for application in tissue engineering. In this article we discuss a novel approach for the fabrication of PLGA microvessel scaffolds with nanostructured inner walls. In this novel nano-patterning approach, the thermal reflow technique is first adapted to fabricate a semi-cylindrical photoresist master mold. A thin film of titanium and a thin film of aluminum are sputtered in sequence on the semi-cylindrical microvessel network. Aluminum foil anodization is then executed to transform the aluminum thin film into a porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) film. During the casting process a PLGA solution is cast on the AAO film to build up semi-cylindrical PLGA microstructures with nanostructured inner walls after which inductive coupled plasma (ICP) is implemented to assist bonding of the two PLGA structures. The result is the building of a network of microchannels with nano-patterned inner walls. Bovine endothelial cells (BECs) are carefully cultured in the scaffold via semi-dynamic seeding for 7 days. Observations show that the BECs grew more separately in a nano-patterned microvessel scaffold than they did in a smooth surface scaffold.

  3. Preparation and evaluation of 188 Re sulfide colloidal nanoparticles loaded biodegradable poly (L-lactic acid) microspheres for radioembolization therapy.

    PubMed

    Jamre, Mina; Shamsaei, Mojtaba; Erfani, Mostafa; Sadjadi, Sodeh; Ghannadi Maragheh, Mohammad

    2018-04-12

    Radioembolization with radioactive microspheres has been an effective method for the treatment of liver lesions. The aim of this study was to prepare carrier-free 188 Re loaded poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) microspheres through 188 Re sulfide colloidal nanoparticles ( 188 Re-SC nanoparticles). The formation of 188 Re-SC nanoparticles was confirmed by ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry. The labeling yield of 188 Re-SC nanoparticles was verified using the RTLC method. Effects of synthesis parameters on morphology and size of prepared 188 Re-sulfide colloidal-PLLA microspheres ( 188 Re-SC-PLLA microspheres) were studied by scanning electron microscopy. In vitro stability of 188 Re-SC-PLLA microspheres was investigated in normal saline at room temperature and in human serum at 37°C. In vivo distribution studies and gamma camera imaging were performed in healthy BALB/c mice. The microspheres could be prepared with sizes between 13 and 48 μm (modal value 29 μm) and radiolabeling efficiency >99%. After incubation, the microspheres were found stable in vitro up to 72 hours. The biodistribution after intravenous injection in healthy BALB/c mice showed high accumulation in lung as a first capture pathway organ for microsphere followed by great retention over 48 hours for these microspheres. These data show that 188 Re-SC-PLLA microspheres are suitable candidate for clinical studies. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  4. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of PLGA nanoparticles with varied mPEG content

    PubMed Central

    Li, Mingguang; Panagi, Zoi; Avgoustakis, Konstantinos; Reineke, Joshua

    2012-01-01

    Biodistribution of nanoparticles is dependent on their physicochemical properties (such as size, surface charge, and surface hydrophilicity). Clear and systematic understanding of nanoparticle properties’ effects on their in vivo performance is of fundamental significance in nanoparticle design, development and optimization for medical applications, and toxicity evaluation. In the present study, a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model was utilized to interpret the effects of nanoparticle properties on previously published biodistribution data. Biodistribution data for five poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticle formulations prepared with varied content of monomethoxypoly (ethyleneglycol) (mPEG) (PLGA, PLGA-mPEG256, PLGA-mPEG153, PLGA-mPEG51, PLGA-mPEG34) were collected in mice after intravenous injection. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model was developed and evaluated to simulate the mass-time profiles of nanoparticle distribution in tissues. In anticipation that the biodistribution of new nanoparticle formulations could be predicted from the physiologically based pharmacokinetic model, multivariate regression analysis was performed to build the relationship between nanoparticle properties (size, zeta potential, and number of PEG molecules per unit surface area) and biodistribution parameters. Based on these relationships, characterized physicochemical properties of PLGA-mPEG495 nanoparticles (a sixth formulation) were used to calculate (predict) biodistribution profiles. For all five initial formulations, the developed model adequately simulates the experimental data indicating that the model is suitable for description of PLGA-mPEG nanoparticle biodistribution. Further, the predicted biodistribution profiles of PLGA-mPEG495 were close to experimental data, reflecting properly developed property–biodistribution relationships. PMID:22419876

  5. Translocator protein ligand-PLGA conjugated nanoparticles for 5-fluorouracil delivery to glioma cancer cells.

    PubMed

    Laquintana, Valentino; Denora, Nunzio; Lopalco, Antonio; Lopedota, Angela; Cutrignelli, Annalisa; Lasorsa, Francesco Massimo; Agostino, Giulia; Franco, Massimo

    2014-03-03

    Translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) is a promising target for molecular imaging and for targeted drug delivery to tumors overexpressing TSPO. In our previous work, new macromolecular conjugates with a high affinity and selectivity for TSPO were prepared by conjugating the biodegradable poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymer with two potent and selective TSPO ligands, namely, compounds 1 and 2. Based on this, nanoparticle delivery systems (NPs), employing TSPO ligand-PLGA conjugated (PLGA-TSPO) polymers, were prepared. Furthermore, to evaluate the ability of the new NPs to be used as a drug delivery systems for anticancer therapy, PLGA-TSPO NPs were loaded with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), chosen as a model hydrophilic anticancer drug. The main goal of this work was to investigate the synergistic potential of using NP conjugates PLGA-TSPO, TSPO ligands being pro-apoptotic agents, to simultaneously deliver a cytotoxic anticancer drug. To better highlight the occurrence of synergistic effects, dual drug loaded PLGA NPs (PLGA NPs/5-FU/1) and dual drug loaded PLGA-TSPO NPs (PLGA-TSPO NPs/5-FU/1), with 5-FU and TSPO ligand 1 physically incorporated together, were also prepared and characterized. The particle size and size distribution, surface morphology, and drug encapsulation efficiency, as well as the drug release kinetics, were investigated. In vitro cytotoxicity studies were carried out on C6 glioma cells overexpressing TSPO, and to evaluate the potential uptake of these nanoparticulate systems, the internalization of fluorescent labeled PLGA-TSPO NPs (FITC-PLGA-TSPO NPs) was also investigated by fluorescence microscopy. Results demonstrated that PLGA-TSPO NPs/5-FU and dual drug loaded PLGA NPs/5-FU/1 and PLGA-TSPO NPs/5-FU/1 could significantly enhance toxicity against human cancer cells due to the synergistic effect of the TSPO ligand 1 with the anticancer drug 5-FU.

  6. Spermidine-mediated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles containing fluorofenidone for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Tang, Jing; Li, Jianming; Li, Guo; Zhang, Haitao; Wang, Ling; Li, Dai; Ding, Jinsong

    2017-01-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive, fatal lung disease with poor survival. The advances made in deciphering this disease have led to the approval of different antifibrotic molecules, such as pirfenidone and nintedanib. An increasing number of studies with particles (liposomes, nanoparticles [NPs], microspheres, nanopolymersomes, and nanoliposomes) modified with different functional groups have demonstrated improvement in lung-targeted drug delivery. In the present study, we prepared, characterized, and evaluated spermidine (Spd)-modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NPs as carriers for fluorofenidone (AKF) to improve the antifibrotic efficacy of this drug in the lung. Spd-AKF-PLGA NPs were prepared and functionalized by modified solvent evaporation with Spd and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-PLGA groups. The size of Spd-AKF-PLGA NPs was 172.5±4.3 nm. AKF release from NPs was shown to fit the Higuchi model. A549 cellular uptake of an Spd–coumarin (Cou)-6-PLGA NP group was found to be almost twice as high as that of the Cou-6-PLGA NP group. Free Spd and difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) were preincubated in A549 cells to prove uptake of Spd-Cou-6-PLGA NPs via a polyamine-transport system. As a result, the uptake of Spd-Cou-6-PLGA NPs significantly decreased with increased Spd concentrations in incubation. At higher Spd concentrations of 50 and 500 µM, uptake of Spd-Cou-6-PLGA NPs reduced 0.34- and 0.49-fold from that without Spd pretreatment. After pretreatment with DFMO for 36 hours, cellular uptake of Spd-Cou-6-PLGA NPs reached 1.26-fold compared to the untreated DFMO group. In a biodistribution study, the drug-targeting index of Spd-AKF-PLGA NPs in the lung was 3.62- and 4.66-fold that of AKF-PLGA NPs and AKF solution, respectively. This suggested that Spd-AKF-PLGA NPs accumulated effectively in the lung. Lung-histopathology changes and collagen deposition were observed by H&E staining and Masson staining in an efficacy study. In the Spd-AKF-PLGA

  7. PLGA nanoparticles improve the oral bioavailability of curcumin in rats: characterizations and mechanisms.

    PubMed

    Xie, Xiaoxia; Tao, Qing; Zou, Yina; Zhang, Fengyi; Guo, Miao; Wang, Ying; Wang, Hui; Zhou, Qian; Yu, Shuqin

    2011-09-14

    The overall goal of this paper was to develop poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs) of curcumin (CUR), named CUR-PLGA-NPs, and to study the effect and mechanisms enhancing the oral bioavailability of CUR. CUR-PLGA-NPs were prepared according to a solid-in-oil-in-water (s/o/w) solvent evaporation method and exhibited a smooth and spherical shape with diameters of about 200 nm. Characterization of CUR-PLGA-NPs showed CUR was successfully encapsulated on the PLGA polymer. The entrapment efficiency and loading rate of CUR were 91.96 and 5.75%, respectively. CUR-PLGA-NPs showed about 640-fold in water solubility relative to that of n-CUR. A sustained CUR release to a total of approximately 77% was discovered from CUR-PLGA-NPs in artificial intestinal juice, but only about 48% in artificial gastric juice. After oral administration of CUR-PLGA-NPs, the relative bioavailability was 5.6-fold and had a longer half-life compared with that of native curcumin. The results showed that the effect in improving oral bioavailability of CUR may be associated with improved water solubility, higher release rate in the intestinal juice, enhanced absorption by improved permeability, inhibition of P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux, and increased residence time in the intestinal cavity. Thus, encapsulating hydrophobic drugs on PLGA polymer is a promising method for sustained and controlled drug delivery with improved bioavailability of Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class IV, such as CUR.

  8. Lead recovery and glass microspheres synthesis from waste CRT funnel glasses through carbon thermal reduction enhanced acid leaching process.

    PubMed

    Mingfei, Xing; Yaping, Wang; Jun, Li; Hua, Xu

    2016-03-15

    In this study, a novel process for detoxification and reutilization of waste cathode ray tube (CRT) funnel glass was developed by carbon thermal reduction enhanced acid leaching process. The key to this process is removal of lead from the CRT funnel glass and synchronous preparation of glass microspheres. Carbon powder was used as an isolation agent and a reducing agent. Under the isolation of the carbon powder, the funnel glass powder was sintered into glass microspheres. In thermal reduction, PbO in the funnel glass was first reduced to elemental Pb by carbon monoxide and then located on the surface of glass microspheres which can be removed easily by acid leaching. Experimental results showed that temperature, carbon adding amount and holding time were the major parameters that controlled lead removal rate. The maximum lead removal rate was 94.80% and glass microspheres that measured 0.73-14.74μm were obtained successfully by setting the temperature, carbon adding amount and holding time at 1200°C, 10% and 30min, respectively. The prepared glass microspheres may be used as fillers in polymer materials and abrasive materials, among others. Accordingly, this study proposed a practical and economical process for detoxification and recycling of waste lead-containing glass. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Ozone Gas as a Benign Sterilization Treatment for PLGA Nanofiber Scaffolds

    PubMed Central

    de Jesus Andreoli Pinto, Terezinha; Bou-Chacra, Nadia Araci; Galante, Raquel; de Araújo, Gabriel Lima Barros; do Nascimento Pedrosa, Tatiana; Maria-Engler, Silvya Stuchi

    2016-01-01

    The use of electrospun nanofibers for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications is a growing trend as they provide improved support for cell proliferation and survival due, in part, to their morphology mimicking that of the extracellular matrix. Sterilization is a critical step in the fabrication process of implantable biomaterial scaffolds for clinical use, but many of the existing methods used to date can negatively affect scaffold properties and performance. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) has been widely used as a biodegradable polymer for 3D scaffolds and can be significantly affected by current sterilization techniques. The aim of this study was to investigate pulsed ozone gas as an alternative method for sterilizing PLGA nanofibers. The morphology, mechanical properties, physicochemical properties, and response of cells to PLGA nanofiber scaffolds were assessed following different degrees of ozone gas sterilization. This treatment killed Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores, the most common biological indicator used for validation of sterilization processes. In addition, the method preserved all of the characteristics of nonsterilized PLGA nanofibers at all degrees of sterilization tested. These findings suggest that ozone gas can be applied as an alternative method for sterilizing electrospun PLGA nanofiber scaffolds without detrimental effects. PMID:26757850

  10. Ozone Gas as a Benign Sterilization Treatment for PLGA Nanofiber Scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Rediguieri, Carolina Fracalossi; Pinto, Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli; Bou-Chacra, Nadia Araci; Galante, Raquel; de Araújo, Gabriel Lima Barros; Pedrosa, Tatiana do Nascimento; Maria-Engler, Silvya Stuchi; De Bank, Paul A

    2016-04-01

    The use of electrospun nanofibers for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications is a growing trend as they provide improved support for cell proliferation and survival due, in part, to their morphology mimicking that of the extracellular matrix. Sterilization is a critical step in the fabrication process of implantable biomaterial scaffolds for clinical use, but many of the existing methods used to date can negatively affect scaffold properties and performance. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) has been widely used as a biodegradable polymer for 3D scaffolds and can be significantly affected by current sterilization techniques. The aim of this study was to investigate pulsed ozone gas as an alternative method for sterilizing PLGA nanofibers. The morphology, mechanical properties, physicochemical properties, and response of cells to PLGA nanofiber scaffolds were assessed following different degrees of ozone gas sterilization. This treatment killed Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores, the most common biological indicator used for validation of sterilization processes. In addition, the method preserved all of the characteristics of nonsterilized PLGA nanofibers at all degrees of sterilization tested. These findings suggest that ozone gas can be applied as an alternative method for sterilizing electrospun PLGA nanofiber scaffolds without detrimental effects.

  11. In vivo study of ALA PLGA nanoparticles-mediated PDT for treating cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Xiaojie; Shi, Lei; Huang, Zheng; Wang, Xiuli

    2014-09-01

    Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer and its treatment is still a challenge. Although topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is effective for treating in situ and superficial SCC, the effectiveness of topical ALA delivery to thick SCC can be limited by its bioavailability. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid nanopartieles (PLGA NPs) might provide a promising ALA delivery strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of ALA PLGA NPs PDT for the treatment of cutaneous SCC in a mouse model. Methods: ALA loaded PLGA NPs were prepared and characterized. The therapeutic efficacy of ALA PLGA NP mediated PDT in treating UV-induced cutaneous SCC in the mice model were examined. Results: In vivo study showed that ALA PLGA NPs PDT were more effective than free ALA of the same concentration in treating mouse cutaneous SCC. Conclusion: ALA PLGA NPs provides a promising strategy for delivering ALA and treating cutaneous SCC.

  12. Poly(methacrylic acid)-grafted chitosan microspheres via surface-initiated ATRP for enhanced removal of Cd(II) ions from aqueous solution.

    PubMed

    Huang, Liqiang; Yuan, Shaojun; Lv, Li; Tan, Guangqun; Liang, Bin; Pehkonen, S O

    2013-09-01

    Cross-linked chitosan (CCS) microspheres tethered with pH-sensitive poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) brushes were developed for the efficient removal of Cd(II) ions from aqueous solutions. Functional PMAA brushes containing dense and active carboxyl groups (COOH) were grafted onto the CCS microsphere surface via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Batch adsorption results showed that solution pH values had a major impact on cadmium adsorption by the PMAA-grafted CCS microspheres with the optimal removal observed above pH 5. The CCS-g-PMAA microsphere was found to achieve the adsorption equilibrium of Cd(II) within 1 h, much faster than about 7 h on the CCS microsphere. At pH 5 and with an initial concentration 0.089-2.49 mmol dm(-3), the maximum adsorption capacity of Cd(II), derived from the Langmuir fitting on the PMAA-grafted microspheres was around 1.3 mmol g(-1). Desorption and adsorption cycle experimental results revealed that the PMAA-grafted CCS microspheres loaded with Cd(II) can be effectively regenerated in a dilute HNO3 solution, and the adsorption capacity remained almost unchanged upon five cycle reuse. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Protective efficacy of cationic-PLGA microspheres loaded with DNA vaccine encoding the sip gene of Streptococcus agalactiae in tilapia.

    PubMed

    Ma, Yan-Ping; Ke, Hao; Liang, Zhi-Ling; Ma, Jiang-Yao; Hao, Le; Liu, Zhen-Xing

    2017-07-01

    Streptococcus agalactiae (S. agalactiae) is an important fish pathogen, which has received more attention in the past decade due to the increasing economic losses in the tilapia industry worldwide. As existing effective vaccines of S. agalactiae in fish have obvious disadvantage, to select immunoprotective antigens and package materials would undoubtedly contribute to the development of novel oral vaccines. In the present study, surface immunogenic protein (sip) was selected from the S. agalactiae serovar I a genomes as immunogenic protein in DNA vaccine form with cationic chitosan and biodegradable and biocompatible PLGA. The pcSip plasmid in cationic-PLGA was successfully expressed in tissues of immunized tilapia and the immunogenicity was assessed in tilapia challenge model. A significant increase was observed in the cytokine levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, CC1, CC2 in spleen and kidney tissues. Furthermore, immunized tilapia conferred different levels of protection against challenge with a lethal dose of highly virulent serovar I a S. agalactiae. Our results indicated that the pcSip plasmid in cationic-PLGA induced high level of antibodies and protection against S. agalactiae infection, could be effective oral DNA vaccine candidates. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Cellular delivery of PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Pamujula, Sarala; Hazari, Sidhartha; Bolden, Gevoni; Graves, Richard A; Chinta, Dakshinamurthy Devanga; Dash, Srikanta; Kishore, Vimal; Mandal, Tarun K

    2012-01-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate the efficiency of uptake of PEGylated polylactide-co-gycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles by breast cancer cells. Nanoparticles of PLGA containing various amounts of polyethylene glycol (PEG, 5%-15%) were prepared using a double emulsion solvent evaporation method. The nanoparticles were loaded with coumarin-6 (C6) as a fluorescence marker. The particles were characterized for surface morphology, particle size, zeta potential, and for cellular uptake by 4T1 murine breast cancer cells. Irrespective of the amount of PEG, all formulations yielded smooth spherical particles. However, a comparison of the particle size of various formulations showed bimodal distribution of particles. Each formulation was later passed through a 1.2 µm filter to obtain target size particles (114-335 nm) with zeta potentials ranging from -2.8 mV to -26.2 mV. While PLGA-PEG di-block (15% PEG) formulation showed significantly higher 4T1 cellular uptake than all other formulations, there was no statistical difference in cellular uptake among PLGA, PLGA-PEG-PLGA tri-block (10% PEG), PLGA-PEG di-block (5% PEG) and PLGA-PEG di-block (10% PEG) nanoparticles. These preliminary findings indicated that the nanoparticle formulation prepared with 15% PEGylated PLGA showed maximum cellular uptake due to it having the smallest particle size and lowest zeta potential. © 2011 The Authors. JPP © 2011 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  15. The influence of spray-drying parameters on phase behavior, drug distribution, and in vitro release of injectable microspheres for sustained release.

    PubMed

    Meeus, Joke; Lenaerts, Maité; Scurr, David J; Amssoms, Katie; Davies, Martyn C; Roberts, Clive J; Van Den Mooter, Guy

    2015-04-01

    For ternary solid dispersions, it is indispensable to characterize their structure, phase behavior, and the spatial distribution of the dispersed drug as this might influence the release profile and/or stability of these formulations. This study shows how formulation (feed concentration) and process (feed rate, inlet air temperature, and atomizing air pressure) parameters can influence the characteristics of ternary spray-dried solid dispersions. The microspheres considered here consist of a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) surface layer and an underlying polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) phase. A poorly soluble active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) was molecularly dispersed in this matrix. Differences were observed in component miscibility, phase heterogeneity, particle size, morphology, as well as API surface coverage for selected spray-drying parameters. Observed differences are likely because of changes in the droplet generation, evaporation, and thus particle formation processes. However, varying particle characteristics did not influence the drug release of the formulations studied, indicating the robustness of this approach to produce particles of consistent drug release characteristics. This is likely because of the fact that the release is dominated by diffusion from the PVP layer through pores in the PLGA surface layer and that observed differences in the latter have no influence on the release. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  16. Surface modification of PLGA nanoparticles by carbopol to enhance mucoadhesion and cell internalization.

    PubMed

    Surassmo, Suvimol; Saengkrit, Nattika; Ruktanonchai, Uracha Rungsardthong; Suktham, Kunat; Woramongkolchai, Noppawan; Wutikhun, Tuksadon; Puttipipatkhachorn, Satit

    2015-06-01

    Mucoadhesive poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles having a modified shell-matrix derived from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Carbopol (CP), a biodegradable polymer coating, to improve the adhesion and cell transfection properties were developed. The optimum formulations utilized a CP concentration in the range of 0.05-0.2%w/v, and were formed using modified emulsion-solvent evaporation technique. The resulting CP-PLGA nanoparticles were characterized in terms of their physical and chemical properties. The absorbed CP on the PLGA shell-matrix was found to affect the particle size and surface charge, with 0.05% CP giving rise to smooth spherical particles (0.05CP-PLGA) with the smallest size (285.90 nm), and strong negative surface charge (-25.70 mV). The introduction of CP results in an enhancement of the mucoadhesion between CP-PLGA nanoparticles and mucin particles. In vitro cell internalization studies highlighted the potential of 0.05CP-PLGA nanoparticles for transfection into SiHa cells, with uptake being time dependent. Additionally, cytotoxicity studies of CP-PLGA nanoparticles against SiHa cancer cells indicated that low concentrations of the nanoparticles were non-toxic to cells (cell viability >80%). From the various formulations studied, 0.05CP-PLGA nanoparticles proved to be the optimum model carrier having the required mucoadhesive profile and could be an alternative therapeutic efficacy carrier for targeted mucosal drug delivery systems with biodegradable polymer. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. PLGA nanoparticles codeliver paclitaxel and Stat3 siRNA to overcome cellular resistance in lung cancer cells

    PubMed Central

    Su, Wen-Pin; Cheng, Fong-Yu; Shieh, Dar-Bin; Yeh, Chen-Sheng; Su, Wu-Chou

    2012-01-01

    Background: Effective cancer chemotherapy remains an important issue in cancer treatment, and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (Stat3) activation leads to cellular resistance of anticancer agents. Polymers are ideal vectors to carry both chemotherapeutics and small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) to enhance antitumor efficacy. In this paper, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with paclitaxel and Stat3 siRNA were successfully synthesized, and their applications in cancer cells were investigated. Methods: Firstly, paclitaxel was enclosed by PLGA nanoparticles through solvent evaporation. They were then coated with cationic polyethylenimine polymer (PLGA-PEI-TAX), enabling it to carry Stat3 siRNA on its surface through electrostatic interactions (PLGA-PEI-TAX-S3SI). The size, zeta potential, deliver efficacy, and release profile of the PLGA nanocomplexes were characterized in vitro. The cellular uptake, intracellular nanoparticle trajectory, and subsequent cellular events were evaluated after treatment with various PLGA nanocomplexes in human lung cancer A549 cells and A549-derived paclitaxel-resistant A549/T12 cell lines with α-tubulin mutation. Results: A549 and A549/T12 cells contain constitutively activated Stat3, and silencing Stat3 by siRNA made both cancer cells more sensitive to paclitaxel. Therefore, PLGA-PEI-TAX-S3SI was synthesized to test its therapeutic role in A549 and A549/T12 cells. Transmission electron microscopy showed the size of PLGA-PEI-TAX-S3SI to be around 250 nm. PLGA-PEI nanoparticles were nontoxic. PLGA-PEI-TAX was taken up by A549 and A549/T12 cells more than free paclitaxel, and they induced more condensed microtubule bundles and had higher cytotoxicity in these cancer cells. Moreover, the yellowish fluorescence observed in the cytoplasm of the cancer cells indicates that the PLGA-PEI nanoparticles were still simultaneously delivering Oregon Green paclitaxel and cyanine-5-labeled Stat3 siRNA 3

  18. Clinical use of the resorbable bioscaffold poly lactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) in post-extraction socket for maintaining the alveolar height: A prospective study.

    PubMed

    Hoda, Nadeemul; Saifi, Aamir Malick; Giraddi, Girish B

    2016-01-01

    A common sequel of tooth extraction is alveolar bone resorption. It makes the placement of dental implants difficult and creates an esthetic problem for the fabrication of conventional prostheses. Therefore, alveolar bone following tooth extraction should be preserved. The present prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the resorbable bioscaffold poly lactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) in maintaining the alveolar height in post-extraction socket. 20 patients were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly divided into two groups: cases and control comprising of 10 patients each. Atraumatic tooth extraction was done in all patients. PLGA bioscaffold was placed in cases and socket was closed with 3-0 vicryl. In control group, socket was directly closed with 3-0 vicryl. The patients were kept on follow-up and complications such as dry socket, pain, and swelling were recorded. IOPA were taken at 1st, 4th, 12th, and 24th week to record changes in the height of alveolar bone. The radiographic measurements were compared and the differences were statistically analyzed. Reduction in alveolar bone height after placement of PLGA bioscaffold was significantly less in cases as compared to controls at 4th, 12th, and 24th week following extraction. No complications were observed throughout the follow-up period. PLGA scaffold significantly reduces bone resorption. Application is very simple and can be easily performed in a dental setup. However, PLGA scaffold adds significantly to the cost of treatment.

  19. Treating cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma using ALA PLGA nanoparticle-mediated photodynamic therapy in a mouse model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Xiaojie; Shi, Lei; Tu, Qingfeng; Wang, Hongwei; Zhang, Haiyan; Wang, Peiru; Zhang, Linglin; Huang, Zheng; Wang, Xiuli; Zhao, Feng; Luan, Hansen

    2015-03-01

    Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer and its treatment is still difficult. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of nanoparticle (NP)-assisted ALA delivery for topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cutaneous SCC. Methods: UV-induced cutaneous SCCs were established in hairless mice. ALA loaded polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) NPs were prepared and characterized. The kinetics of ALA PLGA NPs-induced protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) fluorescence in SCCs, therapeutic efficacy of ALA NP-mediated PDT, and immune responses were examined. Results: PLGA NPs could enhance PpIX production in SCC. ALA PLGA NP mediated topical PDT was more effective than free ALA of the same concentration in treating cutaneous SCC. Conclusion: PLGA NPs provide a promising strategy for delivering ALA in topical PDT of cutaneous SCC.

  20. HDL-Mimetic PLGA Nanoparticle To Target Atherosclerosis Plaque Macrophages

    PubMed Central

    Sanchez-Gaytan, Brenda L.; Fay, Francois; Lobatto, Mark E.; Tang, Jun; Ouimet, Mireille; Kim, YongTae; van der Staay, Susanne E. M.; van Rijs, Sarian M.; Priem, Bram; Zhang, Liangfang; Fisher, Edward A; Moore, Kathryn J.; Langer, Robert; Fayad, Zahi A.; Mulder, Willem J M

    2015-01-01

    High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a natural nanoparticle that exhibits an intrinsic affinity for atherosclerotic plaque macrophages. Its natural targeting capability as well as the option to incorporate lipophilic payloads, e.g., imaging or therapeutic components, in both the hydrophobic core and the phospholipid corona make the HDL platform an attractive nanocarrier. To realize controlled release properties, we developed a hybrid polymer/HDL nanoparticle composed of a lipid/apolipoprotein coating that encapsulates a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) core. This novel HDL-like nanoparticle (PLGA–HDL) displayed natural HDL characteristics, including preferential uptake by macrophages and a good cholesterol efflux capacity, combined with a typical PLGA nanoparticle slow release profile. In vivo studies carried out with an ApoE knockout mouse model of atherosclerosis showed clear accumulation of PLGA–HDL nanoparticles in atherosclerotic plaques, which colocalized with plaque macrophages. This biomimetic platform integrates the targeting capacity of HDL biomimetic nanoparticles with the characteristic versatility of PLGA-based nanocarriers. PMID:25650634

  1. Coacervate-like microspheres from lysine-rich proteinoid

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rohlfing, D. L.

    1975-01-01

    Microspheres form isothermally from lysine-rich proteinoid when the ionic strength of the solution is increased with NaCl or other salts. Studies with different monovalent anions and with polymers of different amino acid composition indicate that charge neutralization and hydrophobic bonding contribute to microsphere formation. The particles also form in sea water, especially if heated or made slightly alkaline. The microspheres differ from those made from acidic proteinoid but resemble coacervate droplets in some ways (isothermal formation, limited stability, stabilization by quinone, uptake of dyes). Because the constituent lysine-rich proteinoid is of simulated prebiotic origin, the study is interpreted to add emphasis to and suggest an evolutionary continuity for coacervation phenomena.

  2. Tailoring sub-micron PLGA particle release profiles via centrifugal fractioning

    PubMed Central

    Dutta, Dipankar; Salifu, Mariama; Sirianni, Rachael W.; Stabenfeldt, Sarah E.

    2016-01-01

    Poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based submicron particles are uniquely posed to overcome limitations of conventional drug delivery systems. However, tailoring cargo/payload release profiles from PLGA micro/nanoparticles typically requires optimization of the multi-parameter formulation, where small changes may cause drastic shifts in the resulting release profiles. In this study, we aimed to establish whether refining the average diameter of submicron particle populations after formulation alters protein release profiles. PLGA particles were first produced via double emulsion-solvent evaporation method to encapsulate bovine serum albumin. Particles were then subjected to centrifugal fractioning protocols varying in both spin time and force to determine encapsulation efficiency and release profile of differently sized populations that originated from a single batch. We found the average particle diameter was related to marked alterations in encapsulation efficiencies (range: 36.4–49.4%), burst release (range: 15.8–49.1%), and time for total cargo release (range: 38–78 days). Our data corroborate previous reports relating PLGA particle size with such release characteristics, however, this is the first study, to our knowledge, to directly compare particle population size while holding all formulation parameters constant. In summary, centrifugal fractioning to selectively control the population distribution of sub-micron PLGA particles represents a feasible tool to tailor release characteristics. PMID:26517011

  3. In vivo biocompatibility of the PLGA microparticles in parotid gland

    PubMed Central

    Cantín, Mario; Miranda, Patricio; Suazo Galdames, Iván; Zavando, Daniela; Arenas, Patricia; Velásquez, Luis; Vilos, Cristian

    2013-01-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles are used in various disorders for the controlled or sustained release of drugs, with the management of salivary gland pathologies possible using this technology. There is no record of the response to such microparticles in the glandular parenchyma. The purpose of this study was to assess the morphological changes in the parotid gland when injected with a single dose of PLGA microparticles. We used 12 adult female Sprague Dawley rats (Rattus norvegicus) that were injected into their right parotid gland with sterile vehicle solution (G1, n=4), 0.5 mg PLGA microparticles (G2, n=4), and 0.75 mg PLGA microparticles (G3, n=4); the microparticles were dissolved in a sterile vehicle solution. The intercalar and striated ducts lumen, the thickness of the acini and the histology aspect in terms of the parenchyma organization, cell morphology of acini and duct system, the presence of polymeric residues, and inflammatory response were determined at 14 days post-injection. The administration of the compound in a single dose modified some of the morphometric parameters of parenchyma (intercalar duct lumen and thickness of the glandular acini) but did not induce tissue inflammatory response, despite the visible presence of polymer waste. This suggests that PLGA microparticles are biocompatible with the parotid tissue, making it possible to use intraglandular controlled drug administration. PMID:24228103

  4. Comparative evaluation of antibacterial activity of caffeic acid phenethyl ester and PLGA nanoparticle formulation by different methods

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arasoglu, Tülin; Derman, Serap; Mansuroglu, Banu

    2016-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of nanoparticle and free formulations of the CAPE compound using different methods and comparing the results in the literature for the first time. In parallel with this purpose, encapsulation of CAPE with the PLGA nanoparticle system (CAPE-PLGA-NPs) and characterization of nanoparticles were carried out. Afterwards, antimicrobial activity of free CAPE and CAPE-PLGA-NPs was determined using agar well diffusion, disk diffusion, broth microdilution and reduction percentage methods. P. aeroginosa, E. coli, S. aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) were chosen as model bacteria since they have different cell wall structures. CAPE-PLGA-NPs within the range of 214.0 ± 8.80 nm particle size and with an encapsulation efficiency of 91.59 ± 4.97% were prepared using the oil-in-water (o-w) single-emulsion solvent evaporation method. The microbiological results indicated that free CAPE did not have any antimicrobial activity in any of the applied methods whereas CAPE-PLGA-NPs had significant antimicrobial activity in both broth dilution and reduction percentage methods. CAPE-PLGA-NPs showed moderate antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and MRSA strains particularly in hourly measurements at 30.63 and 61.25 μg ml-1 concentrations (both p < 0.05), whereas they failed to show antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria (P. aeroginosa and E. coli, p > 0.05). In the reduction percentage method, in which the highest results of antimicrobial activity were obtained, it was observed that the antimicrobial effect on S. aureus was more long-standing (3 days) and higher in reduction percentage (over 90%). The appearance of antibacterial activity of CAPE-PLGA-NPs may be related to higher penetration into cells due to low solubility of free CAPE in the aqueous medium. Additionally, the biocompatible and biodegradable PLGA nanoparticles could be an alternative to solvents such as ethanol

  5. Endocytic pathways involved in PLGA nanoparticle uptake by grapevine cells and role of cell wall and membrane in size selection.

    PubMed

    Palocci, Cleofe; Valletta, Alessio; Chronopoulou, Laura; Donati, Livia; Bramosanti, Marco; Brasili, Elisa; Baldan, Barbara; Pasqua, Gabriella

    2017-12-01

    PLGA NPs' cell uptake involves different endocytic pathways. Clathrin-independent endocytosis is the main internalization route. The cell wall plays a more prominent role than the plasma membrane in NPs' size selection. In the last years, many studies on absorption and cell uptake of nanoparticles by plants have been conducted, but the understanding of the internalization mechanisms is still largely unknown. In this study, polydispersed and monodispersed poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) were synthesized, and a strategy combining the use of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), confocal analysis, fluorescently labeled PLGA NPs, a probe for endocytic vesicles (FM4-64), and endocytosis inhibitors (i.e., wortmannin, ikarugamycin, and salicylic acid) was employed to shed light on PLGA NP cell uptake in grapevine cultured cells and to assess the role of the cell wall and plasma membrane in size selection of PLGA NPs. The ability of PLGA NPs to cross the cell wall and membrane was confirmed by TEM and fluorescence microscopy. A strong adhesion of PLGA NPs to the outer side of the cell wall was observed, presumably due to electrostatic interactions. Confocal microscopy and treatment with endocytosis inhibitors suggested the involvement of both clathrin-dependent and clathrin-independent endocytosis in cell uptake of PLGA NPs and the latter appeared to be the main internalization pathway. Experiments on grapevine protoplasts revealed that the cell wall plays a more prominent role than the plasma membrane in size selection of PLGA NPs. While the cell wall prevents the uptake of PLGA NPs with diameters over 50 nm, the plasma membrane can be crossed by PLGA NPs with a diameter of 500-600 nm.

  6. Chitosan microsphere scaffold tethered with RGD-conjugated poly(methacrylic acid) brushes as effective carriers for the endothelial cells.

    PubMed

    Yang, Zhenyi; Yuan, Shaojun; Liang, Bin; Liu, Yang; Choong, Cleo; Pehkonen, Simo O

    2014-09-01

    Endothelial cell-matrix interactions play a vital role in promoting vascularization of engineered tissues. The current study reports a facile and controllable method to develop a RGD peptide-functionalized chitosan microsphere scaffolds for rapid cell expansion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Functional poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) brushes are grafted from the chitosan microsphere surfaces via surface-initiated ATRP. Subsequent conjugation of RGD peptides on the pendent carboxyl groups of PMAA side chain is accomplished by carbodiimide chemistry to facilitate biocompatibility of the 3D CS scaffolding system. In vitro cell-loading assay of HUVECs exhibits a significant improvment of cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation on the RGD peptide-immobilized CS microsphere surfaces. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. Oral DNA vaccination of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), against infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus using PLGA [Poly(D,L-Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid)] nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Adomako, M; St-Hilaire, S; Zheng, Y; Eley, J; Marcum, R D; Sealey, W; Donahower, B C; Lapatra, S; Sheridan, P P

    2012-03-01

    A DNA vaccine against infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) is effective at protecting rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, against disease, but intramuscular injection is required and makes the vaccine impractical for use in the freshwater rainbow trout farming industry. Poly (D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved polymer that can be used to deliver DNA vaccines. We evaluated the in vivo absorption of PLGA nanoparticles containing coumarin-6 when added to a fish food pellet. We demonstrated that rainbow trout will eat PLGA nanoparticle coated feed and that these nanoparticles can be detected in the epithelial cells of the lower intestine within 96 h after feeding. We also detected low levels of gene expression and anti-IHNV neutralizing antibodies when fish were fed or intubated with PLGA nanoparticles containing IHNV G gene plasmid. A virus challenge evaluation suggested a slight increase in survival at 6 weeks post-vaccination in fish that received a high dose of the oral vaccine, but there was no difference when additional fish were challenged at 10 weeks post-vaccination. The results of this study suggest that it is possible to induce an immune response using an orally delivered DNA vaccine, but the current system needs improvement. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  8. Histological evaluation of osteogenesis of 3D-printed poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) scaffolds in a rabbit model.

    PubMed

    Ge, Zigang; Tian, Xianfeng; Heng, Boon Chin; Fan, Victor; Yeo, Jin Fei; Cao, Tong

    2009-04-01

    Utilizing a suitable combination of lactide and glycolide in a copolymer would optimize the degradation rate of a scaffold upon implantation in situ. Moreover, 3D printing technology enables customizing the shape of the scaffold to biometric data from CT and MRI scans. A previous in vitro study has shown that novel 3D-printed poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) scaffolds had good biocompatibility and mechanical properties comparable with human cancellous bone, while they could support proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts. Based on the previous study, this study evaluated PLGA scaffolds for bone regeneration within a rabbit model. The scaffolds were implanted at two sites on the same animal, within the periosteum and within bi-cortical bone defects on the iliac crest. Subsequently, the efficacy of bone regeneration within the implanted scaffolds was evaluated at 4, 12 and 24 weeks post-surgery through histological analysis. In both the intra-periosteum and iliac bone defect models, the implanted scaffolds facilitated new bone tissue formation and maturation over the time course of 24 weeks, even though there was initially observed to be little tissue ingrowth within the scaffolds at 4 weeks post-surgery. Hence, the 3D-printed porous PLGA scaffolds investigated in this study displayed good biocompatibility and are osteoconductive in both the intra-periosteum and iliac bone defect models.

  9. Development of VEGF-loaded PLGA matrices in association with mesenchymal stem cells for tissue engineering

    PubMed Central

    Rosa, A.R.; Steffens, D.; Santi, B.; Quintiliano, K.; Steffen, N.; Pilger, D.A.; Pranke, P.

    2017-01-01

    The association of bioactive molecules, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), with nanofibers facilitates their controlled release, which could contribute to cellular migration and differentiation in tissue regeneration. In this research, the influence of their incorporation on a polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) scaffold produced by electrospinning on cell adhesion and viability and cytotoxicity was carried out in three groups: 1) PLGA/BSA/VEGF; 2) PLGA/BSA, and 3) PLGA. Morphology, fiber diameter, contact angle, loading efficiency and controlled release of VEGF of the biomaterials, among others, were measured. The nanofibers showed smooth surfaces without beads and with interconnected pores. PLGA/BSA/VEGF showed the smallest water contact angle and VEGF released for up to 160 h. An improvement in cell adhesion was observed for the PLGA/BSA/VEGF scaffolds compared to the other groups and the scaffolds were non-toxic for the cells. Therefore, the scaffolds were shown to be a good strategy for sustained delivery of VEGF and may be a useful tool for tissue engineering. PMID:28793048

  10. Efficacy of Poly(D,L-Lactic Acid-co-Glycolic acid)-Poly(Ethylene Glycol)-Poly(D,L-Lactic Acid-co-Glycolic Acid) Thermogel As a Barrier to Prevent Spinal Epidural Fibrosis in a Postlaminectomy Rat Model.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiangqian; Chen, Lin; Lin, Hong; Cao, Luping; Cheng, Ji'an; Dong, Jian; Yu, Lin; Ding, Jiandong

    2017-04-01

    Experimental animal study. The authors conducted a study to determine the efficacy and safety of the poly(D,L-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(D,L-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) thermogel to prevent peridural fibrosis in an adult rat laminectomy model. Peridural fibrosis often occurs after spinal laminectomy. It might cause persistent back and/or leg pain postoperatively and make a reoperation more difficult and dangerous. Various materials have been used to prevent epidural fibrosis, but only limited success has been achieved. The PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel was synthesized by us. Total L3 laminectomies were performed on 24 rats. The PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel or chitosan (CHS) gel (a positive control group) was applied to the operative sites in a blinded manner. In the control group, the L3 laminectomy was performed and the defect was irrigated with the NS solution 3 times. All the rats were killed 4 weeks after the surgery. The cytotoxicity of this thermogel was evaluated in vitro and the result demonstrated that no evidence of cytotoxicity was observed. The extent of epidural fibrosis, the area of epidural fibrosis, and the density of the fibroblasts and blood vessel were evaluated histologically. There were statistical differences among the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel or CHS gel group compared with the control group. Although there was no difference between the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel and CHS gel, the efficiency of the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel was shown to be slightly improved compared with the CHS gel. The biocompatibility of the PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel was proven well. The application of this thermogel effectively reduced epidural scarring and prevented the subsequent adhesion to the dura mater. No side effects were noted in the rats.

  11. Pump-probe optical coherence tomography using microencapsulated methylene blue as a contrast agent (Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Wihan; Zebrowski, Erin; Lopez, Hazel C.; Applegate, Brian E.; Charoenphol, Phapanin; Jo, Javier A.

    2016-03-01

    Molecular contrast imaging can target specific molecules or receptors to provide detailed information on the local biochemistry and yield enhanced visualization of pathological and physiological processes. When paired with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) it can simultaneously supply the morphological context for the molecular information. We recently demonstrated in vivo molecular contrast imaging of methylene blue (MB) using a 663 nm diode laser as a pump in a Pump-Probe OCT (PPOCT) system. The simple addition of a dichroic mirror in the sample arm enabled PPOCT imaging with a typical 830-nm band spectral-domain OCT system. Here we report on the development of a microencapsulated MB contrast agent. The poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microspheres loaded with MB offer several advantages over bare MB. The microsphere encapsulation improves the PPOCT signal both by enhancing the scattering and preventing the reduction of MB to leucomethylene blue. The surface of the microsphere can readily be functionalized to enable active targeting of the contrast agent without modifying the excited state dynamics of MB that enable PPOCT imaging. Both MB and PLGA are used clinically. PLGA is FDA approved and used in drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. 2.5 μm diameter microspheres were synthesized with an inner core containing 0.01% (w/v) aqueous MB. As an initial demonstration the MB microspheres were imaged in a 100 μm diameter capillary tube submerged in a 1% intralipid emulsion.

  12. PTX-loaded three-layer PLGA/CS/ALG nanoparticle based on layer-by-layer method for cancer therapy.

    PubMed

    Wang, Fang; Yuan, Jian; Zhang, Qian; Yang, Siqian; Jiang, Shaohua; Huang, Chaobo

    2018-05-17

    Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles are an ideal paclitaxel (PTX)-carrying system due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. But it possessed disadvantage of drug burst release. In this research, a layer-by-layer deposition of chitosan (CS) and sodium alginate (ALG) was applied to modify the PLGA nanoparticles. The surface charges and morphology of the PLGA, PLGA/CS and PLGA/CS/ALG particles was measured by capillary electrophoresis and SEM and TEM, respectively. The drug encapsulation and loading efficiency were confirmed by ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The nanoparticles were stable and exhibited controlled drug release performance, with good cytotoxicity to human lung carcinoma cells (HepG 2). Cumulatively, our research suggests that this kind of three-layer nanoparticle with LbL-coated shield has great properties to act as a novel drug-loaded system.

  13. Effect of PLGA as a polymeric emulsifier on preparation of hydrophilic protein-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Xie, ShuYu; Wang, SiLiang; Zhao, BaoKai; Han, Chao; Wang, Ming; Zhou, WenZhong

    2008-12-01

    Most proteins are hydrophilic and poorly encapsulated into the hydrophobic matrix of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN). To solve this problem, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) was utilized as a lipophilic polymeric emulsifier to prepare hydrophilic protein-loaded SLN by w/o/w double emulsion and solvent evaporation techniques. Hydrogenated castor oil (HCO) was used as a lipid matrix and bovine serum albumin (BSA), lysozyme and insulin were used as model proteins to investigate the effect of PLGA on the formulation of the SLN. The results showed that PLGA was essential for the primary w/o emulsification. In addition, the stability of the w/o emulsion, the encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of the nanoparticles were enhanced with the increase of PLGA concentration. Furthermore, increasing PLGA concentration decreased zeta potential significantly but had no influence on particle size of the SLN. In vitro release study showed that PLGA significantly affected the initial burst release, i.e. the higher the content of PLGA, the lower the burst release. The released proteins maintained their integrity and bioactivity as confirmed by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and biological assay. These results demonstrated that PLGA was an effective emulsifier for the preparation of hydrophilic protein-loaded SLN.

  14. Docetaxel-loaded PLGA and PLGA-PEG nanoparticles for intravenous application: pharmacokinetics and biodistribution profile

    PubMed Central

    Rafiei, Pedram; Haddadi, Azita

    2017-01-01

    Docetaxel is a highly potent anticancer agent being used in a wide spectrum of cancer types. There are important matters of concern regarding the drug’s pharmacokinetics related to the conventional formulation. Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) is a biocompatible/biodegradable polymer with variable physicochemical characteristics, and its application in human has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. PLGA gives polymeric nanoparticles with unique drug delivery characteristics. The application of PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) as intravenous (IV) sustained-release delivery vehicles for docetaxel can favorably modify pharmacokinetics, biofate, and pharmacotherapy of the drug in cancer patients. Surface modification of PLGA NPs with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) can further enhance NPs’ long-circulating properties. Herein, an optimized fabrication approach has been used for the preparation of PLGA and PLGA–PEG NPs loaded with docetaxel for IV application. Both types of NP formulations demonstrated in vitro characteristics that were considered suitable for IV administration (with long-circulating sustained-release purposes). NP formulations were IV administered to an animal model, and docetaxel’s pharmacokinetic and biodistribution profiles were determined and compared between study groups. PLGA and PEGylated PLGA NPs were able to modify the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of docetaxel. Accordingly, the mode of changes made to pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of docetaxel is attributed to the size and surface properties of NPs. NPs contributed to increased blood residence time of docetaxel fulfilling their role as long-circulating sustained-release drug delivery systems. Surface modification of NPs contributed to more pronounced docetaxel blood concentration, which confirms the role of PEG in conferring long-circulation properties to NPs. PMID:28184163

  15. Structural and degradation characteristics of an innovative porous PLGA/TCP scaffold incorporated with bioactive molecular icaritin.

    PubMed

    Xie, Xin-Hui; Wang, Xin-Luan; Zhang, Ge; He, Yi-Xin; Wang, Xiao-Hong; Liu, Zhong; He, Kai; Peng, Jiang; Leng, Yang; Qin, Ling

    2010-10-01

    Phytomolecules may chemically bind to scaffold materials for medical applications. The present study used an osteoconductive porous poly(l-lactide-co-glycolide)/tricalcium phosphate (PLGA/TCP) to incorporate an exogenous phytoestrogenic molecule icaritin to form a PLGA/TCP/icaritin composite scaffold material with potential slow release of icaritin during scaffold degradation. Accordingly, the present study was designed to investigate its in vitro degradation characteristics and the release pattern of icaritin at three different doses (74 mg, 7.4 mg and 0.74 mg per 100 g PLGA/TCP, i.e. in the PLGA/TCP/icaritin-H, -M and -L groups, respectively). A PLGA/TCP/icaritin porous composite scaffold was fabricated using a computer-controlled printing machine. The PLGA/TCP/icaritin scaffolds were incubated in saline at 37 °C for 12 weeks and the pure PLGA/TCP scaffold served as a control. During the 12 weeks in vitro degradation, the scaffolds in all four groups showed changes, including a decrease in weight, volume and pore size of the composite scaffold, while there was a decrease in acidity and an increase in Ca and lactic acid concentrations in the degradation medium, especially after 7 weeks. The rate of degradation was explained by the relationship with the content of icaritin incorporated into the scaffolds. The higher the icaritin content in the scaffolds, the slower the degradation could be observed during 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, the SEM showed that the surface of the PLGA/TCP and PLGA/TCP/icaritin-L groups was relatively smooth with a gradual decrease in number and size of the micropores, while the porous morphology on the surface of the PLGA/TCP/icaritin-M and PLGA/TCP/icaritin-H groups was partly maintained, accompanied by a decrease in phosphate (P) and calcium (Ca) contents at the surface. Though the mechanical property of the PLGA/TCP/icaritin scaffold decreased after degradation, its porous structure was maintained, which was essential for cell migration

  16. Progesterone PLGA/mPEG-PLGA Hybrid Nanoparticle Sustained-Release System by Intramuscular Injection.

    PubMed

    Xie, Bin; Liu, Yang; Guo, Yuting; Zhang, Enbo; Pu, Chenguang; He, Haibing; Yin, Tian; Tang, Xing

    2018-02-14

    To prepare sustained-release PLGA/mPEG-PLGA hybrid nanoparticles of progesterone (PRG), and evaluate the descending required administration dosage in vivo. PRG hybrid nanoparticles (PRG H-NPs) based on PLGA/mPEG-PLGA were compared with PRG nanoparticles (PRG-NPs) of pure PLGA as the matrix and PRG-oil solutions. Nanoparticles (NPs) were formed by the method of nanoemulsion, and the pharmacokinetics of the sustained-release PRG H-NPs in male Sprague dawley (SD) rats were investigated. The rats were randomly divided into four groups, each group received: single dose of PRG H-NPs (14.58 mg/kg, i.m.) and PRG-NPs (14.58 mg/kg, i.m.), repeated dosing for 7 days of PRG-oil (2.08 mg/kg, i.m.) solution (Oil-L) and a higher dosage of PRG-oil (6.24 mg/kg, i.m.) solution (Oil-H), respectively. In the pharmacokinetic test, the PRG H-NPs exhibited a comparatively good sustained-release effect against the PRG-NPs without mPEG-PLGA and PRG-oil solution. The pharmacokinetic parameters of the PRG H-NPs, PRG-NPs, Oil-L and Oil-H were AUC 0-t (ng·h·mL -1 ) 8762.1, 1546.1, 1914.5, and 12,138.9, t 1/2 (h)52.7, 44.1, 8.4 and 44.6 respectively. Owing to the modification of PEG, PRG H-NPs can act as safe delivery platforms for sustained-release of drugs with a lower dosage required.

  17. In vitro performance of lipid-PLGA hybrid nanoparticles as an antigen delivery system: lipid composition matters.

    PubMed

    Hu, Yun; Ehrich, Marion; Fuhrman, Kristel; Zhang, Chenming

    2014-01-01

    Due to the many beneficial properties combined from both poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) and liposomes, lipid-PLGA hybrid NPs have been intensively studied as cancer drug delivery systems, bio-imaging agent carriers, as well as antigen delivery vehicles. However, the impact of lipid composition on the performance of lipid-PLGA hybrid NPs as a delivery system has not been well investigated. In this study, the influence of lipid composition on the stability of the hybrid NPs and in vitro antigen release from NPs under different conditions was examined. The uptake of hybrid NPs with various surface charges by dendritic cells (DCs) was carefully studied. The results showed that PLGA NPs enveloped by a lipid shell with more positive surface charges could improve the stability of the hybrid NPs, enable better controlled release of antigens encapsulated in PLGA NPs, as well as enhance uptake of NPs by DC.

  18. Surface Mechanical and Rheological Behaviors of Biocompatible Poly((D,L-lactic acid-ran-glycolic acid)-block-ethylene glycol) (PLGA-PEG) and Poly((D,L-lactic acid-ran-glycolic acid-ran-ε-caprolactone)-block-ethylene glycol) (PLGACL-PEG) Block Copolymers at the Air-Water Interface

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kim, Hyun Chang; Lee, Hoyoung; Khetan, Jawahar

    Air–water interfacial monolayers of poly((d,l-lactic acid-ran-glycolic acid)-block-ethylene glycol) (PLGA–PEG) exhibit an exponential increase in surface pressure under high monolayer compression. In order to understand the molecular origin of this behavior, a combined experimental and theoretical investigation (including surface pressure–area isotherm, X-ray reflectivity (XR) and interfacial rheological measurements, and a self-consistent field (SCF) theoretical analysis) was performed on air–water monolayers formed by a PLGA–PEG diblock copolymer and also by a nonglassy analogue of this diblock copolymer, poly((d,l-lactic acid-ran-glycolic acid-ran-caprolactone)-block-ethylene glycol) (PLGACL–PEG). The combined results of this study show that the two mechanisms, i.e., the glass transition of the collapsed PLGA filmmore » and the lateral repulsion of the PEG brush chains that occur simultaneously under lateral compression of the monolayer, are both responsible for the observed PLGA–PEG isotherm behavior. Upon cessation of compression, the high surface pressure of the PLGA–PEG monolayer typically relaxes over time with a stretched exponential decay, suggesting that in this diblock copolymer situation, the hydrophobic domain formed by the PLGA blocks undergoes glass transition in the high lateral compression state, analogously to the PLGA homopolymer monolayer. In the high PEG grafting density regime, the contribution of the PEG brush chains to the high monolayer surface pressure is significantly lower than what is predicted by the SCF model because of the many-body attraction among PEG segments (referred to in the literature as the “n-cluster” effects). The end-grafted PEG chains were found to be protein resistant even under the influence of the “n-cluster” effects.« less

  19. In vitro hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility of dexamethasone-eluting PLGA stent coatings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Jiang; Liu, Yang; Luo, Rifang; Chen, Si; Li, Xin; Yuan, Shuheng; Wang, Jin; Huang, Nan

    2015-02-01

    Drug-eluting stents (DESs) have been an important breakthrough for interventional cardiology applications since 2002. Though successful in reducing restenosis, some adverse clinical problems still emerged, which were mostly caused by the bare-metal stents and non-biodegradable polymer coatings, associated with the delayed endothelialization process. In this study, dexamethasone-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) coatings were developed to explore the potential application of dexamethasone-eluting stents. Dexamethasone-eluting PLGA stents were prepared using ultrasonic atomization spray method. For other tests like stability and cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility tests, dexamethasone loaded coatings were deposited on 316L SS wafers. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results demonstrated that there was no chemical reaction between PLGA and dexamethasone. The balloon expansion experiment and surface morphology observation suggested that the stent coatings were smooth and uniform, and could also withstand the compressive and tensile strains imparted without cracking after stent expansion. The drug release behavior in vitro indicated that dexamethasone existed burst release within 1 day, but it presented linear release characteristics after 6 days. In vitro platelets adhesion, activation test and APTT test were also done, which showed that after blending dexamethasone into PLGA, the hemocompatibility was improved. Besides, dexamethasone and dexamethasone-loaded PLGA coatings could significantly inhibit the attachment and proliferation of smooth muscle cells.

  20. Enhanced Cellular Cytotoxicity and Antibacterial Activity of 18-β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid by Albumin-conjugated PLGA Nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Darvishi, B; Manoochehri, S; Esfandyari-Manesh, M; Samadi, N; Amini, M; Atyabi, F; Dinarvand, R

    2015-12-01

    The aim of the present work was to encapsulate 18-β-Glycyrrhetinic acid (GLA) in albumin conjugated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles by a modified nanoprecipitation method. Nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by different drug to polymer ratios, human serum albumin (HSA) content, dithiothreitol (as producer of free thiol groups) content, and acetone (as non-solvent in nanoprecipitation). NPs with a size ranging from 126 to 174 nm were achieved. The highest entrapment efficiency (89.4±4.2%) was achieved when the ratio of drug to polymer was 1:4. The zeta potential of NPs was fairly negative (-8 to -12). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry proved the conjugation of HSA to PLGA NPs. In vitro release profile of NPs showed 2 phases: an initial burst for 4 h (34-49%) followed by a slow release pattern up to the end. The antibacterial effects of NPs against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were studied by microdilution method. The GLA-loaded NPs showed more antibacterial effect than pure GLA (2-4 times). The anticancer MTT test revealed that GLA-loaded NPs were approximately 9 times more effective than pure GLA in Hep G2 cells. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  1. In-vitro anticancer and antimicrobial activities of PLGA/silver nanofiber composites prepared by electrospinning.

    PubMed

    Almajhdi, Fahad N; Fouad, H; Khalil, Khalil Abdelrazek; Awad, Hanem M; Mohamed, Sahar H S; Elsarnagawy, T; Albarrag, Ahmed M; Al-Jassir, Fawzi F; Abdo, Hany S

    2014-04-01

    In the present work, a series of 0, 1 and 7 wt% silver nano-particles (Ag NPs) incorporated poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nano-fibers were synthesized by the electrospinning process. The PLGA/Ag nano-fibers sheets were characterized using SEM, TEM and DSC analyses. The three synthesized PLGA/silver nano-fiber composites were screened for anticancer activity against liver cancer cell line using MTT and LDH assays. The anticancer activity of PLGA nano-fibers showed a remarkable improvement due to increasing the concentration of the Ag NPs. In addition to the given result, PLGA nano-fibers did not show any cytotoxic effect. However, PLGA nano-fibers that contain 1 % nano silver showed anticancer activity of 8.8 %, through increasing the concentration of the nano silver to 7 % onto PLGA nano-fibers, the anticancer activity was enhanced to a 67.6 %. Furthermore, the antibacterial activities of these three nano-fibers, against the five bacteria strains namely; E.coli o157:H7 ATCC 51659, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 13565, Bacillus cereus EMCC 1080, Listeria monocytogenes EMCC 1875 and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC25566 using the disc diffusion method, were evaluated. Sample with an enhanced inhibitory effect was PLGA/Ag NPs (7 %) which inhibited all strains (inhibition zone diameter 10 mm); PLGA/Ag NPs (1 %) sample inhibited only one strain (B. cereus) with zone diameter 8 mm. The PLGA nano-fiber sample has not shown any antimicrobial activity. Based on the anticancer as well as the antimicrobial results in this study, it can be postulated that: PLGA nanofibers containing 7 % nano silver are suitable as anticancer- and antibiotic-drug delivery systems, as they will increase the anticancer as well as the antibiotic drug potency without cytotoxicity effect on the normal cells. These findings also suggest that Ag NPs, of the size (5-10 nm) evaluated in the present study, are appropriate for therapeutic application from a safety standpoint.

  2. Efficient Production of Retroviruses Using PLGA/bPEI-DNA Nanoparticles and Application for Reprogramming Somatic Cells

    PubMed Central

    Do, Eun Kyoung; Cheon, Hyo Cheon; Heo, Soon Chul; Kwon, Yang Woo; Jeong, Geun Ok; Kim, Ba Reun; Kim, Jae Ho

    2013-01-01

    Reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotent cells requires the introduction of factors driving fate switches. Viral delivery has been the most efficient method for generation of induced pluripotent stem cells. Transfection, which precedes virus production, is a commonly-used process for delivery of nucleic acids into cells. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of PLGA/ bPEI nanoparticles in transfection and virus production. Using a modified method of producing PLGA nanoparticles, PLGA/bPEI-DNA nanoparticles were examined for transfection efficiency and virus production yield in comparison with PLGA-DNA, bPEI-DNA nanoparticles or liposome-DNA complexes. After testing various ratios of PLGA, bPEI, and DNA, the ratio of 6:3:1 (PLGA:bPEI:DNA, w/w/w) was determined to be optimal, with acceptable cellular toxicity. PLGA/bPEI-DNA (6:3:1) nanoparticles showed superior transfection efficiency, especially in multiple gene transfection, and viral yield when compared with liposome-DNA complexes. The culture supernatants of HEK293FT cells transfected with PLGA/bPEI-DNA of viral constructs containing reprogramming factors (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, or c-Myc) successfully and more efficiently generated induced pluripotent stem cell colonies from mouse embryonic fibroblasts. These results strongly suggest that PLGA/bPEI-DNA nanoparticles can provide significant advantages in studying the effect of multiple factor delivery such as in reprogramming or direct conversion of cell fate. PMID:24098810

  3. Mn2+-coordinated PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles as a smart theranostic agent for synergistic chemo-photothermal tumor therapy.

    PubMed

    Xi, Juqun; Da, Lanyue; Yang, Changshui; Chen, Rui; Gao, Lizeng; Fan, Lei; Han, Jie

    2017-01-01

    Nanoparticle drug delivery carriers, which can implement high performances of multi-functions, are of great interest, especially for improving cancer therapy. Herein, we reported a new approach to construct Mn 2+ -coordinated doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded poly(lactic- co -glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles as a platform for synergistic chemo-photothermal tumor therapy. DOX-loaded PLGA (DOX/PLGA) nanoparticles were first synthesized through a double emulsion-solvent evaporation method, and then modified with polydopamine (PDA) through self-polymerization of dopamine, leading to the formation of PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles. Mn 2+ ions were then coordinated on the surfaces of PDA@DOX/PLGA to obtain Mn 2+ -PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles. In our system, Mn 2+ -PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles could destroy tumors in a mouse model directly, by thermal energy deposition, and could also simulate the chemotherapy by thermal-responsive delivery of DOX to enhance tumor therapy. Furthermore, the coordination of Mn 2+ could afford the high magnetic resonance (MR) imaging capability with sensitivity to temperature and pH. The results demonstrated that Mn 2+ -PDA@ DOX/PLGA nanoparticles had a great potential as a smart theranostic agent due to their imaging and tumor-growth-inhibition properties.

  4. Mn2+-coordinated PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles as a smart theranostic agent for synergistic chemo-photothermal tumor therapy

    PubMed Central

    Xi, Juqun; Da, Lanyue; Yang, Changshui; Chen, Rui; Gao, Lizeng; Fan, Lei; Han, Jie

    2017-01-01

    Nanoparticle drug delivery carriers, which can implement high performances of multi-functions, are of great interest, especially for improving cancer therapy. Herein, we reported a new approach to construct Mn2+-coordinated doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles as a platform for synergistic chemo-photothermal tumor therapy. DOX-loaded PLGA (DOX/PLGA) nanoparticles were first synthesized through a double emulsion-solvent evaporation method, and then modified with polydopamine (PDA) through self-polymerization of dopamine, leading to the formation of PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles. Mn2+ ions were then coordinated on the surfaces of PDA@DOX/PLGA to obtain Mn2+-PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles. In our system, Mn2+-PDA@DOX/PLGA nanoparticles could destroy tumors in a mouse model directly, by thermal energy deposition, and could also simulate the chemotherapy by thermal-responsive delivery of DOX to enhance tumor therapy. Furthermore, the coordination of Mn2+ could afford the high magnetic resonance (MR) imaging capability with sensitivity to temperature and pH. The results demonstrated that Mn2+-PDA@ DOX/PLGA nanoparticles had a great potential as a smart theranostic agent due to their imaging and tumor-growth-inhibition properties. PMID:28479854

  5. Enhanced Biological Functions of Human Mesenchymal Stem-Cell Aggregates Incorporating E-Cadherin-Modified PLGA Microparticles.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yan; Mao, Hongli; Gao, Chao; Li, Suhua; Shuai, Qizhi; Xu, Jianbin; Xu, Ke; Cao, Lei; Lang, Ren; Gu, Zhongwei; Akaike, Toshihiro; Yang, Jun

    2016-08-01

    Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising source of multipotent cells for various cell-based therapies due to their unique properties, and formation of 3D MSC aggregates has been explored as a potential strategy to enhance therapeutic efficacy. In this study, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles modified with human E-cadherin fusion protein (hE-cad-PLGA microparticles) have been fabricated and integrated with human MSCs to form 3D cell aggregates. The results show that, compared with the plain PLGA, the hE-cad-PLGA microparticles distribute within the aggregates more evenly and further result in a more significant improvement of cellular proliferation and secretion of a series of bioactive factors due to the synergistic effects from the bioactive E-cadherin fragments and the PLGA microparticles. Meanwhile, the hE-cad-PLGA microparticles incorporated in the aggregates upregulate the phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptors and activate the AKT and ERK1/2 signaling pathways in the MSCs. Additionally, the E-cadherin/β-catenin cellular membrane complex in the MSCs is markedly stimulated by the hE-cad-PLGA microparticles. Therefore, engineering 3D cell aggregates with hE-cad-PLGA microparticles can be a promising method for ex vivo multipotent stem-cell expansion with enhanced biological functions and may offer a novel route to expand multipotent stem-cell-based clinical applications. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  6. Molecular modeling and cytotoxicity of diffractaic acid: HP-β-CD inclusion complex encapsulated in microspheres.

    PubMed

    Silva, Camilla V N S; Barbosa, Jéssica A P; Ferraz, Milena S; Silva, Nicácio H; Honda, Neli K; Rabello, Marcelo M; Hernandes, Marcelo Z; Bezerra, Beatriz P; Cavalcanti, Isabella M F; Ayala, Alejandro P; Santos, Noemia P S; Santos-Magalhães, Nereide S

    2016-11-01

    In this pioneer study, 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was used to improve the solubility of the diffractaic acid (DA) via inclusion complex (DA:HP-β-CD). Subsequently, DA:HP-β-CD was incorporated into poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) microspheres (DA:HP-β-CD-MS). Microspheres containing DA (DA-MS) or DA:HP-β-CD (DA:HP-β-CD-MS) were prepared using the multiple W/O/W emulsion-solvent evaporation technique. The phase-solubility diagram of DA in HP-β-CD (10-50mM) showed an A L type curve with a stability constant K 1:1 =821M -1 . 1 H NMR, FTIR, X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis showed changes in the molecular environment of DA in DA:HP-β-CD. The molecular modeling approach suggests a guest-host complex formation between the carboxylic moiety of both DA and the host (HP-β-CD). The mean particle size of the microspheres were ∅ DA-MS =5.23±1.65μm and ∅ DA:HP-β-CD-MS =4.11±1.39μm, respectively. The zeta potential values of the microspheres were ζ DA-MS =-7.85±0.32mV and ζ DA:HP-β-CD-MS =-6.93±0.46mV. Moreover, the encapsulation of DA:HP-β-CD into microspheres resulted in a more slower release (k 2 =0.042±0.001; r 2 =0.996) when compared with DA-MS (k 2 =0.183±0.005; r 2 =0.996). The encapsulation of DA or DA:HP-β-CD into microspheres reduced the cytotoxicity of DA (IC 50 =43.29μM) against Vero cells (IC 50 of DA-MS=108.48μM and IC 50 of DA:HP-β-CD-MS=142.63μM). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. RGD peptide-displaying M13 bacteriophage/PLGA nanofibers as cell-adhesive matrices for smooth muscle cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shin, Yong Cheol; Lee, Jong Ho; Jin, Oh Seong; Lee, Eun Ji; Jin, Lin Hua; Kim, Chang-Seok; Hong, Suck Won; Han, Dong-Wook; Kim, Chuntae; Oh, Jin-Woo

    2015-01-01

    Extracellular matrices (ECMs) are network structures that play an essential role in regulating cellular growth and differentiation. In this study, novel nanofibrous matrices were fabricated by electrospinning M13 bacteriophage and poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and were shown to be structurally and functionally similar to natural ECMs. A genetically-engineered M13 bacteriophage was constructed to display Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptides on its surface. The physicochemical properties of RGD peptide-displaying M13 bacteriophage (RGD-M13 phage)/PLGA nanofibers were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. We used immunofluorescence staining to confirm that M13 bacteriophages were homogenously distributed in RGD-M13 phage/PLGA matrices. Furthermore, RGD-M13 phage/PLGA nanofibrous matrices, having excellent biocompatibility, can enhance the behaviors of vascular smooth muscle cells. This result suggests that RGD-M13 phage/PLGA nanofibrous matrices have potentials to serve as tissue engineering scaffolds.

  8. Semi-Degradable Scaffold for Articular Cartilage Replacement

    PubMed Central

    Charlton, DC; Peterson, MGE; Spiller, K; Lowman, A; Torzilli, PA; Maher, SA

    2009-01-01

    The challenge of designing a construct for the repair of focal cartilage defects such that it mimics the mechanical properties of and can integrate with native cartilage has not been met by existing technologies. Herein we describe a novel construct consisting of a non-degradable poly-vinyl alcohol scaffold to provide long-term mechanical stability, interconnected pores to allow for the infiltration of chondrocytes and poly-lactic glycolic acid microspheres for the incorporation of growth factors to enhance cellular migration. The objective of this study was to characterize the morphological features and mechanical properties of our porous PVA-PLGA construct as a function of PLGA content. Varying the PLGA content was found to have a significant effect on the morphological features of the construct. As PLGA content increased from 10 – 75%, samples exhibited a six-fold increase in average percent porosity, an increase in average microsphere diameter from 8 – 34 µm, and an increase in average pore diameter from 29 – 111 µm. The effect of PLGA content on Aggregate Modulus and Permeability was less profound. Our findings suggest that that morphology of the construct can be tailored to optimize cellular infiltration and the dynamic mechanical response. PMID:18333818

  9. Coseeded Schwann cells myelinate neurites from differentiated neural stem cells in neurotrophin-3-loaded PLGA carriers

    PubMed Central

    Xiong, Yi; Zhu, Ji-Xiang; Fang, Zheng-Yu; Zeng, Cheng-Guang; Zhang, Chao; Qi, Guo-Long; Li, Man-Hui; Zhang, Wei; Quan, Da-Ping; Wan, Jun

    2012-01-01

    Biomaterials and neurotrophic factors represent promising guidance for neural repair. In this study, we combined poly-(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) conduits and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) to generate NT-3-loaded PLGA carriers in vitro. Bioactive NT-3 was released stably and constantly from PLGA conduits for up to 4 weeks. Neural stem cells (NSCs) and Schwann cells (SCs) were coseeded into an NT-releasing scaffold system and cultured for 14 days. Immunoreactivity against Map2 showed that most of the grafted cells (>80%) were differentiated toward neurons. Double-immunostaining for synaptogenesis and myelination revealed the formation of synaptic structures and myelin sheaths in the coculture, which was also observed under electron microscope. Furthermore, under depolarizing conditions, these synapses were excitable and capable of releasing synaptic vesicles labeled with FM1-43 or FM4-64. Taken together, coseeding NSCs and SCs into NT-3-loaded PLGA carriers increased the differentiation of NSCs into neurons, developed synaptic connections, exhibited synaptic activities, and myelination of neurites by the accompanying SCs. These results provide an experimental basis that supports transplantation of functional neural construction in spinal cord injury. PMID:22619535

  10. Preparation of ellagic acid molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres based on distillation-precipitation polymerization for the efficient purification of a crude extract.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Hua; Zhao, Shangge; Zhang, Lu; Han, Bo; Yao, Xincheng; Chen, Wen; Hu, Yanli

    2016-08-01

    Molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres with a high recognition ability toward the template molecule, ellagic acid, were synthesized based on distillation-precipitation polymerization. The as-obtained polymers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Static, dynamic, and selective binding tests were adopted to study the binding properties and the molecular recognition ability of the prepared polymers for ellagic acid. The results indicated that the maximum static adsorption capacity of the prepared polymers toward ellagic acid was 37.07 mg/g and the adsorption equilibrium time was about 100 min when the concentration of ellagic acid was 40 mg/mL. Molecularly imprinted polymeric microspheres were also highly selective toward ellagic acid compared with its analogue quercetin. It was found that the content of ellagic acid in the pomegranate peel extract was enhanced from 23 to 86% after such molecularly imprinted solid-phase extraction process. This work provides an efficient way for effective separation and enrichment of ellagic acid from complex matrix, which is especially valuable in industrial production. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Polysorbate 80-coated PLGA nanoparticles improve the permeability of acetylpuerarin and enhance its brain-protective effects in rats.

    PubMed

    Sun, Deqing; Xue, Aiying; Zhang, Bin; Lou, Haiyan; Shi, Huanying; Zhang, Xiumei

    2015-12-01

    Acetylpuerarin (AP) is an acetylated derivative of puerarin (PUE). The study aimed to prepare polysorbate 80-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles to improve the permeability of AP across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and enhance its brain-protective effects. AP-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (AP-PLGA-NPs) were prepared using a solvent diffusion methodology. The NPs were characterized. The pharmacokinetics, tissue distributions and brain-protective effects of AP-PLGA-NPs were evaluated in animals. AP-PLGA-NPs were successfully prepared with a mean particle size of 145.0 nm and a zeta potential of -14.81 mV. The in-vitro release of AP from the PLGA-NPs showed a biphasic release profile. AP was metabolized into PUE in rats. The AUC0-∞ values of AP and PUE for AP-PLGA-NPs were 2.90- and 2.29-fold as great as those for AP solution, respectively. The values of the relative targeting efficiency in the brain were 2.40 and 2.58 for AP and PUE, and the ratios of peak concentration were 1.91 and 1.89 for AP and PUE, respectively. Compared with the crude drug, AP-PLGA-NPs showed better brain-protective effects in rats. Polysorbate 80-coated PLGA-NPs can improve the permeability of AP cross the BBB and enhance its brain-protective effects in rats. © 2015 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

  12. Enhanced intracellular delivery and controlled drug release of magnetic PLGA nanoparticles modified with transferrin.

    PubMed

    Cui, Yan-Na; Xu, Qing-Xing; Davoodi, Pooya; Wang, De-Ping; Wang, Chi-Hwa

    2017-06-01

    Owing to the presence of multidrug resistance in tumor cells, conventional chemotherapy remains clinically intractable. To enhance the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents, targeting strategies based on magnetic polymeric nanoparticles modified with targeting ligands have gained significant attention in cancer therapy. In this study, we synthesized transferrin (Tf)-modified poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) loaded with paclitaxel (PTX) and superparamagnetic nanoparticle (MNP) using a solid-in-oil-in-water solvent evaporation method, followed by Tf adsorption on the surface of NPs. The Tf-modified magnetic PLGA NPs were characterized in terms of particle morphology and size, magnetic properties, encapsulation efficiency and drug release. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of the drug-loaded magnetic PLGA NPs were evaluated in both MCF-7 breast cancer and U-87 glioma cells in vitro. We found that Tf-modified PTX-MNP-PLGA NPs showed the highest cytotoxicity effect and cellular uptake efficiency under Tf receptor mediation in both MCF-7 and U-87 cells compared to unmodified PLGA NPs and free PTX. The cellular uptake efficiency of Tf-modified magnetic PLGA NPs appeared to be facilitated by the applied magnetic field, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. This study illustrates that this proposed formulation can be used as one new alternative treatment for patients bearing inaccessible tumors.

  13. Enhanced intracellular delivery and controlled drug release of magnetic PLGA nanoparticles modified with transferrin

    PubMed Central

    Cui, Yan-na; Xu, Qing-xing; Davoodi, Pooya; Wang, De-ping; Wang, Chi-Hwa

    2017-01-01

    Owing to the presence of multidrug resistance in tumor cells, conventional chemotherapy remains clinically intractable. To enhance the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents, targeting strategies based on magnetic polymeric nanoparticles modified with targeting ligands have gained significant attention in cancer therapy. In this study, we synthesized transferrin (Tf)-modified poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) loaded with paclitaxel (PTX) and superparamagnetic nanoparticle (MNP) using a solid-in-oil-in-water solvent evaporation method, followed by Tf adsorption on the surface of NPs. The Tf-modified magnetic PLGA NPs were characterized in terms of particle morphology and size, magnetic properties, encapsulation efficiency and drug release. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of the drug-loaded magnetic PLGA NPs were evaluated in both MCF-7 breast cancer and U-87 glioma cells in vitro. We found that Tf-modified PTX-MNP-PLGA NPs showed the highest cytotoxicity effect and cellular uptake efficiency under Tf receptor mediation in both MCF-7 and U-87 cells compared to unmodified PLGA NPs and free PTX. The cellular uptake efficiency of Tf-modified magnetic PLGA NPs appeared to be facilitated by the applied magnetic field, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. This study illustrates that this proposed formulation can be used as one new alternative treatment for patients bearing inaccessible tumors. PMID:28552909

  14. Preparation of rotigotine-loaded microspheres and their combination use with L-DOPA to modify dyskinesias in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats.

    PubMed

    Wang, Aiping; Wang, Lexi; Sun, Kaoxiang; Liu, Wanhui; Sha, Chunjie; Li, Youxin

    2012-09-01

    To prepare rotigotine loaded microspheres (RoMS) to achieve continuous dopaminergic stimulation (CDS) for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) and investigate both the therapeutic benefit and inducibility of AIMs of administration of RoMS combination with L-DOPA in 6-OHDA-leisioned rats. Rotigotine was encapsulated into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres by an oil-in-water emulsion solvent evaporation technique. In vitro characteristics and in vivo pharmacokinetics of RoMS either in rat blood or brain (by microdialysis) were investigated. Contraversive rotations and AIMs were observed to investigate the therapeutic benefit and the propensity to induce dyskinesia of RoMS or RoMS combination with L-DOPA in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats. RoMS displayed continuous-release characteristics of rotigotine in animals and exhibited a steady efficacy lasted for 2 weeks in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats. No significant difference of the therapeutic benefit between the treatment of RoMS and pulsatile L-DOPA combination and mono L-DOPA was found. While the dyskinesia was significantly decreased with the treatment of RoMS and pulsatile L-DOPA combination compared to mono L-DOPA. RoMS could supply an alternative of CDS for the treatment of PD and the study indicates a potential advantage of RoMS for the treatment of mild and advanced PD patient in combination with L-DOPA.

  15. PLGA nanoparticles for the oral delivery of nuciferine: preparation, physicochemical characterization and in vitro/in vivo studies.

    PubMed

    Liu, Ying; Wu, Xin; Mi, Yushuai; Zhang, Bimeng; Gu, Shengying; Liu, Gaolin; Li, Xiaoyu

    2017-11-01

    This article reports a promising approach to enhance the oral delivery of nuciferine (NUC), improve its aqueous solubility and bioavailability, and allow its controlled release as well as inhibiting lipid accumulation. NUC-loaded poly lactic-co-glycolic acid nanoparticles (NUC-PLGA-NPs) were prepared according to a solid/oil/water (s/o/w) emulsion technique due to the water-insolubility of NUC. PLGA exhibited excellent loading capacity for NUC with adjustable dosing ratios. The drug loading and encapsulation efficiency of optimized formulation were 8.89 ± 0.71 and 88.54 ± 7.08%, respectively. NUC-PLGA-NPs exhibited a spherical morphology with average size of 150.83 ± 5.72 nm and negative charge of -22.73 ± 1.63 mV, which are suitable for oral administration. A sustained NUC released from NUC-PLGA-NPs with an initial exponential release owing to the surface associated drug followed by a slower release of NUC, which was entrapped in the core. In addition, ∼77 ± 6.67% was released in simulating intestinal juice, while only about 45.95 ± 5.2% in simulating gastric juice. NUC-PLGA-NPs are more efficient against oleic acid (OA)-induced hepatic steatosis in HepG 2 cells when compared to naked NUC (n-NUC, *p < 0.05). The oral bioavailability of NUC-PLGA-NPs group was significantly higher (**p < 0.01) and a significantly decreased serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), as well as a higher concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was observed, compared with that of n-NUC treated group. These findings suggest that NUC-PLGA-NPs hold great promise for sustained and controlled drug delivery with improved bioavailability to alleviating lipogenesis.

  16. Endostar-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles: in vitro and in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Hu, Sanyuan; Zhang, Yangde

    2010-11-24

    Endostar, a novel recombinant human endostatin, which was approved by the Chinese State Food and Drug Administration in 2005, has a broad spectrum of activity against solid tumors. In this study, we aimed to determine whether the anticancer effect of Endostar is increased by using a nanocarrier system. It is expected that the prolonged circulation of endostar will improve its anticancer activity. Endostar-loaded nanoparticles were prepared to improve controlled release of the drug in mice and rabbits, as well as its anticancer effects in mice with colon cancer. A protein release system could be exploited to act as a drug carrier. Nanoparticles were formulated from poly (ethylene glycol) modified poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PEG-PLGA) by a double emulsion technique. Physical and release characteristics of endostar-loaded nanoparticles in vitro were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS), and micro bicinchoninic acid protein assay. The pharmacokinetic parameters of endostar nanoparticles in rabbit and mice plasma were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Western blot was used to detect endostatin in different tissues. To study the effects of endostar-loaded nanoparticles in vivo, nude mice in which tumor cells HT-29 were implanted, were subsequently treated with endostar or endostar-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles. Using TEM and PCS, endostar-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles were found to have a spherical core-shell structure with a diameter of 169.56 ± 35.03 nm. Drug-loading capacity was 8.22% ± 2.35% and drug encapsulation was 80.17% ± 7.83%. Compared with endostar, endostar-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles had a longer elimination half-life and lower peak concentration, caused slower growth of tumor cell xenografts, and prolonged tumor doubling times. The nanoparticles changed the pharmacokinetic characteristics of endostar in mice and rabbits, thereby reinforcing anticancer activity. In conclusion, PEG-PLGA

  17. Biodegradable microsphere-mediated cell perforation in microfluidic channel using femtosecond laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ishii, Atsuhiro; Ariyasu, Kazumasa; Mitsuhashi, Tatsuki; Heinemann, Dag; Heisterkamp, Alexander; Terakawa, Mitsuhiro

    2016-05-01

    The use of small particles has expanded the capability of ultrashort pulsed laser optoinjection technology toward simultaneous treatment of multiple cells. The microfluidic platform is one of the attractive systems that has obtained synergy with laser-based technology for cell manipulation, including optoinjection. We have demonstrated the delivery of molecules into suspended-flowing cells in a microfluidic channel by using biodegradable polymer microspheres and a near-infrared femtosecond laser pulse. The use of polylactic-co-glycolic acid microspheres realized not only a higher optoinjection ratio compared to that with polylactic acid microspheres but also avoids optical damage to the microfluidic chip, which is attributable to its higher optical intensity enhancement at the localized spot under a microsphere. Interestingly, optoinjection ratios to nucleus showed a difference for adhered cells and suspended cells. The use of biodegradable polymer microspheres provides high throughput optoinjection; i.e., multiple cells can be treated in a short time, which is promising for various applications in cell analysis, drug delivery, and ex vivo gene transfection to bone marrow cells and stem cells without concerns about residual microspheres.

  18. Biological evaluation of 5-fluorouracil nanoparticles for cancer chemotherapy and its dependence on the carrier, PLGA

    PubMed Central

    Nair K, Lekha; Jagadeeshan, Sankar; Nair, S Asha; Kumar, GS Vinod

    2011-01-01

    Nanoscaled devices have great potential for drug delivery applications due to their small size. In the present study, we report for the first time the preparation and evaluation of antitumor efficacy of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-entrapped poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles with dependence on the lactide/glycolide combination of PLGA. 5-FU-loaded PLGA nanoparticles with two different monomer combinations, 50-50 and 90-10 were synthesized using a modified double emulsion method, and their biological evaluation was done in glioma (U87MG) and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) cell lines. 5-FU-entrapped PLGA 50-50 nanoparticles showed smaller size with a high encapsulation efficiency of 66%, which was equivalent to that of PLGA 90-10 nanoparticles. Physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles using differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction suggested the presence of 5-FU in molecular dispersion form. In vitro release studies showed the prolonged and sustained release of 5-FU from nanoparticles with both the PLGA combinations, where PLGA 50-50 nanoparticles showed faster release. Nanoparticles with PLGA 50-50 combination exhibited better cytotoxicity than free drug in a dose- and time-dependent manner against both the tumor cell lines. The enhanced efficiency of PLGA 50-50 nanoparticles to induce apoptosis was indicated by acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. Cell cycle perturbations studied using flow cytometer showed better S-phase arrest by nanoparticles in comparison with free 5-FU. All the results indicate that PLGA 50-50 nanoparticles possess better antitumor efficacy than PLGA 90-10 nanoparticles and free 5-FU. Since, studies have shown that long-term exposure of ailing tissues to moderate drug concentrations is more favorable than regular administration of higher concentration of the drug; our results clearly indicate the potential of 5-FU-loaded PLGA nanoparticles with dependence on carrier combination as controlled release

  19. Thermodynamic Insights and Conceptual Design of Skin-Sensitive Chitosan Coated Ceramide/PLGA Nanodrug for Regeneration of Stratum Corneum on Atopic Dermatitis

    PubMed Central

    Jung, Sang-Myung; Yoon, Gwang Heum; Lee, Hoo Chul; Jung, Moon Hee; Yu, Sun Il; Yeon, Seung Ju; Min, Seul Ki; Kwon, Yeo Seon; Hwang, Jin Ha; Shin, Hwa Sung

    2015-01-01

    Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex skin disease primarily characterized by psoriasis of the stratum corneum. AD drugs have usually been used in acidic and hydrophilic solvents to supply moisture and prevent lipid defects. Ceramide is a typical treatment agent to regenerate the stratum corneum and relieve symptoms of AD. However, ceramide has limitation on direct use for skin because of its low dispersion properties in hydrophilic phase and side effects at excessive treatment. In this study, ceramide imbedded PLGA nanoparticles were developed with chitosan coating (Chi-PLGA/Cer) to overcome this problem. The chitosan coating enhanced initial adherence to the skin and prevented the initial burst of ceramide, but was degraded by the weakly acidic nature of skin, resulting in controlled release of ceramide with additional driving force of the squeezed PLGA nanoparticles. Additionally, the coating kinetics of chitosan were controlled by manipulating the reaction conditions and then mathematically modeled. The Chi-PLGA/Cer was not found to be cytotoxic and ceramide release was controlled by pH, temperature, and chitosan coating. Finally, Chi-PLGA/Cer was demonstrated to be effective at stratum corneum regeneration in a rat AD model. Overall, the results presented herein indicated that Chi-PLGA/Cer is a novel nanodrug for treatment of AD. PMID:26666701

  20. Polymeric microspheres

    DOEpatents

    Walt, David R.; Mandal, Tarun K.; Fleming, Michael S.

    2004-04-13

    The invention features core-shell microsphere compositions, hollow polymeric microspheres, and methods for making the microspheres. The microspheres are characterized as having a polymeric shell with consistent shell thickness.

  1. Preparation and characterization of biodegradable magnetic carriers by single emulsion-solvent evaporation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Xianqiao; Kaminski, Michael D.; Riffle, Judy S.; Chen, Haitao; Torno, Michael; Finck, Martha R.; Taylor, LaToyia; Rosengart, Axel J.

    2007-04-01

    This paper describes a single emulsion-solvent evaporation protocol to prepare PEGylated biodegradable/biocompatible magnetic carriers by utilizing hydrophobic magnetite and a mixture of poly( D,L lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and poly(lactic acid-block-polyethylene glycol) (PLA-PEG) (26:1 by mass) polymers. We characterized the magnetic microspheres in terms of morphology, composite microstructure, size and size distribution, and magnetic properties. Results show that the preparation produces magnetic microspheres with a good spherical morphology, small size (mean diameter of 1.2-1.5 μm) by means of large size distributions, and magnetizations up to 20-30 emu/g of microspheres.

  2. Surface modification of PLGA nanoparticles via human serum albumin conjugation for controlled delivery of docetaxel

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) based nanoparticles are considered to be a promising drug carrier in tumor targeting but suffer from the high level of opsonization by reticuloendothelial system due to their hydrophobic structure. As a result surface modification of these nanoparticles has been widely studied as an essential step in their development. Among various surface modifications, human serum albumin (HSA) possesses advantages including small size, hydrophilic surface and accumulation in leaky vasculature of tumors through passive targeting and a probable active transport into tumor tissues. Methods PLGA nanoparticles of docetaxel were prepared by emulsification evaporation method and were surface conjugated with human serum albumin. Fourier transform infrared spectrum was used to confirm the conjugation reaction where nuclear magnetic resonance was utilized for conjugation ratio determination. In addition, transmission electron microscopy showed two different contrast media in conjugated nanoparticles. Furthermore, cytotoxicity of free docetaxel, unconjugated and conjugated PLGA nanoparticles was studied in HepG2 cells. Results Size, zeta potential and drug loading of PLGA nanoparticles were about 199 nm, −11.07 mV, and 4%, respectively where size, zeta potential and drug loading of conjugated nanoparticles were found to be 204 nm, −5.6 mV and 3.6% respectively. Conjugated nanoparticles represented a three-phasic release pattern with a 20% burst effect for docetaxel on the first day. Cytotoxicity experiment showed that the IC50 of HSA conjugated PLGA nanoparticles (5.4 μg) was significantly lower than both free docetaxel (20.2 μg) and unconjugated PLGA nanoparticles (6.2 μg). Conclusion In conclusion surface modification of PLGA nanoparticles through HSA conjugation results in more cytotoxicity against tumor cell lines compared with free docetaxel and unconjugated PLGA nanoparticles. Albumin conjugated PLGA nanoparticles may

  3. Peptide/protein vaccine delivery system based on PLGA particles.

    PubMed

    Allahyari, Mojgan; Mohit, Elham

    2016-03-03

    Due to the excellent safety profile of poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) particles in human, and their biodegradability, many studies have focused on the application of PLGA particles as a controlled-release vaccine delivery system. Antigenic proteins/peptides can be encapsulated into or adsorbed to the surface of PLGA particles. The gradual release of loaded antigens from PLGA particles is necessary for the induction of efficient immunity. Various factors can influence protein release rates from PLGA particles, which can be defined intrinsic features of the polymer, particle characteristics as well as protein and environmental related factors. The use of PLGA particles encapsulating antigens of different diseases such as hepatitis B, tuberculosis, chlamydia, malaria, leishmania, toxoplasma and allergy antigens will be described herein. The co-delivery of antigens and immunostimulants (IS) with PLGA particles can prevent the systemic adverse effects of immunopotentiators and activate both dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NKs) cells, consequently enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of antigen-loaded PLGA particles. We will review co-delivery of different TLR ligands with antigens in various models, highlighting the specific strengths and weaknesses of the system. Strategies to enhance the immunotherapeutic effect of DC-based vaccine using PLGA particles can be designed to target DCs by functionalized PLGA particle encapsulating siRNAs of suppressive gene, and disease specific antigens. Finally, specific examples of cellular targeting where decorating the surface of PLGA particles target orally administrated vaccine to M-cells will be highlighted.

  4. Peptide/protein vaccine delivery system based on PLGA particles

    PubMed Central

    Allahyari, Mojgan; Mohit, Elham

    2016-01-01

    abstract Due to the excellent safety profile of poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) particles in human, and their biodegradability, many studies have focused on the application of PLGA particles as a controlled-release vaccine delivery system. Antigenic proteins/peptides can be encapsulated into or adsorbed to the surface of PLGA particles. The gradual release of loaded antigens from PLGA particles is necessary for the induction of efficient immunity. Various factors can influence protein release rates from PLGA particles, which can be defined intrinsic features of the polymer, particle characteristics as well as protein and environmental related factors. The use of PLGA particles encapsulating antigens of different diseases such as hepatitis B, tuberculosis, chlamydia, malaria, leishmania, toxoplasma and allergy antigens will be described herein. The co-delivery of antigens and immunostimulants (IS) with PLGA particles can prevent the systemic adverse effects of immunopotentiators and activate both dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NKs) cells, consequently enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of antigen-loaded PLGA particles. We will review co-delivery of different TLR ligands with antigens in various models, highlighting the specific strengths and weaknesses of the system. Strategies to enhance the immunotherapeutic effect of DC-based vaccine using PLGA particles can be designed to target DCs by functionalized PLGA particle encapsulating siRNAs of suppressive gene, and disease specific antigens. Finally, specific examples of cellular targeting where decorating the surface of PLGA particles target orally administrated vaccine to M-cells will be highlighted. PMID:26513024

  5. Cartilage repair using mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) sheet and MSCs-loaded bilayer PLGA scaffold in a rabbit model.

    PubMed

    Qi, Yiying; Du, Yi; Li, Weixu; Dai, Xuesong; Zhao, Tengfei; Yan, Weiqi

    2014-06-01

    The integration of regenerated cartilage with surrounding native cartilage is a major challenge for the success of cartilage tissue-engineering strategies. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether incorporation of the power of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) sheet to MSCs-loaded bilayer poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds can improve the integration and repair of cartilage defects in a rabbit model. Rabbit bone marrow-derived MSCs were cultured and formed cell sheet. Full-thickness cylindrical osteochondral defects (4 mm in diameter, 3 mm in depth) were created in the patellar groove of 18 New Zealand white rabbits and the osteochondral defects were treated with PLGA scaffold (n = 6), PLGA/MSCs (n = 6) or MSC sheet-encapsulated PLGA/MSCs (n = 6). After 6 and 12 weeks, the integration and tissue response were evaluated histologically. The MSC sheet-encapsulated PLGA/MCSs group showed significantly more amounts of hyaline cartilage and higher histological scores than PLGA/MSCs group and PLGA group (P < 0.05). In addition, the MSC sheet-encapsulated PLGA/MCSs group showed the best integration between the repaired cartilage and surrounding normal cartilage and subchondral bone compared to other two groups. The novel method of incorporation of MSC sheet to PLGA/MCSs could enhance the ability of cartilage regeneration and integration between repair cartilage and the surrounding cartilage. Transplantation of autologous MSC sheet combined with traditional strategies or cartilage debris might provide therapeutic opportunities for improving cartilage regeneration and integration in humans.

  6. PLGA-loaded nanomedicines in melanoma treatment: Future prospect for efficient drug delivery

    PubMed Central

    Das, Sreemanti; Khuda-Bukhsh, Anisur Rahman

    2016-01-01

    Current treatment methods for melanoma have some limitations such as less target-specific action, severe side effects and resistance to drugs. Significant progress has been made in exploring novel drug delivery systems based on suitable biochemical mechanisms using nanoparticles ranging from 10 to 400 nm for drug delivery and imaging, utilizing their enhanced penetration and retention properties. Poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA), a copolymer of poly-lactic acid and poly-glycolic acid, provides an ideally suited performance-based design for better penetration into skin cells, thereby having a greater potential for the treatment of melanoma. Moreover, encapsulation protects the drug from deactivation by biological reactions and interactions with biomolecules, ensuring successful delivery and bioavailability for effective treatment. Controlled and sustained delivery of drugs across the skin barrier that otherwise prohibits entry of larger molecules can be successfully made with adequately stable biocompatible nanocarriers such as PLGA for taking drugs through the small cutaneous pores permitting targeted deposition and prolonged drug action. PLGA is now being extensively used in photodynamic therapy and targeted therapy through modulation of signal proteins and drug-DNA interactions. Recent advances made on these nanomedicines and their advantages in the treatment of skin melanoma are highlighted and discussed in this review. PMID:27934796

  7. Novel PLGA-based nanoparticles for the oral delivery of insulin.

    PubMed

    Malathi, Sampath; Nandhakumar, Perumal; Pandiyan, Velayudham; Webster, Thomas J; Balasubramanian, Sengottuvelan

    2015-01-01

    Insulin is the drug therapy for patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. A number of attempts have been made in the past to overcome the problems associated with the oral delivery of insulin, but with little success. Orally administered insulin has encountered with many difficulties such as rapid degradation and poor intestinal absorption. The potential use of D-α-tocopherol poly(ethylene glycol) 1000 succinate (TPGS)-emulsified poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-capped poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) was investigated for sustained delivery of insulin (IS). To investigate the efficacy of TPGS-emulsified PEG-capped PLGA NPs (TPPLG NPs) as a potential drug carrier for the oral delivery of insulin. A series of biodegradable low-molecular-weight PLGA (80/20 [PLG4] and 70/30 [PLG6]) copolymers were synthesized by melt polycondensation. The commercial insulin-loaded TPGS-emulsified PEG-capped PLGA NPs (ISTPPLG NPs) were synthesized by water-oil-water emulsion solvent evaporation method. The physical and chemical properties of PLGA copolymers, particle size, zeta potential, and morphology of the NPs were examined. The in vivo studies of ISTPPLG NPs were carried out in diabetic rats by oral administration. The maximum encapsulation efficiency of ISTPPLG6 NPs was 78.6% ± 1.2%, and the mean diameter of the NPs was 180 ± 20 nm. The serum glucose level was significantly (twofold) decreased on treatment with ISTPPLG NPs, and there was a threefold decrease with insulin-loaded PLGA (70/30) NPs when compared to that of free insulin-treated diabetic rats. The results show that the oral administration of ISTPPLG6 NPs is an effective method of reducing serum glucose level for a period of 24 hours. Histopathological studies reveal that ISTPPLG NPs could restore the damage caused by streptozotocin in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, indicating its biocompatibility and regenerative effects. ISTPPLG6 NPs can act as potential drug carriers for the oral

  8. Novel PLGA-based nanoparticles for the oral delivery of insulin

    PubMed Central

    Malathi, Sampath; Nandhakumar, Perumal; Pandiyan, Velayudham; Webster, Thomas J; Balasubramanian, Sengottuvelan

    2015-01-01

    Background Insulin is the drug therapy for patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. A number of attempts have been made in the past to overcome the problems associated with the oral delivery of insulin, but with little success. Orally administered insulin has encountered with many difficulties such as rapid degradation and poor intestinal absorption. The potential use of D-α-tocopherol poly(ethylene glycol) 1000 succinate (TPGS)-emulsified poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-capped poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) was investigated for sustained delivery of insulin (IS). Objective To investigate the efficacy of TPGS-emulsified PEG-capped PLGA NPs (TPPLG NPs) as a potential drug carrier for the oral delivery of insulin. Methods A series of biodegradable low-molecular-weight PLGA (80/20 [PLG4] and 70/30 [PLG6]) copolymers were synthesized by melt polycondensation. The commercial insulin-loaded TPGS-emulsified PEG-capped PLGA NPs (ISTPPLG NPs) were synthesized by water–oil–water emulsion solvent evaporation method. The physical and chemical properties of PLGA copolymers, particle size, zeta potential, and morphology of the NPs were examined. The in vivo studies of ISTPPLG NPs were carried out in diabetic rats by oral administration. Results The maximum encapsulation efficiency of ISTPPLG6 NPs was 78.6%±1.2%, and the mean diameter of the NPs was 180±20 nm. The serum glucose level was significantly (twofold) decreased on treatment with ISTPPLG NPs, and there was a threefold decrease with insulin-loaded PLGA (70/30) NPs when compared to that of free insulin-treated diabetic rats. The results show that the oral administration of ISTPPLG6 NPs is an effective method of reducing serum glucose level for a period of 24 hours. Histopathological studies reveal that ISTPPLG NPs could restore the damage caused by streptozotocin in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, indicating its biocompatibility and regenerative effects. Conclusion ISTPPLG6 NPs can

  9. Hyaluronic acid-decorated dual responsive nanoparticles of Pluronic F127, PLGA, and chitosan for targeted co-delivery of doxorubicin and irinotecan to eliminate cancer stem-like cells

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Hai; Agarwal, Pranay; Zhao, Shuting; Xu, Ronald X.; Yu, Jianhua; Lu, Xiongbin; He, Xiaoming

    2016-01-01

    Dual responsive nanoparticles are developed for co-delivery of multiple anticancer drugs to target the drug resistance mechanisms of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). The nanoparticles consist of four polymers approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for medical use: Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), Pluronic F127 (PF127), chitosan, and hyaluronic acid (HA). By combining PLGA and PF127 together, more stable and uniform-sized nanoparticles can be obtained than using PLGA or PF127 alone. The HA is used for not only actively targeting CSCs to reduce their drug resistance due to dormancy (i.e., slow metabolism), but also replacing the commonly used poly(vinyl alcohol) as a stabilizing agent to synthesize the nanoparticles using the double-emulsion approach and to allow for acidic pH-triggered drug release and thermal responsiveness. Besides minimizing drug efflux from CSCs, the nanoparticles encapsulated with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX, hydrophilic) and irinotecan (CPT, hydrophobic) to inhibit the activity of topoisomerases II and I, respectively, can fight against the CSC drug resistance associated with their enhanced DNA repair and anti-apoptosis. Ultimately, the two drugs-laden nanoparticles can be used to efficiently destroy the CSCs both in vitro and in vivo with up to ~500 times of enhancement compared to the simple mixture of the two drugs. PMID:26344365

  10. Cell-adhesive RGD peptide-displaying M13 bacteriophage/PLGA nanofiber matrices for growth of fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Shin, Yong Cheol; Lee, Jong Ho; Jin, Linhua; Kim, Min Jeong; Oh, Jin-Woo; Kim, Tai Wan; Han, Dong-Wook

    2014-01-01

    M13 bacteriophages can be readily fabricated as nanofibers due to non-toxic bacterial virus with a nanofiber-like shape. In the present study, we prepared hybrid nanofiber matrices composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, PLGA) and M13 bacteriophages which were genetically modified to display the RGD peptide on their surface (RGD-M13 phage). The surface morphology and chemical composition of hybrid nanofiber matrices were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy, respectively. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted to investigate the existence of M13 bacteriophages in RGD-M13 phage/PLGA hybrid nanofibers. In addition, the attachment and proliferation of three different types of fibroblasts on RGD-M13 phage/PLGA nanofiber matrices were evaluated to explore how fibroblasts interact with these matrices. SEM images showed that RGD-M13 phage/PLGA hybrid matrices had the non-woven porous structure, quite similar to that of natural extracellular matrices, having an average fiber diameter of about 190 nm. Immunofluorescence images and Raman spectra revealed that RGD-M13 phages were homogeneously distributed in entire matrices. Moreover, the attachment and proliferation of fibroblasts cultured on RGD-M13 phage/PLGA matrices were significantly enhanced due to enriched RGD moieties on hybrid matrices. These results suggest that RGD-M13 phage/PLGA matrices can be efficiently used as biomimetic scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.

  11. Preparation and Characterization of Fluorescent SiO2 Microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Cui; Zhang, Hao; Guan, Ruifang

    2018-01-01

    Fluorescent compound without typical fluorophores was synthesized with citric acid (CA) and aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) firstly, and then it was grafted to the surface of the prepared SiO2 microspheres by chemical reaction. The fluorescent SiO2 microspheres with good fluorescent properties were obtained by optimizing the reaction conditions. And the morphology and structure of the fluorescent SiO2 microspheres have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results showed that the preparation of fluorescent SiO2 microspheres have good monodispersity and narrow particle size distribution. Moreover, the fluorescent SiO2 microspheres can be applied to detect Fe3+ in aqueous solution, prepare fluorescent SiO2 rubber, and have potential to be applied in the fluorescent labeling and fingerprint appearing technique fields.

  12. PLGA particulate delivery systems for subunit vaccines: Linking particle properties to immunogenicity.

    PubMed

    Silva, A L; Soema, P C; Slütter, B; Ossendorp, F; Jiskoot, W

    2016-04-02

    Among the emerging subunit vaccines are recombinant protein- and synthetic peptide-based vaccine formulations. However, proteins and peptides have a low intrinsic immunogenicity. A common strategy to overcome this is to co-deliver (an) antigen(s) with (an) immune modulator(s) by co-encapsulating them in a particulate delivery system, such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles. Particulate PLGA formulations offer many advantages for antigen delivery as they are biocompatible and biodegradable; can protect the antigens from degradation and clearance; allow for co-encapsulation of antigens and immune modulators; can be targeted to antigen presenting cells; and their particulate nature can increase uptake and cross-presentation by mimicking the size and shape of an invading pathogen. In this review we discuss the pros and cons of using PLGA particulate formulations for subunit vaccine delivery and provide an overview of formulation parameters that influence their adjuvanticity and the ensuing immune response.

  13. Delivery of multiple siRNAs using lipid-coated PLGA nanoparticles for treatment of prostate cancer.

    PubMed

    Hasan, Warefta; Chu, Kevin; Gullapalli, Anuradha; Dunn, Stuart S; Enlow, Elizabeth M; Luft, J Christopher; Tian, Shaomin; Napier, Mary E; Pohlhaus, Patrick D; Rolland, Jason P; DeSimone, Joseph M

    2012-01-11

    Nanotechnology can provide a critical advantage in developing strategies for cancer management and treatment by helping to improve the safety and efficacy of novel therapeutic delivery vehicles. This paper reports the fabrication of poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid)/siRNA nanoparticles coated with lipids for use as prostate cancer therapeutics made via a unique soft lithography particle molding process called Particle Replication In Nonwetting Templates (PRINT). The PRINT process enables high encapsulation efficiency of siRNA into neutral and monodisperse PLGA particles (32-46% encapsulation efficiency). Lipid-coated PLGA/siRNA PRINT particles were used to deliver therapeutic siRNA in vitro to knockdown genes relevant to prostate cancer. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  14. Ternary Aligned Nanofibers of RGD Peptide-Displaying M13 Bacteriophage/PLGA/Graphene Oxide for Facilitated Myogenesis

    PubMed Central

    Shin, Yong Cheol; Kim, Chuntae; Song, Su-Jin; Jun, Seungwon; Kim, Chang-Seok; Hong, Suck Won; Hyon, Suong-Hyu; Han, Dong-Wook; Oh, Jin-Woo

    2018-01-01

    Recently, there have been tremendous efforts to develop the biofunctional scaffolds by incorporating various biochemical factors. In the present study, we fabricated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanofiber sheets decorated with graphene oxide (GO) and RGD peptide. The decoration of GO and RGD peptide was readily achieved by using RGD peptide-displaying M13 bacteriophage (RGD-M13 phage) and electrospinning. Furthermore, the aligned GO-decorated PLGA/RGD peptide (GO-PLGA/RGD) ternary nanofiber sheets were prepared by magnetic field-assisted electrospinning, and their potentials as bifunctional scaffolds for facilitating myogenesis were explored. We characterized the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the sheets by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, contact angle measurement, and tensile test. In addition, the C2C12 skeletal myoblasts were cultured on the aligned GO-PLGA/RGD nanofiber sheets, and their cellular behaviors, including initial attachment, proliferation and myogenic differentiation, were evaluated. Our results revealed that the GO-PLGA/RGD nanofiber sheets had suitable physicochemical and mechanical properties for supporting cell growth, and could significantly promote the spontaneous myogenic differentiation of C2C12 skeletal myoblasts. Moreover, it was revealed that the myogenic differentiation was further accelerated on the aligned GO-PLGA/RGD nanofiber sheets due to the synergistic effects of RGD peptide, GO and aligned nanofiber structure. Therefore, , it is suggested that the aligned GO-PLGA/RGD ternary nanofiber sheets are one of the most promising approaches for facilitating myogenesis and promoting skeletal tissue regeneration. PMID:29577018

  15. Ternary Aligned Nanofibers of RGD Peptide-Displaying M13 Bacteriophage/PLGA/Graphene Oxide for Facilitated Myogenesis.

    PubMed

    Shin, Yong Cheol; Kim, Chuntae; Song, Su-Jin; Jun, Seungwon; Kim, Chang-Seok; Hong, Suck Won; Hyon, Suong-Hyu; Han, Dong-Wook; Oh, Jin-Woo

    2018-01-01

    Recently, there have been tremendous efforts to develop the biofunctional scaffolds by incorporating various biochemical factors. In the present study, we fabricated poly(lactic- co -glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanofiber sheets decorated with graphene oxide (GO) and RGD peptide. The decoration of GO and RGD peptide was readily achieved by using RGD peptide-displaying M13 bacteriophage (RGD-M13 phage) and electrospinning. Furthermore, the aligned GO-decorated PLGA/RGD peptide (GO-PLGA/RGD) ternary nanofiber sheets were prepared by magnetic field-assisted electrospinning, and their potentials as bifunctional scaffolds for facilitating myogenesis were explored. We characterized the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the sheets by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, contact angle measurement, and tensile test. In addition, the C2C12 skeletal myoblasts were cultured on the aligned GO-PLGA/RGD nanofiber sheets, and their cellular behaviors, including initial attachment, proliferation and myogenic differentiation, were evaluated. Our results revealed that the GO-PLGA/RGD nanofiber sheets had suitable physicochemical and mechanical properties for supporting cell growth, and could significantly promote the spontaneous myogenic differentiation of C2C12 skeletal myoblasts. Moreover, it was revealed that the myogenic differentiation was further accelerated on the aligned GO-PLGA/RGD nanofiber sheets due to the synergistic effects of RGD peptide, GO and aligned nanofiber structure. Therefore, , it is suggested that the aligned GO-PLGA/RGD ternary nanofiber sheets are one of the most promising approaches for facilitating myogenesis and promoting skeletal tissue regeneration.

  16. PLGA-based drug delivery systems: importance of the type of drug and device geometry.

    PubMed

    Klose, D; Siepmann, F; Elkharraz, K; Siepmann, J

    2008-04-16

    Different types of ibuprofen- and lidocaine-loaded, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based microparticles and thin, free films of various dimensions were prepared and physico-chemically characterized in vitro. The obtained experimental results were analyzed using mathematical theories based on Fick's second law of diffusion. Importantly, the initial drug loadings were low in all cases (4%, w/w), simplifying the mathematical treatment and minimizing potential effects of the acidic/basic nature of the two model drugs on polymer degradation. Interestingly, the type of drug and device geometry strongly affected the resulting release kinetics and relative importance of the involved mass transport mechanisms. For instance, the relative release rate was almost unaffected by the system size in the case of spherical microparticles, but strongly depended on the thickness of thin, free films, irrespective of the type of drug. Ibuprofen and lidocaine release was found to be primarily diffusion controlled from the investigated PLGA-based microparticles for all system sizes, whereas diffusion was only dominant in the case of the thinnest free films. Interestingly, the type of drug did not significantly affect the resulting polymer degradation kinetics. However, ibuprofen release was always much faster than lidocaine release for all system geometries and sizes. This can probably be attributed to attractive ionic interactions between protonated, positively charged lidocaine ions and negatively charged, deprotonated carboxylic end groups of PLGA, hindering drug diffusion. The determined apparent diffusion coefficients of the drugs clearly point out that the mobility of an active agent in PLGA-based delivery systems does not only depend on its own physico-chemical properties and the type of PLGA used, but also to a large extent on the size and shape of the device. This has to be carefully taken into account when developing/optimizing this type of advanced drug delivery systems.

  17. PLGA/liposome hybrid nanoparticles for short-chain ceramide delivery.

    PubMed

    Zou, Peng; Stern, Stephan T; Sun, Duxin

    2014-03-01

    Rapid premature release of lipophilic drugs from liposomal lipid bilayer to plasma proteins and biological membranes is a challenge for targeted drug delivery. The purpose of this study is to reduce premature release of lipophilic short-chain ceramides by encapsulating ceramides into liposomal aqueous interior with the aid of poly (lactic-coglycolicacid) (PLGA). BODIPY FL labeled ceramide (FL-ceramide) and BODIPY-TR labeled ceramide (TR-ceramide) were encapsulated into carboxy-terminated PLGA nanoparticles. The negatively charged PLGA nanoparticles were then encapsulated into cationic liposomes to obtain PLGA/liposome hybrids. As a control, FL-ceramide and/or TR ceramide co-loaded liposomes without PLGA were prepared. The release of ceramides from PLGA/liposome hybrids and liposomes in rat plasma, cultured MDA-MB-231 cells, and rat blood circulation was compared using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between FL-ceramide (donor) and TR-ceramide (acceptor). FRET analysis showed that FL-ceramide and TR-ceramide in liposomal lipid bilayer were rapidly released during incubation with rat plasma. In contrast, the FL-ceramide and TR-ceramide in PLGA/liposome hybrids showed extended release. FRET images of cells revealed that ceramides in liposomal bilayer were rapidly transferred to cell membranes. In contrast, ceramides in PLGA/liposome hybrids were internalized into cells with nanoparticles simultaneously. Upon intravenous administration to rats, ceramides encapsulated in liposomal bilayer were completely released in 2 min. In contrast, ceramides encapsulated in the PLGA core were retained in PLGA/liposome hybrids for 4 h. The PLGA/liposome hybrid nanoparticles reduced in vitro and in vivo premature release of ceramides and offer a viable platform for targeted delivery of lipophilic drugs.

  18. PLGA/liposome hybrid nanoparticles for short-chain ceramide delivery

    PubMed Central

    Zou, Peng; Stern, Stephan T.; Sun, Duxin

    2014-01-01

    Purpose Rapid premature release of lipophilic drugs from liposomal lipid bilayer to plasma proteins and biological membranes is a challenge for targeted drug delivery. The purpose of this study is to reduce premature release of lipophilic short-chain ceramides by encapsulating ceramides into liposomal aqueous interior with the aid of poly( lactic-coglycolicacid) (PLGA). Methods BODIPY FL labeled ceramide (FL-ceramide) and BODIPY-TR labeled ceramide (TR-ceramide) were encapsulated into carboxy-terminated PLGA nanoparticles. The negatively charged PLGA nanoparticles were then encapsulated into cationic liposomes to obtain PLGA/liposome hybrids. As a control, FL-ceramide and/or TR ceramide co-loaded liposomes without PLGA were prepared. The release of ceramides from PLGA/liposome hybrids and liposomes in rat plasma, cultured MDA-MB-231 cells, and rat blood circulation was compared using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between FL-ceramide (donor) and TR-ceramide (acceptor). Results FRET analysis showed that FL-ceramide and TR-ceramide in liposomal lipid bilayer were rapidly released during incubation with rat plasma. In contrast, the FL-ceramide and TR-ceramide in PLGA/liposome hybrids showed extended release. FRET images of cells revealed that ceramides in liposomal bilayer were rapidly transferred to cell membranes. In contrast, ceramides in PLGA/liposome hybrids were internalized into cells with nanoparticles simultaneously. Upon intravenous administration to rats, ceramides encapsulated in liposomal bilayer were completely released in 2 minutes. In contrast, ceramides encapsulated in the PLGA core were retained in PLGA/liposome hybrids for 4 hours. Conclusions The PLGA/liposome hybrid nanoparticles reduced in vitro and in vivo premature release of ceramides and offer a viable platform for targeted delivery of lipophilic drugs. PMID:24065591

  19. In Vitro Evaluation of the Biological Responses of Canine Macrophages Challenged with PLGA Nanoparticles Containing Monophosphoryl Lipid A.

    PubMed

    Guldner, Delphine; Hwang, Julianne K; Cardieri, Maria Clara D; Eren, Meaghan; Ziaei, Parissa; Norton, M Grant; Souza, Cleverson D

    2016-01-01

    Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) have been considerably studied as a promising biodegradable delivery system to induce effective immune responses and to improve stability, safety, and cost effectiveness of vaccines. The study aimed at evaluating early inflammatory effects and cellular safety of PLGA NPs, co-encapsulating ovalbumin (PLGA/OVA NPs), as a model antigen and the adjuvant monophosphoryl lipid A (PLGA/MPLA NPs) as an adjuvant, on primary canine macrophages. The PLGA NPs constructs were prepared following the emulsion-solvent evaporation technique and further physic-chemically characterized. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from canine whole blood by magnetic sorting and further cultured to generate macrophages. The uptake of PLGA NP constructs by macrophages was demonstrated by flow cytometry, transmission electron microscopy and confocal microscopy. Macrophage viability and morphology were evaluated by trypan blue exclusion and light microscopy. Macrophages were immunophenotyped for the expression of MHC-I and MHC-II and gene expression of Interleukin-10 (IL-10), Interleukin-12 (IL-12p40), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured. The results showed that incubation of PLGA NP constructs with macrophages revealed effective early uptake of the PLGA NPs without altering the viability of macrophages. PLGA/OVA/MPLA NPs strongly induced TNF-α and IL-12p40 expression by macrophages as well as increase relative expression of MHC-I but not MHC-II molecules. Taken together, these results indicated that PLGA NPs with addition of MPLA represent a good model, when used as antigen carrier, for further, in vivo, work aiming to evaluate their potential to induce strong, specific, immune responses in dogs.

  20. Design of smart GE11-PLGA/PEG-PLGA blend nanoparticulate platforms for parenteral administration of hydrophilic macromolecular drugs: synthesis, preparation and in vitro/ex vivo characterization.

    PubMed

    Colzani, Barbara; Speranza, Giovanna; Dorati, Rossella; Conti, Bice; Modena, Tiziana; Bruni, Giovanna; Zagato, Elisa; Vermeulen, Lotte; Dakwar, George R; Braeckmans, Kevin; Genta, Ida

    2016-09-25

    Active drug targeting and controlled release of hydrophilic macromolecular drugs represent crucial points in designing efficient polymeric drug delivery nanoplatforms. In the present work EGFR-targeted polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles were made by a blend of two different PLGA-based polymers. The first, GE11-PLGA, in which PLGA was functionalized with GE11, a small peptide and EGFR allosteric ligand, able to give nanoparticles selective targeting features. The second polymer was a PEGylated PLGA (PEG-PLGA) aimed at improving nanoparticles hydrophilicity and stealth features. GE11 and GE11-PLGA were custom synthetized through a simple and inexpensive method. The nanoprecipitation technique was exploited for the preparation of polymeric nanoparticles composed by a 1:1weight ratio between GE11-PLGA and PEG-PLGA, obtaining smart nanoplatforms with proper size for parenteral administration (143.9±5.0nm). In vitro cellular uptake in EGFR-overexpressing cell line (A549) demonstrated an active internalization of GE11-functionalized nanoparticles. GE11-PLGA/PEG-PLGA blend nanoparticles were loaded with Myoglobin, a model hydrophilic macromolecule, reaching a good loading (2.42% respect to the theoretical 4.00% w/w) and a prolonged release over 60days. GE11-PLGA/PEG-PLGA blend nanoparticles showed good in vitro stability for 30days in physiological saline solution at 4°C and for 24h in pH 7.4 or pH 5.0 buffer at 37°C respectively, giving indications about potential storage and administration conditions. Furthermore ex vivo stability study in human plasma using fluorescence Single Particle Tracking (fSPT) assessed good GE11-PLGA/PEG-PLGA nanoparticles dimensional stability after 1 and 4h. Thanks to the versatility in polymeric composition and relative tunable nanoparticles features in terms of drug incorporation and release, GE11-PLGA/PEG-PLGA blend NPs can be considered highly promising as smart nanoparticulate platforms for the treatment of diseases

  1. Electrospinning of PLGA/gum tragacanth nanofibers containing tetracycline hydrochloride for periodontal regeneration.

    PubMed

    Ranjbar-Mohammadi, Marziyeh; Zamani, M; Prabhakaran, M P; Bahrami, S Hajir; Ramakrishna, S

    2016-01-01

    Controlled drug release is a process in which a predetermined amount of drug is released for longer period of time, ranging from days to months, in a controlled manner. In this study, novel drug delivery devices were fabricated via blend electrospinning and coaxial electrospinning using poly lactic glycolic acid (PLGA), gum tragacanth (GT) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) as a hydrophilic model drug in different compositions and their performance as a drug carrier scaffold was evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that fabricated PLGA, blend PLGA/GT and core shell PLGA/GT nanofibers had a smooth and bead-less morphology with the diameter ranging from 180 to 460 nm. Drug release studies showed that both the fraction of GT within blend nanofibers and the core-shell structure can effectively control TCH release rate from the nanofibrous membranes. By incorporation of TCH into core-shell nanofibers, drug release was sustained for 75 days with only 19% of burst release within the first 2h. The prolonged drug release, together with proven biocompatibility, antibacterial and mechanical properties of drug loaded core shell nanofibers make them a promising candidate to be used as drug delivery system for periodontal diseases. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Synthesis and characterisation of multifunctional alginate microspheres via the in situ formation of ZnO quantum dots and the graft of 4-(1-pyrenyl) butyric acid to sodium alginate.

    PubMed

    Luo, Guilin; Wang, Jianxin; Wang, Yingying; Feng, Bo; Weng, Jie

    2015-01-01

    Growth factor-loaded fluorescent alginate microspheres, which can realise sustained growth factor release and fluorescence imaging, were synthesised by in situ formation of ZnO quantum dots (QDs) and covalent graft of 4-(1-pyrenyl) butyric acid (PBA). BSA was chosen as a growth factor model protein to study the release kinetic of growth factors from alginate microspheres. The microsphere size and fluorescent properties were also investigated. Investigations of cell culture were used for evaluating biocompatibility of BSA-loaded fluorescent microspheres and fluorescence imaging property of ZnO QDs and PBA-grafted sodium alginate from the microspheres. The results show that they have good fluorescent property either to microspheres or to cells and fluorescent microspheres have good biocompatibility and property in sustained release of growth factors. The obtained microspheres will be expected to realise the imaging of cells and materials and also the release of growth factor in tissue engineering or in cell culture.

  3. Cytotoxicity and intracellular fate of PLGA and chitosan-coated PLGA nanoparticles in Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Colo 205) cells.

    PubMed

    Trif, Mihaela; Florian, Paula E; Roseanu, Anca; Moisei, Magdalena; Craciunescu, Oana; Astete, Carlos E; Sabliov, Cristina M

    2015-11-01

    Polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) are known to facilitate intracellular uptake of drugs to improve their efficacy, with minimum bioreactivity. The goal of this study was to assess cellular uptake and trafficking of PLGA NPs and chitosan (Chi)-covered PLGA NPs in Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Colo 205) cells. Both PLGA and Chi-PLGA NPs were not cytotoxic to the studied cells at concentrations up to 2500 μg/mL. The positive charge conferred by the chitosan deposition on the PLGA NPs improved NPs uptake by MDBK cells. In this cell line, Chi-PLGA NPs colocalized partially with early endosomes compartment and showed a more consistent perinuclear localization than PLGA NPs. Kinetic uptake of PLGA NPs by Colo 205 was slower than that by MDBK cells, detected only at 24 h, exceeding that of Chi-PLGA NPs. This study offers new insights on NP interaction with target cells supporting the use of NPs as novel nutraceuticals/drug delivery systems in metabolic disorders or cancer therapy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3599-3611, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  4. Fabrication aspects of PLA-CaP/PLGA-CaP composites for orthopedic applications: a review.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Huan; Lawrence, Joseph G; Bhaduri, Sarit B

    2012-07-01

    For several decades, composites made of polylactic acid-calcium phosphates (PLA-CaP) and polylactic acid-co-glycolic acid-calcium phosphates (PLGA-CaP) have seen widespread uses in orthopedic applications. This paper reviews the fabrication aspects of these composites, following the ubiquitous materials science approach by studying "processing-structure-property" correlations. Various fabrication processes such as microencapsulation, phase separation, electrospinning, supercritical gas foaming, etc., are reviewed, with specific examples of their applications in fabricating these composites. The effect of the incorporation of CaP materials on the mechanical and biological performance of PLA/PLGA is addressed. In addition, this paper describes the state of the art on challenges and innovations concerning CaP dispersion, incorporation of biomolecules/stem cells and long-term degradation of the composites. Copyright © 2012 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. PLGA/PFC particles loaded with gold nanoparticles as dual contrast agents for photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Yan J.; Strohm, Eric M.; Sun, Yang; Niu, Chengcheng; Zheng, Yuanyi; Wang, Zhigang; Kolios, Michael C.

    2014-03-01

    Phase-change contrast agents consisting of a perfluorocarbon (PFC) liquid core stabilized by a lipid, protein, or polymer shell have been proposed for a variety of clinical applications. Previous work has demonstrated that vaporization can be induced by laser irradiation through optical absorbers incorporated inside the droplet. In this study, Poly-lactide-coglycolic acid (PLGA) particles loaded with PFC liquid and silica-coated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were developed and characterized using photoacoustic (PA) methods. Microsized PLGA particles were loaded with PFC liquid and GNPs (14, 35, 55nm each with a 20nm silica shell) using a double emulsion method. The PA signal intensity and optical vaporization threshold were investigated using a 375 MHz transducer and a focused 532-nm laser (up to 450-nJ per pulse). The laser-induced vaporization threshold energy decreased with increasing GNP size. The vaporization threshold was 850, 690 and 420 mJ/cm2 for 5μm-sized PLGA particles loaded with 14, 35 and 55 nm GNPs, respectively. The PA signal intensity increased as the laser fluence increased prior to the vaporization event. This trend was observed for all particles sizes. PLGA particles were then incubated with MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells for 6 hours to investigate passive targeting, and the vaporization of the PLGA particles that were internalized within cells. The PLGA particles passively internalized by MDA cells were visualized via confocal fluorescence imaging. Upon PLGA particle vaporization, bubbles formed inside the cells resulting in cell destruction. This work demonstrates that GNPs-loaded PLGA/PFC particles have potential as PA theranostic agents in PA imaging and optically-triggered drug delivery systems.

  6. Temozolomide-loaded PLGA nanoparticles to treat glioblastoma cells: a biophysical and cell culture evaluation.

    PubMed

    Ananta, Jeyarama S; Paulmurugan, Ramasamy; Massoud, Tarik F

    2016-01-01

    Current chemotherapies for brain glioblastoma do not achieve sufficient drug concentrations within tumors. Polymeric nanoparticles have useful physicochemical properties that make them promising as nanoparticle platforms for glioblastoma drug delivery. Poly[lactic-co-glycolic acid] (PLGA) nanoparticles encapsulating temozolomide (TMZ) could improve localized delivery and sustained drug release to glioblastomas. We investigated three different procedures to encapsulate TMZ within PLGA nanoparticles. We studied the biophysical features of optimized nanocarriers, including their size, shape, surface properties, and release characteristics of TMZ. We evaluated the antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects of TMZ-loaded PLGA nanoparticles on U87 MG glioblastoma cells. A single emulsion technique using a TMZ saturated aqueous phase produced nanoparticles ≤200 nm in size allowing a maximal drug loading of 4.4% w/w of polymer. There was a bi-phasic drug release pattern, with 80% of TMZ released within the first 6 h. Nanoparticles accumulated in the cytoplasm after effective endocytosis. There was no significant difference in cytotoxic effect of TMZ encapsulated within PLGA nanoparticles and free TMZ. PLGA nanoparticles are not suitable as carriers of TMZ for glioblastoma drug delivery on account of the overall high IC50 values of glioblastoma cells to TMZ and poor loading and encapsulation efficiencies. Further biotechnological developments aimed at improving the loading of TMZ in PLGA nanoparticles or co-delivery of small molecule sensitizers to improve the response of human glioblastoma cells to TMZ are required for this approach to be considered and optimized for future clinical translation.

  7. SPHRINT - Printing Drug Delivery Microspheres from Polymeric Melts.

    PubMed

    Shpigel, Tal; Uziel, Almog; Lewitus, Dan Y

    2018-06-01

    This paper describes a simple, straightforward, and rapid method for producing microspheres from molten polymers by merely printing them in an inkjet-like manner onto a superoleophobic surface (microsphere printing, hence SPHRINT). Similar to 3D printing, a polymer melt is deposited onto a surface; however, in contrast to 2D or 3D printing, the surface is not wetted (i.e. exhibiting high contact angles with liquids, above 150°, due to its low surface energy), resulting in the formation of discrete spherical microspheres. In this study, microspheres were printed using polycaprolactone and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) loaded with a model active pharmaceutical ingredient-ibuprofen (IBU). The formation of microspheres was captured by high-speed imaging and was found to involve several physical phenomena characterized by non-dimensional numbers, including the thinning and breakup of highly viscous, weakly elastic filaments, which are first to be described in pure polymer melts. The resulting IBU-loaded microspheres had higher sphericity, reproducible sizes and shapes, and superior drug encapsulation efficiencies with a distinctly high process yield (>95%) as compared to the conservative solvent-based methods used presently. Furthermore, the microspheres showed sustained release profiles. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Mesoporous metal oxide microsphere electrode compositions and their methods of making

    DOEpatents

    Paranthaman, Mariappan Parans; Liu, Hansan; Brown, Gilbert M.; Sun, Xiao-Guang; Bi, Zhonghe

    2016-12-06

    Compositions and methods of making are provided for mesoporous metal oxide microspheres electrodes. The mesoporous metal oxide microsphere compositions comprise (a) microspheres with an average diameter between 200 nanometers (nm) and 10 micrometers (.mu.m); (b) mesopores on the surface and interior of the microspheres, wherein the mesopores have an average diameter between 1 nm and 50 nm and the microspheres have a surface area between 50 m.sup.2/g and 500 m.sup.2/g. The methods of making comprise forming composite powders. The methods may also comprise refluxing the composite powders in a basic solution to form an etched powder, washing the etched powder with an acid to form a hydrated metal oxide, and heat-treating the hydrated metal oxide to form mesoporous metal oxide microspheres.

  9. Combination of PLGA nanoparticles with mucoadhesive guar-gum films for buccal delivery of antihypertensive peptide.

    PubMed

    Castro, Pedro M; Baptista, Patrícia; Madureira, Ana Raquel; Sarmento, Bruno; Pintado, Manuela E

    2018-05-22

    Oral administration of proteins and peptides still is a challenging task to overcome due to low permeability through absorptive epithelia, degradation and metabolism that lead to poor bioavailability. Attempting to overcome such limitations, an antihypertensive peptide derived from whey protein, with KGYGGVSLPEW sequence, was incorporated for the first time into polymeric nanoparticles. An experimental design was followed in order to optimize drug-loading, association efficiency, mean particle size, zeta-potential and polydispersity index of a formulation of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles as carriers for bioactive peptides. In sequence, peptide-loaded PLGA nanoparticles were incorporated in a guar-gum film matrix, resulting in a combined delivery system aiming to promote slow release and permeation across buccal epithelium. Neither PLGA nanoparticles, guar-gum films nor the conjugation of PLGA nanoparticles and guar-gum films (GfNp) significantly compromised in vitro TR146 human buccal carcinoma cell line viability after 12 h contact, as assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide reduction assay (MTT). In vitro release assay for developed formulations allowed to conclude that the combination of orodispersible film and nanoparticles granted a slower release of AhP when compared with PLGA or guar-gum films alone or with control. GfNp offered more effective, synergistic, in vitro permeation of TR146 cell multilayer in comparison with guar-gum films or PLGA nanoparticles alone. The combination of PLGA nanoparticles with guar-gum films represent a suitable alternative to conventional per os delivery systems, leading to an increased buccal permeability of carried antihypertensive peptide. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Diclofenac salts, part 6: release from lipid microspheres.

    PubMed

    Fini, Adamo; Cavallari, Cristina; Rabasco Alvarez, Antonio M; Rodriguez, Marisa Gonzalez

    2011-08-01

    The release of diclofenac (20%, w/w) was studied from lipidic solid dispersions using three different chemical forms (acid, sodium salt, and pyrrolidine ethanol salt) and two different lipid carriers (Compritol 888 ATO or Carnauba wax) either free or together with varying amounts (10%-30%, w/w) of stearic acid. Microspheres were prepared by ultrasound-assisted atomization of the molten dispersions and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and hot stage microscopy. The effects of different formulations on the resulting drug release profiles as a function of pH were studied and the results were discussed. The formulation of the 18 systems and the chemical form of the drug were found to strongly affect the mode of the drug release. The solubility of the chemical forms in the lipid mixture is in the following order: pyrrolidine ethanol salt ≫ acid > sodium salt (according to the solubility parameters), and the nature of the systems thus obtained ranges from a matrix, for mutually soluble drug/carrier pairs, to a microcapsule, for pairs wherein mutual solubility is poor. Drug release from microspheres prepared by pure lipids was primarily controlled by diffusion, whereas the release from microspheres containing stearic acid was diffusion/erosion controlled at pH 7.4. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  11. Surface modification of paclitaxel-loaded tri-block copolymer PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA nanoparticles with protamine for liver cancer therapy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gao, Nansha; Chen, Zhihong; Xiao, Xiaojun; Ruan, Changshun; Mei, Lin; Liu, Zhigang; Zeng, Xiaowei

    2015-08-01

    In order to enhance the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy on liver cancer, a biodegradable formulation of protamine-modified paclitaxel-loaded poly(lactide- co-glycolide)- b-poly(ethylene glycol)- b-poly(lactide- co-glycolide) (PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA) nanoparticles (PTX-loaded/protamine NPs) was prepared. Tri-block copolymer PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization and characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. PTX-loaded and PTX-loaded/protamine NPs were characterized in terms of size, size distribution, zeta potential, surface morphology, drug encapsulation efficiency, and drug release. Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that coumarin 6-loaded/protamine NPs were internalized by hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2. The cellular uptake efficiency of NPs was obviously elevated after protamine modification. With commercial formulation Taxol® as the reference, HepG2 cells were also used to study the cytotoxicity of the NPs. PTX-loaded/protamine NPs exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity than PTX-loaded NPs and Taxol® did. All the results suggested that surface modification of PTX-loaded PLGA- b-PEG- b-PLGA NPs with protamine boosted the therapeutic efficacy on liver cancer.

  12. Target-specific cellular uptake of PLGA nanoparticles coated with poly(L-lysine)-poly(ethylene glycol)-folate conjugate.

    PubMed

    Kim, Sun Hwa; Jeong, Ji Hoon; Chun, Ki Woo; Park, Tae Gwan

    2005-09-13

    Poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles with anionic surface charge were surface coated with cationic di-block copolymer, poly(L-lysine)-poly(ethylene glycol)-folate (PLL-PEG-FOL) conjugate, for enhancing their site-specific intracellular delivery against folate receptor overexpressing cancer cells. The PLGA nanoparticles coated with the conjugate were characterized in terms of size, surface charge, and change in surface composition by XPS. By employing the flow cytometry method and confocal image analysis, the extent of cellular uptake was comparatively evaluated under various conditions. PLL-PEG-FOL coated PLGA nanoparticles demonstrated far greater extent of cellular uptake to KB cells, suggesting that they were mainly taken up by folate receptor-mediated endocytosis. The enhanced cellular uptake was also observed even in the presence of serum proteins, possibly due to the densely seeded PEG chains. The PLL-PEG-FOL coated PLGA nanoparticles could be potentially applied for cancer cell targeted delivery of various therapeutic agents.

  13. Microsphere-based gradient implants for osteochondral regeneration: a long-term study in sheep

    PubMed Central

    Mohan, Neethu; Gupta, Vineet; Sridharan, Banu Priya; Mellott, Adam J; Easley, Jeremiah T; Palmer, Ross H; Galbraith, Richard A; Key, Vincent H; Berkland, Cory J; Detamore, Michael S

    2015-01-01

    Background: The microfracture technique for cartilage repair has limited ability to regenerate hyaline cartilage. Aim: The current study made a direct comparison between microfracture and an osteochondral approach with microsphere-based gradient plugs. Materials & methods: The PLGA-based scaffolds had opposing gradients of chondroitin sulfate and β-tricalcium phosphate. A 1-year repair study in sheep was conducted. Results: The repair tissues in the microfracture were mostly fibrous and had scattered fissures with degenerative changes. Cartilage regenerated with the gradient plugs had equal or superior mechanical properties; had lacunated cells and stable matrix as in hyaline cartilage. Conclusion: This first report of gradient scaffolds in a long-term, large animal, osteochondral defect demonstrated potential for equal or better cartilage repair than microfracture. PMID:26418471

  14. Improved design and characterization of PLGA/PLA-coated Chitosan based micro-implants for controlled release of hydrophilic drugs.

    PubMed

    Manna, Soumyarwit; Donnell, Anna M; Kaval, Necati; Al-Rjoub, Marwan F; Augsburger, James J; Banerjee, Rupak K

    2018-05-29

    Repetitive intravitreal injections of Methotrexate (MTX), a hydrophilic chemotherapeutic drug, are currently used to treat selected vitreoretinal (VR) diseases, such as intraocular lymphoma. To avoid complications associated with the rapid release of MTX from the injections, a Polylactic acid (PLA) and Chitosan (CS)-based MTX micro-implant prototype was fabricated in an earlier study, which showed a sustained therapeutic release rate of 0.2-2.0 µg/day of MTX for a period ∼1 month in vitro and in vivo. In the current study, different combinations of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)/PLA coatings were used for lipophilic surface modification of the CS-MTX micro-implant, such as PLGA 5050, PLGA 6535 and PLGA 7525 (PLA: PGA - 50:50, 65:35, 75:25, respectively; M.W: 54,400 - 103,000) and different PLA, such as PLA 100 and PLA 250 (MW: 102,000 and 257,000, respectively). This improved the duration of total MTX release from the coated CS-MTX micro-implants to ∼3-5 months. With an increase in PLA content in PLGA and molecular weight of PLA, a) the initial burst of MTX and the mean release rate of MTX can be reduced; and b) the swelling and biodegradation of the micro-implants can be delayed. The controlled drug release mechanism is caused by a combination of diffusion process and hydrolysis of the polymer coating, which can be modulated by a) PLA content in PLGA and b) molecular weight of PLA, as inferred from Korsmeyer Peppas model, Zero order, First order and Higuchi model fits. This improved micro-implant formulation has the potential to serve as a platform for controlled release of hydrophilic drugs to treat selected VR diseases. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  15. Evaluation of a combined drug-delivery system for proteins assembled with polymeric nanoparticles and porous microspheres; characterization and protein integrity studies.

    PubMed

    Alcalá-Alcalá, Sergio; Benítez-Cardoza, Claudia G; Lima-Muñoz, Enrique J; Piñón-Segundo, Elizabeth; Quintanar-Guerrero, David

    2015-07-15

    This work presents an evaluation of the adsorption/infiltration process in relation to the loading of a model protein, α-amylase, into an assembled biodegradable polymeric system, free of organic solvents and made up of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) acid (PLGA). Systems were assembled in a friendly aqueous medium by adsorbing and infiltrating polymeric nanoparticles into porous microspheres. These assembled systems are able to load therapeutic amounts of the drug through adsorption of the protein onto the large surface area characteristic of polymeric nanoparticles. The subsequent infiltration of nanoparticles adsorbed with the protein into porous microspheres enabled the controlled release of the protein as a function of the amount of infiltrated nanoparticles, since the surface area available on the porous structure is saturated at different levels, thus modifying the protein release rate. Findings were confirmed by both the BET technique (N2 isotherms) and in vitro release studies. During the adsorption process, the pH of the medium plays an important role by creating an environment that favors adsorption between the surfaces of the micro- and nano-structures and the protein. Finally, assays of α-amylase activity using 2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl-α-D-maltotrioside (CNP-G3) as the substrate and the circular dichroism technique confirmed that when this new approach was used no conformational changes were observed in the protein after release. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. L-Valine appended PLGA nanoparticles for oral insulin delivery.

    PubMed

    Jain, Ashish; Jain, Sanjay K

    2015-08-01

    Oral insulin delivery has been the major research issue, since many decades, due to several obvious advantages over other routes. However, this route poses several constraints for the delivery of peptides and proteins which are to be worked upon. The small intestine has been shown to be able to transport the L-forms of amino acids against a concentration gradient and that they compete for the mechanism concerned. So, L-valine was used as a ligand for carrier-mediated transport of insulin-loaded polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). L-Valine-conjugated PLGA nanoparticles were prepared using double emulsion solvent evaporation method. The NPs and conjugated NPs were characterized for their size, drug entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, polydispersity index and in vitro insulin release. Ex vivo studies on intestine revealed that conjugated nanoparticles showed greater insulin uptake as compared to non-conjugated nanoparticles. In vivo studies were performed on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rabbits. Oral suspension of insulin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles reduced blood glucose level from 265.4 ± 8.5 to 246.6 ± 2.4 mg/dL within 4 h which further decreased to 198.7 ± 7.1 mg/dL value after 8 h. The ligand-conjugated formulation on oral administration produced hypoglycaemic effect (216.9 ± 1.9 mg/dL) within 4 h of administration, and the hypoglycaemic effect prolonged till 12 h of oral administration. Simultaneously, the insulin concentration in withdrawn samples was also assessed and found that profile of insulin level is in compliance with the blood glucose reduction profile. Hence, it is concluded that the L-valine-conjugated NPs bearing insulin are the promising carrier for the transportation of insulin across the intestine on oral administration.

  17. Polyphosphazene/Nano-Hydroxyapatite Composite Microsphere Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering

    PubMed Central

    Nukavarapu, Syam P.; Kumbar, Sangamesh G.; Brown, Justin L.; Krogman, Nicholas R.; Weikel, Arlin L.; Hindenlang, Mark D.; Nair, Lakshmi S.; Allcock, Harry R; Laurencin, Cato T.

    2009-01-01

    The non-toxic, neutral degradation products of amino acid ester polyphosphazenes make them ideal candidates for in vivo orthopaedic applications. The quest for new osteocompatible materials for load bearing tissue engineering applications has led us to investigate mechanically competent amino acid ester substituted polyphosphazenes. In this study, we have synthesized three biodegradable polyphosphazenes substituted with side groups namely leucine, valine and phenylalanine ethyl esters. Of these polymers, the phenylalanine ethyl ester substituted polyphosphazene showed the highest glass transition temperature (41.6 °C) and hence was chosen as a candidate material for forming composite microspheres with 100 nm sized hydroxyapatite (nHAp). The fabricated composite microspheres were sintered into a three-dimensional (3-D) porous scaffold by adopting a dynamic solvent sintering approach. The composite microsphere scaffolds showed compressive moduli of 46–81 MPa with mean pore diameters in the range of 86–145 µm. The three-dimensional polyphosphazene-nHAp composite microsphere scaffolds showed good osteoblast cell adhesion, proliferation and alkaline phosphatase expression, and are potential suitors for bone tissue engineering applications. PMID:18517248

  18. Protein functionalized tramadol-loaded PLGA nanoparticles: preparation, optimization, stability and pharmacodynamic studies.

    PubMed

    Lalani, Jigar; Rathi, Mohan; Lalan, Manisha; Misra, Ambikanandan

    2013-06-01

    Poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide acid) (PLGA) Nanoparticles (NPs) with sustained drug release and enhanced circulation time presents widely explored non-invasive approach for drug delivery to brain. However, blood-brain barrier (BBB) limits the drug delivery to brain. This can be overcome by anchoring endogenous ligand like Transferrin (Tf) and Lactoferrin (Lf) on the surface of NPs, allowing efficient brain delivery via receptor-mediated endocytosis. The aim of the present investigation was preparation, optimization, characterization and comparative evaluation of targeting efficiency of Tf- vs. Lf-conjugated NPs. Tramadol-loaded PLGA NPs were prepared by nanoprecipitation techniques and optimized using 3(3) factorial design. The effect of polymer concentration, stabilizer concentration and organic:aqueous phase ratio were evaluated on particle size (PS) and entrapment efficiency (EE). The formulation was optimized based on desirability for lower PS (<150 nm) and higher EE (>70%). Optimized PLGA NPs were conjugated with Tf and Lf, characterized and evaluated for stability study. Pharmacodynamic study was performed in rat after intravenous administration. The optimized formulation had 100 mg of PLGA, 1% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and 1:2 acetone:water ratio. The Lf and Tf conjugation to PLGA NPs was estimated to 186 Tf and 185 Lf molecules per NPs. Lyophilization was optimized at 1:2 ratio of NPs:trehalose. The NPs were found stable for 6 months at refrigerated condition. Pharmacodynamic study demonstrated enhanced efficacy of ligand-conjugated NPs against unconjugated NPs. Conjugated NPs demonstrated significantly higher pharmacological effect over a period of 24 h. Furthermore Lf functionalized NPs exhibited better antinociceptive effect as compared to Tf functionalized NPs.

  19. Controlled dexamethasone delivery via double-walled microspheres to enhance long-term adipose tissue retention

    PubMed Central

    Kelmendi-Doko, Arta; Rubin, J Peter; Klett, Katarina; Mahoney, Christopher; Wang, Sheri; Marra, Kacey G

    2017-01-01

    Current materials used for adipose tissue reconstruction have critical shortcomings such as suboptimal volume retention, donor-site morbidity, and poor biocompatibility. The aim of this study was to examine a controlled delivery system of dexamethasone to generate stable adipose tissue when mixed with disaggregated human fat in an athymic mouse model for 6 months. The hypothesis that the continued release of dexamethasone from polymeric microspheres would enhance both adipogenesis and angiogenesis more significantly when compared to the single-walled microsphere model, resulting in long-term adipose volume retention, was tested. Dexamethasone was encapsulated within single-walled poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres (Dex SW MS) and compared to dexamethasone encapsulated in a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) core surrounded by a shell of poly-l-lactide. The double-walled polymer microsphere system in the second model was developed to create a more sustainable drug delivery process. Dexamethasone-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres (Dex SW MS) and dexamethasone-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/poly-l-lactide double-walled microspheres (Dex DW MS) were prepared using single and double emulsion/solvent techniques. In vitro release kinetics were determined. Two doses of each type of microsphere were examined; 50 and 27 mg of Dex MS and Dex DW MS were mixed with 0.3 mL of human lipoaspirate. Additionally, 50 mg of empty MS and lipoaspirate-only controls were examined. Samples were analyzed grossly and histologically after 6 months in vivo. Mass and volume were measured; dexamethasone microsphere-containing samples demonstrated greater adipose tissue retention compared to the control group. Histological analysis, including hematoxylin and eosin and CD31 staining, indicated increased vascularization (p < 0.05) within the Dex MS-containing samples. Controlled delivery of adipogenic factors, such as dexamethasone via polymer microspheres, significantly

  20. Synergistic effect of PLGA nanoparticles and submicron triglyceride droplets in enhancing the intestinal solubilisation of a lipophilic weak base.

    PubMed

    Joyce, Paul; Prestidge, Clive A

    2018-06-15

    A novel hybrid microparticulate system composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles and submicron medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) droplets was fabricated to overcome the pH-dependent solubility and precipitation challenges associated with a model poorly water-soluble weak base, cinnarizine (CIN). Molecular CIN was confined within both the lipid and polymer phase of PLGA-lipid hybrid (PLH) and PLGA-lipid-mannitol hybrid (PLMH) particles, which offered significant biopharmaceutical advantages in comparison to the unformulated drug, submicron MCT droplets and PLGA nanoparticles. This was highlighted by a substantial reduction in the pH-induced precipitation during in vitro gastrointestinal two-step dissolution studies. A >2.5-fold solubilisation enhancement was observed for the composite particles during simulated intestinal conditions, compared to pure CIN. Furthermore, the drug solubilisation capacity during in vitro intestinal digesting conditions was ~2-2.5 times greater for PLMH particles compared to the precursor emulsion droplets and PLGA nanoparticles. The observations from this study indicate that a synergy exists between the degradation products of PLGA nanoparticles and lipid droplets, whereby the dual-phase release and dissolution mechanism of the hybrid particles aids in prolonging pH-provoked precipitation. Subsequently, the ability for PLGA polymers and oligomers to act as polymeric precipitation inhibitors has been highlighted for the first time. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Preclinical Development and In Vivo Efficacy of Ceftiofur-PLGA Microparticles

    PubMed Central

    Vilos, Cristian; Velasquez, Luis A.; Rodas, Paula I.; Zepeda, Katherine; Bong, Soung-Jae; Herrera, Natalia; Cantin, Mario; Simon, Felipe; Constandil, Luis

    2015-01-01

    Drug delivery systems based on polymeric microparticles represent an interesting field of development for the treatment of several infectious diseases for humans and animals. In this work, we developed PLGA microparticles loaded with ceftiofur (PLGA-cef), a third- generation cephalosporin that is used exclusively used in animals. PLGA-cef was prepared by the double emulsion w/o/w method, and exhibited a diameter in the range of 1.5–2.2 μm, and a negative ζ potential in the range of -35 to -55 mV. The loading yield of PLGA-cef was ~7% and encapsulation efficiency was approximately 40%. The pharmacokinetic study demonstrated a sustained release profile of ceftiofur for 20 days. PLGA-cef administrated in a single dose was more effective than ceftiofur non-encapsulated in rats challenged with S. Typhimurium. The in vivo toxicological evaluation showed that PLGA-cef did not affect the blood biochemical, hematological and hemostasis parameters. Overall, the PLGA-cef showed slow in vivo release profile, high antibacterial efficacy, and low toxicity. The results obtained supports the safe application of PLGA-cef as sustained release platform in the veterinary industry. PMID:25915043

  2. Gentamicin Sulfate PEG-PLGA/PLGA-H Nanoparticles: Screening Design and Antimicrobial Effect Evaluation toward Clinic Bacterial Isolates

    PubMed Central

    Dorati, Rossella; DeTrizio, Antonella; Spalla, Melissa; Migliavacca, Roberta; Pagani, Laura; Pisani, Silvia; Chiesa, Enrica; Modena, Tiziana; Genta, Ida

    2018-01-01

    Nanotechnology is a promising approach both for restoring or enhancing activity of old and conventional antimicrobial agents and for treating intracellular infections by providing intracellular targeting and sustained release of drug inside infected cells. The present paper introduces a formulation study of gentamicin loaded biodegradable nanoparticles (Nps). Solid-oil-in water technique was studied for gentamicin sulfate nanoencapsulation using uncapped Polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA-H) and Polylactide-co-glycolide-co-Polyethylenglycol (PLGA-PEG) blends. Screening design was applied to optimize: drug payload, Nps size and size distribution, stability and resuspendability after freeze-drying. PLGA-PEG concentration resulted most significant factor influencing particles size and drug content (DC): 8 w/w% DC and 200 nm Nps were obtained. Stirring rate resulted most influencing factor for size distribution (PDI): 700 rpm permitted to obtain homogeneous Nps dispersion (PDI = 1). Further experimental parameters investigated, by 23 screening design, were: polymer blend composition (PLGA-PEG and PLGA-H), Polyvinylalcohol (PVA) and methanol concentrations into aqueous phase. Drug content was increased to 10.5 w/w%. Nanoparticle lyophilization was studied adding cryoprotectants, polyvinypirrolidone K17 and K32, and sodiumcarboxymetylcellulose. Freeze-drying protocol was optimized by a mixture design. A freeze-dried Nps powder free resuspendable with stable Nps size and payload, was developed. The powder was tested on clinic bacterial isolates demonstrating that after encapsulation, gentamicin sulfate kept its activity. PMID:29329209

  3. High loading efficiency and sustained release of siRNA encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles: quality by design optimization and characterization.

    PubMed

    Cun, Dongmei; Jensen, Ditte Krohn; Maltesen, Morten Jonas; Bunker, Matthew; Whiteside, Paul; Scurr, David; Foged, Camilla; Nielsen, Hanne Mørck

    2011-01-01

    Poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide acid) (PLGA) is an attractive polymer for delivery of biopharmaceuticals owing to its biocompatibility, biodegradability and outstanding controlled release characteristics. The purpose of this study was to understand and define optimal parameters for preparation of small interfering RNA (siRNA)-loaded PLGA nanoparticles by the double emulsion solvent evaporation method and characterize their properties. The experiments were performed according to a 2(5-1) fractional factorial design based on five independent variables: The volume ratio between the inner water phase and the oil phase, the PLGA concentration, the sonication time, the siRNA load and the amount of acetylated bovine serum albumin (Ac-BSA) in the inner water phase added to stabilize the primary emulsion. The effects on the siRNA encapsulation efficiency and the particle size were investigated. The most important factors for obtaining an encapsulation efficiency as high as 70% were the PLGA concentration and the volume ratio whereas the size was mainly affected by the PLGA concentration. The viscosity of the oil phase was increased at high PLGA concentration, which explains the improved encapsulation by stabilization of the primary emulsion and reduction of siRNA leakage to the outer water phase. Addition of Ac-BSA increased the encapsulation efficiency at low PLGA concentrations. The PLGA matrix protected siRNA against nuclease degradation, provided a burst release of surface-localized siRNA followed by a triphasic sustained release for two months. These results enable careful understanding and definition of optimal process parameters for preparation of PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating high amounts of siRNA with immediate and long-term sustained release properties. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Formulation and characterization of poly(propylacrylic acid)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) blend microparticles for pH-dependent membrane disruption and cytosolic delivery.

    PubMed

    Fernando, Lawrence P; Lewis, Jamal S; Evans, Brian C; Duvall, Craig L; Keselowsky, Benjamin G

    2018-04-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is widely used as a vehicle for delivery of pharmaceutically relevant payloads. PLGA is readily fabricated as a nano- or microparticle (MP) matrix to load both hydrophobic and hydrophilic small molecular drugs as well as biomacromolecules such as nucleic acids and proteins. However, targeting such payloads to the cell cytosol is often limited by MP entrapment and degradation within acidic endolysosomes. Poly(propylacrylic acid) (PPAA) is a polyelectrolyte polymer with the membrane disruptive capability triggered at low pH. PPAA has been previously formulated in various carrier configurations to enable cytosolic payload delivery, but requires sophisticated carrier design. Taking advantage of PPAA functionality, we have incorporated PPAA into PLGA MPs as a simple polymer mixture to enhance cytosolic delivery of PLGA-encapsulated payloads. Rhodamine loaded PLGA and PPAA/PLGA blend MPs were prepared by a modified nanoprecipitation method. Incorporation of PPAA into PLGA MPs had little to no effect on the size, shape, or loading efficiency, and evidenced no toxicity in Chinese hamster ovary epithelial cells. Notably, incorporation of PPAA into PLGA MPs enabled pH-dependent membrane disruption in a hemolysis assay, and a three-fold increased endosomal escape and cytosolic delivery in dendritic cells after 2 h of MP uptake. These results demonstrate that a simple PLGA/PPAA polymer blend is readily fabricated into composite MPs, enabling cytosolic delivery of an encapsulated payload. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1022-1033, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  5. Microradiographic microsphere manipulator

    DOEpatents

    Singleton, Russell M.

    1980-01-01

    A method and apparatus for radiographic characterization of small hollow spherical members (microspheres), constructed of either optically transparent or opaque materials. The apparatus involves a microsphere manipulator which holds a batch of microspheres between two parallel thin plastic films for contact microradiographic characterization or projection microradiography thereof. One plastic film is translated to relative to and parallel to the other to roll the microspheres through any desired angle to allow different views of the microspheres.

  6. Clinical effects of transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization with holmium-166 poly(l-lactic acid) microspheres in healthy pigs

    PubMed Central

    Nijsen, J. F. W.; de Wit, T. C.; Seppenwoolde, J. H.; Krijger, G. C.; Seevinck, P. R.; Huisman, A.; Zonnenberg, B. A.; van den Ingh, T. S. G. A. M.; van het Schip, A. D.

    2008-01-01

    Purpose The aim of this study is to evaluate the toxicity of holmium-166 poly(l-lactic acid) microspheres administered into the hepatic artery in pigs. Methods Healthy pigs (20–30 kg) were injected into the hepatic artery with holmium-165-loaded microspheres (165HoMS; n = 5) or with holmium-166-loaded microspheres (166HoMS; n = 13). The microspheres’ biodistribution was assessed by single-photon emission computed tomography and/or MRI. The animals were monitored clinically, biochemically, and (166HoMS group only) hematologically over a period of 1 month (165HoMS group) or over 1 or 2 months (166HoMS group). Finally, a pathological examination was undertaken. Results After microsphere administration, some animals exhibited a slightly diminished level of consciousness and a dip in appetite, both of which were transient. Four lethal adverse events occurred in the 166HoMS group due either to incorrect administration or comorbidity: inadvertent delivery of microspheres into the gastric wall (n = 2), preexisting gastric ulceration (n = 1), and endocarditis (n = 1). AST levels were transitorily elevated post-166HoMS administration. In the other blood parameters, no abnormalities were observed. Nuclear scans were acquired from all animals from the 166HoMS group, and MRI scans were performed if available. In pigs from the 166HoMS group, atrophy of one or more liver lobes was frequently observed. The actual radioactivity distribution was assessed through ex vivo 166mHo measurements. Conclusion It can be concluded that the toxicity profile of HoMS is low. In pigs, hepatic arterial embolization with 166HoMS in amounts corresponding with liver-absorbed doses of over 100 Gy, if correctly administered, is not associated with clinically relevant side effects. This result offers a good perspective for upcoming patient trials. PMID:18330569

  7. Microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1990-01-01

    Vital information on a person's physical condition can be obtained by identifying and counting the population of T-cells and B-cells, lymphocytes of the same shape and size that help the immune system protect the body from the invasion of disease. The late Dr. Alan Rembaum developed a method for identifying the cells. The method involved tagging the T-cells and B-cells with microspheres of different fluorescent color. Microspheres, which have fluorescent dye embedded in them, are chemically treated so that they can link with antibodies. With the help of a complex antibody/antigen reaction, the microspheres bind themselves to specific 'targets,' in this case the T-cells or B-cells. Each group of cells can then be analyzed by a photoelectronic instrument at different wavelengths emitted by the fluorescent dyes. Same concept was applied to the separation of cancer cells from normal cells. Microspheres were also used to conduct many other research projects. Under a patent license Magsphere, Inc. is producing a wide spectrum of microspheres on a large scale and selling them worldwide for various applications.

  8. Fabrication and in vivo evaluation of Nelfinavir loaded PLGA nanoparticles for enhancing oral bioavailability and therapeutic effect

    PubMed Central

    Venkatesh, D. Nagasamy; Baskaran, Mahendran; Karri, Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Reddy; Mannemala, Sai Sandeep; Radhakrishna, Kollipara; Goti, Sandip

    2015-01-01

    Nelfinavir mesylate (NFV) is an anti-viral drug, used in the treatment of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Poor oral bioavailability and shorter half-life (3.5–5 h) remain a major clinical limitation of NFV leading to unpredictable drug bioavailability and frequent dosing. In this context, the objective of the present study was to formulate NFV loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs), which can increase the solubility and oral bioavailability along with sustained release of the drug. NFV loaded PLGA-NPs were prepared by nanoprecipitation method using PLGA and Poloxomer 407. The prepared NPs were evaluated for particle size, zeta potential, morphology, drug content, entrapment efficiency (EE) and in vitro dissolution studies. Oral bioavailability studies were carried out in New Zealand rabbits by administering developed NFV PLGA-NPs and pure drug suspension. PLGA-NPs prepared by using 1:4 ratio of drug and PLGA, with a stirring rate of 1500 rpm for 4 h. The prepared NPs were in the size of 185 ± 0.83 nm with a zeta potential of 28.7 ± 0.09 mV. The developed NPs were found to be spherical with uniform size distribution. The drug content and EE of the optimized formulation were found to be 36 ± 0.19% and 72 ± 0.47% respectively. After oral administration of NFV PLGA-NPs, the relative bioavailability was enhanced about 4.94 fold compared to NFV suspension as a control. The results describe an effective strategy for oral delivery of NFV loaded PLGA NPs that helps in enhancing bioavailability and reduce the frequency of dosing. PMID:26702262

  9. Fabrication, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of poly(lactic acid glycolic acid)/nano-hydroxyapatite composite microsphere-based scaffolds for bone tissue engineering in rotating bioreactors.

    PubMed

    Lv, Qing; Nair, Lakshmi; Laurencin, Cato T

    2009-12-01

    Dynamic flow culture bioreactor systems have been shown to enhance in vitro bone tissue formation by facilitating mass transfer and providing mechanical stimulation. Our laboratory has developed a biodegradable poly (lactic acid glycolic acid) (PLAGA) mixed scaffold consisting of lighter-than-water (LTW) and heavier-than-water (HTW) microspheres as potential matrices for engineering tissue using a high aspect ratio vessel (HARV) rotating bioreactor system. We have demonstrated enhanced osteoblast differentiation and mineralization on PLAGA scaffolds in the HARV rotating bioreactor system when compared with static culture. The objective of the present study is to improve the mechanical properties and bioactivity of polymeric scaffolds by designing LTW polymer/ceramic composite scaffolds suitable for dynamic culture using a HARV bioreactor. We employed a microsphere sintering method to fabricate three-dimensional PLAGA/nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) mixed scaffolds composed of LTW and HTW composite microspheres. The mechanical properties, pore size and porosity of the composite scaffolds were controlled by varying parameters, such as sintering temperature, sintering time, and PLAGA/n-HA ratio. The PLAGA/n-HA (4:1) scaffold sintered at 90 degrees C for 3 h demonstrated the highest mechanical properties and an appropriate pore structure for bone tissue engineering applications. Furthermore, evaluation human mesenchymal stem cells (HMSCs) response to PLAGA/n-HA scaffolds was performed. HMSCs on PLAGA/n-HA scaffolds demonstrated enhanced proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization when compared with those on PLAGA scaffolds. Therefore, PLAGA/n-HA mixed scaffolds are promising candidates for HARV bioreactor-based bone tissue engineering applications. Copyright 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  10. Microradiographic microsphere manipulator

    DOEpatents

    Singleton, R.M.

    A method and apparatus is disclosed for radiographic characterization of small hollow spherical members (microspheres), constructed of either optically transparent or opaque materials. The apparatus involves a microsphere manipulator which holds a batch of microspheres between two parallel thin plastic films for contact microradiographic characterization or projection microradiography thereof. One plastic film is translated relative to and parallel to the other to roll the microspheres through any desired angle to allow different views of the microspheres.

  11. Antioxidant poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles made with α-tocopherol-ascorbic acid surfactant.

    PubMed

    Astete, Carlos E; Dolliver, Debra; Whaley, Meocha; Khachatryan, Lavrent; Sabliov, Cristina M

    2011-12-27

    The goal of the study was to synthesize a surfactant made of α-tocopherol (vitamin E) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) of antioxidant properties dubbed as EC, and to use this surfactant to make poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles. Self-assembled EC nanostructures and PLGA-EC nanoparticles were made by nanoprecipitation, and their physical properties (size, size distribution, morphology) were studied at different salt concentrations, surfactant concentrations, and polymer/surfactant ratios. EC surfactant was shown to form self-assembled nanostructures in water with a size of 22 to 138 nm in the presence of sodium chloride, or 12 to 31 nm when synthesis was carried out in sodium bicarbonate. Polymeric PLGA-EC nanoparticles presented a size of 90 to 126 nm for 40% to 120% mass ratio PLGA to surfactant. For the same mass ratios, the PLGA-Span80 formed particles measured 155 to 216 nm. Span80 formed bilayers, whereas EC formed monolayers at the interfaces. PLGA-EC nanoparticles and EC showed antioxidant activity based on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay measurements using UV and EPR techniques, antioxidant activity which is not characteristic to commercially available Span80. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay for lipid peroxidation showed that PLGA nanoparticles with EC performed better as antioxidants than the EC nanoassembly or the free vitamin C. Nanoparticles were readily internalized by HepG2 cells and were localized in the cytoplasm. The newly synthesized EC surfactant was therefore found successful in forming uniform, small size polymeric nanoparticles of intrinsic antioxidant properties.

  12. Comparison of three different methods for effective introduction of platelet-rich plasma on PLGA woven mesh.

    PubMed

    Lee, Ji-Hye; Nam, Jinwoo; Kim, Hee Joong; Yoo, Jeong Joon

    2015-03-11

    For successful tissue regeneration, effective cell delivery to defect site is very important. Various types of polymer biomaterials have been developed and applied for effective cell delivery. PLGA (poly lactic-co-glycolic acid), a synthetic polymer, is a commercially available and FDA approved material. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous growth factor cocktail containing various growth factors including PDGF, TGFβ-1 and BMPs, and has shown positive effects on cell behaviors. We hypothesized that PRP pretreatment on PLGA mesh using different methods would cause different patterns of platelet adhesion and stages which would modulate cell adhesion and proliferation on the PLGA mesh. In this study, we pretreated PRP on PLGA using three different methods including simple dripping (SD), dynamic oscillation (DO) and centrifugation (CE), then observed the amount of adhered platelets and their activation stage distribution. The highest amount of platelets was observed on CE mesh and calcium treated CE mesh. Moreover, calcium addition after PRP coating triggered dramatic activation of platelets which showed large and flat morphologies of platelets with rich fibrin networks. Human chondrocytes (hCs) and human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) were next cultured on PRP-pretreated PLGA meshes using different preparation methods. CE mesh showed a significant increase in the initial cell adhesion of hCs and proliferation of hBMSCs compared with SD and DO meshes. The results demonstrated that the centrifugation method can be considered as a promising coating method to introduce PRP on PLGA polymeric material which could improve cell-material interaction using a simple method.

  13. Oral Delivery of DMAB-Modified Docetaxel-Loaded PLGA-TPGS Nanoparticles for Cancer Chemotherapy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Hongbo; Zheng, Yi; Tian, Ge; Tian, Yan; Zeng, Xiaowei; Liu, Gan; Liu, Kexin; Li, Lei; Li, Zhen; Mei, Lin; Huang, Laiqiang

    2011-12-01

    Three types of nanoparticle formulation from biodegradable PLGA-TPGS random copolymer were developed in this research for oral administration of anticancer drugs, which include DMAB-modified PLGA nanoparticles, unmodified PLGA-TPGS nanoparticles and DMAB-modified PLGA-TPGS nanoparticles. Firstly, the PLGA-TPGS random copolymer was synthesized and characterized. DMAB was used to increase retention time at the cell surface, thus increasing the chances of particle uptake and improving oral drug bioavailability. Nanoparticles were found to be of spherical shape with an average particle diameter of around 250 nm. The surface charge of PLGA-TPGS nanoparticles was changed to positive after DMAB modification. The results also showed that the DMAB-modified PLGA-TPGS nanoparticles have significantly higher level of the cellular uptake than that of DMAB-modified PLGA nanoparticles and unmodified PLGA-TPGS nanoparticles. In vitro, cytotoxicity experiment showed advantages of the DMAB-modified PLGA-TPGS nanoparticle formulation over commercial Taxotere® in terms of cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells. In conclusion, oral chemotherapy by DMAB-modified PLGA-TPGS nanoparticle formulation is an attractive and promising treatment option for patients.

  14. Design and characterization of a conductive nanostructured polypyrrole-polycaprolactone coated magnesium/PLGA composite for tissue engineering scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Liu, Haixia; Wang, Ran; Chu, Henry K; Sun, Dong

    2015-09-01

    A novel biodegradable and conductive composite consisting of magnesium (Mg), polypyrrole-block-ploycaprolactone (PPy-PCL), and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is synthesized in a core-shell-skeleton manner for tissue engineering applications. Mg particles in the composite are first coated with a conductive nanostructured PPy-PCL layer for corrosion resistance via the UV-induced photopolymerization method. PLGA matrix is then added to tailor the biodegradability of the resultant composite. Composites with different composition ratios are examined through experiments, and their material properties are characterized. The in vitro experiments on culture of 293FT-GFP cells show that the composites are suitable for cell growth and culture. Biodegradability of the composite is also evaluated. By adding PLGA matrix to the composite, the degrading time of the composite can last for more than eight weeks, hence providing a longer period for tissue formation as compared to Mg composites or alloys. The findings of this research will offer a new opportunity to utilize a conductive, nanostructured-coated Mg/PLGA composite as the scaffold material for implants and tissue regeneration. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Hyaluronic acid grafted PLGA copolymer nanoparticles enhance the targeted delivery of Bromelain in Ehrlich's Ascites Carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Bhatnagar, Priyanka; Pant, Aditya Bhushan; Shukla, Yogeshwer; Panda, Amulya; Gupta, Kailash Chand

    2016-08-01

    Rapidly increasing malignant neoplastic disease demands immediate attention. Several dietary compounds have recently emerged as strong anti-cancerous agents. Among, Bromelain (BL), a protease from pineapple plant, was used to enhance its anti-cancerous efficacy using nanotechnology. In lieu of this, hyaluronic acid (HA) grafted PLGA copolymer, having tumor targeting ability, was developed. BL was encapsulated in copolymer to obtain BL-copolymer nanoparticles (NPs) that ranged between 140 to 281nm in size. NPs exhibited higher cellular uptake and cytotoxicity in cells with high CD44 expression as compared with non-targeted NPs. In vivo results on tumor bearing mice showed that NPs were efficient in suppressing the tumor growth. Hence, the formulation could be used as a self-targeting drug delivery cargo for the remission of cancer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Tantalum oxide and barium sulfate as radiopacifiers in injectable calcium phosphate-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) cements for monitoring in vivo degradation.

    PubMed

    Hoekstra, Jan Willem M; van den Beucken, Jeroen J J P; Leeuwenburgh, Sander C G; Bronkhorst, Ewald M; Meijer, Gert J; Jansen, John A

    2014-01-01

    Monitoring the degradation of calcium phosphate-based bone substitute materials in vivo by means of noninvasive techniques (e.g., radiography) is often a problem due to the chemical resemblance of those substitutes with the mineral phase of bone. In the view of that, the present study aimed at enhancing the radiopacity of calcium phosphate cement enriched with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (CPC-PLGA) microspheres, by adding tantalum oxide (Ta2O5) or the more traditional radiopacifier barium sulfate (BaSO4). The radiopacifying capacity of these radiopacifiers was first evaluated in vitro by microcomputed tomography (μCT). Thereafter, both radiopacifiers were tested in vivo using a distal femoral condyle model in rabbits, with subsequent ex vivo μCT analysis in parallel with histomorphometry. Addition of either one of the radiopacifiers proved to enhance radiopacity of CPC-PLGA in vitro. The in vivo experiment showed that both radiopacifiers did not induce alterations in biological performance compared to plain CPC-PLGA, hence both radiopacifiers can be considered safe and biocompatible. The histomorphometrical assessment of cement degradation and bone formation showed similar values for the three experimental groups. Interestingly, μCT analysis showed that monitoring cement degradation becomes feasible upon incorporation of either type of radiopacifier, albeit that BaSO4 showed more accuracy compared to Ta2O5. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., a Wiley Company.

  17. Quantitative Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of PLGA Films Loaded with 4-Hexylresorcinol

    PubMed Central

    Kemme, Michael; Heinzel-Wieland, Regina

    2018-01-01

    Profound screening and evaluation methods for biocide-releasing polymer films are crucial for predicting applicability and therapeutic outcome of these drug delivery systems. For this purpose, we developed an agar overlay assay embedding biopolymer composite films in a seeded microbial lawn. By combining this approach with model-dependent analysis for agar diffusion, antimicrobial potency of the entrapped drug can be calculated in terms of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Thus, the topical antiseptic 4-hexylresorcinol (4-HR) was incorporated into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) films at different loadings up to 3.7 mg/cm2 surface area through a solvent casting technique. The antimicrobial activity of 4-HR released from these composite films was assessed against a panel of Gram-negative and Gram–positive bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi by the proposed assay. All the microbial strains tested were susceptible to PLGA-4-HR films with MIC values down to 0.4% (w/w). The presented approach serves as a reliable method in screening and quantifying the antimicrobial activity of polymer composite films. Moreover, 4-HR-loaded PLGA films are a promising biomaterial that may find future application in the biomedical and packaging sector. PMID:29324696

  18. Fabrication of mineralized electrospun PLGA and PLGA/gelatin nanofibers and their potential in bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Meng, Z X; Li, H F; Sun, Z Z; Zheng, W; Zheng, Y F

    2013-03-01

    Surface mineralization is an effective method to produce calcium phosphate apatite coating on the surface of bone tissue scaffold which could create an osteophilic environment similar to the natural extracellular matrix for bone cells. In this study, we prepared mineralized poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and PLGA/gelatin electrospun nanofibers via depositing calcium phosphate apatite coating on the surface of these nanofibers to fabricate bone tissue engineering scaffolds by concentrated simulated body fluid method, supersaturated calcification solution method and alternate soaking method. The apatite products were characterized by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) methods. A large amount of calcium phosphate apatite composed of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD), hydroxyapatite (HA) and octacalcium phosphate (OCP) was deposited on the surface of resulting nanofibers in short times via three mineralizing methods. A larger amount of calcium phosphate was deposited on the surface of PLGA/gelatin nanofibers rather than PLGA nanofibers because gelatin acted as nucleation center for the formation of calcium phosphate. The cell culture experiments revealed that the difference of morphology and components of calcium phosphate apatite did not show much influence on the cell adhesion, proliferation and activity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Fabrication of orderly nanostructured PLGA scaffolds using anodic aluminum oxide templates.

    PubMed

    Wang, Gou-Jen; Lin, Yan-Cheng; Li, Ching-Wen; Hsueh, Cheng-Chih; Hsu, Shan-Hui; Hung, Huey-Shan

    2009-08-01

    In this research, two simple fabrication methods to fabricate orderly nanostructured PLGA scaffolds using anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template were conducted. In the vacuum air-extraction approach, the PLGA solution was cast on an AAO template first. The vacuum air-extraction process was then applied to suck the semi-congealed PLGA into the nanopores of the AAO template to form a bamboo sprouts array of PLGA. The surface roughness of the nanostructured scaffolds, ranging from 20 nm to 76 nm, can be controlled by the sucking time of the vacuum air-extraction process. In the replica molding approach, the PLGA solution was cast on the orderly scraggy barrier-layer surface of an AAO membrane to fabricate a PLGA scaffold of concave nanostructure. Cell culture experiments using the bovine endothelial cells (BEC) demonstrated that the nanostructured PLGA membrane can increase the cell growing rate, especially for the bamboo sprouts array scaffolds with smaller surface roughness.

  20. Validation of a cage implant system for assessing in vivo performance of long-acting release microspheres.

    PubMed

    Doty, Amy C; Hirota, Keiji; Olsen, Karl F; Sakamoto, Naoya; Ackermann, Rose; Feng, Meihua R; Wang, Yan; Choi, Stephanie; Qu, Wen; Schwendeman, Anna; Schwendeman, Steven P

    2016-12-01

    Here we describe development of a silicone rubber/stainless steel mesh cage implant system, much like that used to assess biocompatibility of biomaterials [1], for easy removal of injectable polymer microspheres in vivo. The sterile cage has a type 316 stainless steel mesh size (38 μm) large enough for cell penetration and free fluid flow in vivo but small enough for microsphere retention, and a silicone rubber shell for injection of the microspheres. Two model drugs, the poorly soluble steroid, triamcinolone acetonide, and the highly water-soluble luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) peptide superagonist, leuprolide, were encapsulated in PLGA microspheres large enough (63-90 μm) to be restrained by the cage implant in vivo. The in vitro release from both formulations was followed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with and without the cage in a standard release media, PBS pH 7.4 + 0.02% Tween 80 + 0.05% sodium azide, at 37 °C. Pharmacokinetics (PK) in rats was assessed after SC injection or SC in-cage implantation of microspheres with plasma analysis by LC-MS/MS or EIA. Tr-A and leuprolide in vitro release was largely unaffected after the initial burst irrespective of the cage or test tube incubation vessel and release was much slower than observed in vivo for both drugs. Moreover, Tr-A and leuprolide pharmacokinetics with and without the cage were highly similar during the 2-3 week release duration before a significant inflammatory response was caused by the cage implant. Hence, the PK-validated cage implant provides a simple means to recover and evaluate the microsphere drug carriers in vivo during a time window of at least a few weeks in order to characterize the polymer microsphere release and erosion behavior in vivo. This approach may facilitate development of mechanism-based in vitro/in vivo correlations and enable development of more accurate and useful in vitro release tests. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All

  1. Luminescent/magnetic PLGA-based hybrid nanocomposites: a smart nanocarrier system for targeted codelivery and dual-modality imaging in cancer theranostics.

    PubMed

    Shen, Xue; Li, Tingting; Chen, Zhongyuan; Geng, Yue; Xie, Xiaoxue; Li, Shun; Yang, Hong; Wu, Chunhui; Liu, Yiyao

    2017-01-01

    Cancer diagnosis and treatment represent an urgent medical need given the rising cancer incidence over the past few decades. Cancer theranostics, namely, the combination of diagnostics and therapeutics within a single agent, are being developed using various anticancer drug-, siRNA-, or inorganic materials-loaded nanocarriers. Herein, we demonstrate a strategy of encapsulating quantum dots, superparamagnetic Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals, and doxorubicin (DOX) into biodegradable poly(d,l-lactic- co -glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymeric nanocomposites using the double emulsion solvent evaporation method, followed by coupling to the amine group of polyethyleneimine premodified with polyethylene glycol-folic acid (PEI-PEG-FA [PPF]) segments and adsorption of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-targeted small hairpin RNA (shRNA). VEGF is important for tumor growth, progression, and metastasis. These drug-loaded luminescent/magnetic PLGA-based hybrid nanocomposites (LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA) were fabricated for tumor-specific targeting, drug/gene delivery, and cancer imaging. The data showed that LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA nanocomposites can codeliver DOX and VEGF shRNA into tumor cells and effectively suppress VEGF expression, exhibiting remarkable synergistic antitumor effects both in vitro and in vivo. The cell viability waŝ14% when treated with LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA nanocomposites ([DOX] =25 μg/mL), and in vivo tumor growth data showed that the tumor volume decreased by 81% compared with the saline group at 21 days postinjection. Magnetic resonance and fluorescence imaging data revealed that the luminescent/magnetic hybrid nanocomposites may also be used as an efficient nanoprobe for enhanced T 2 -weighted magnetic resonance and fluorescence imaging in vitro and in vivo. The present work validates the great potential of the developed multifunctional LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA nanocomposites as effective theranostic agents through the codelivery of drugs/genes and dual

  2. Luminescent/magnetic PLGA-based hybrid nanocomposites: a smart nanocarrier system for targeted codelivery and dual-modality imaging in cancer theranostics

    PubMed Central

    Shen, Xue; Li, Tingting; Chen, Zhongyuan; Geng, Yue; Xie, Xiaoxue; Li, Shun; Yang, Hong; Wu, Chunhui; Liu, Yiyao

    2017-01-01

    Cancer diagnosis and treatment represent an urgent medical need given the rising cancer incidence over the past few decades. Cancer theranostics, namely, the combination of diagnostics and therapeutics within a single agent, are being developed using various anticancer drug-, siRNA-, or inorganic materials-loaded nanocarriers. Herein, we demonstrate a strategy of encapsulating quantum dots, superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanocrystals, and doxorubicin (DOX) into biodegradable poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymeric nanocomposites using the double emulsion solvent evaporation method, followed by coupling to the amine group of polyethyleneimine premodified with polyethylene glycol-folic acid (PEI-PEG-FA [PPF]) segments and adsorption of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-targeted small hairpin RNA (shRNA). VEGF is important for tumor growth, progression, and metastasis. These drug-loaded luminescent/magnetic PLGA-based hybrid nanocomposites (LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA) were fabricated for tumor-specific targeting, drug/gene delivery, and cancer imaging. The data showed that LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA nanocomposites can codeliver DOX and VEGF shRNA into tumor cells and effectively suppress VEGF expression, exhibiting remarkable synergistic antitumor effects both in vitro and in vivo. The cell viability waŝ14% when treated with LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA nanocomposites ([DOX] =25 μg/mL), and in vivo tumor growth data showed that the tumor volume decreased by 81% compared with the saline group at 21 days postinjection. Magnetic resonance and fluorescence imaging data revealed that the luminescent/magnetic hybrid nanocomposites may also be used as an efficient nanoprobe for enhanced T2-weighted magnetic resonance and fluorescence imaging in vitro and in vivo. The present work validates the great potential of the developed multifunctional LDM-PLGA/PPF/VEGF shRNA nanocomposites as effective theranostic agents through the codelivery of drugs/genes and dual

  3. Multifunctional SPIO/DOX-loaded A54 Homing Peptide Functionalized Dextran-g-PLGA Micelles for Tumor Therapy and MR Imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Situ, Jun-Qing; Wang, Xiao-Juan; Zhu, Xiu-Liang; Xu, Xiao-Ling; Kang, Xu-Qi; Hu, Jing-Bo; Lu, Chen-Ying; Ying, Xiao-Ying; Yu, Ri-Sheng; You, Jian; Du, Yong-Zhong

    2016-10-01

    Specific delivery of chemotherapy drugs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent into tumor cells is one of the issues to highly efficient tumor targeting therapy and magnetic resonance imaging. Here, A54 peptide-functionalized poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-grafted dextran (A54-Dex-PLGA) was synthesized. The synthesized A54-Dex-PLGA could self-assemble to form micelles with a low critical micelle concentration of 22.51 μg. mL-1 and diameter of about 50 nm. The synthetic A54-Dex-PLGA micelles can encapsulate doxorubicin (DOX) as a model anti-tumor drug and superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) as a contrast agent for MRI. The drug-encapsulation efficiency was about 80% and the in vitro DOX release was prolonged to 72 hours. The DOX/SPIO-loaded micelles could specifically target BEL-7402 cell line. In vitro MRI results also proved the specific binding ability of A54-Dex-PLGA/DOX/SPIO micelles to hepatoma cell BEL-7402. The in vivo MR imaging experiments using a BEL-7402 orthotopic implantation model further validated the targeting effect of DOX/SPIO-loaded micelles. In vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activities results showed that A54-Dex-PLGA/DOX/SPIO micelles revealed better therapeutic effects compared with Dex-PLGA/DOX/SPIO micelles and reduced toxicity compared with commercial adriamycin injection.

  4. Preparation of surface modified TiO2/rGO microspheres and application in the photocatalytic decomposition of oleic acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Xin; Zeng, Min; Tong, Xiaoling; Li, Fuyun; Xu, Youyou

    2018-05-01

    The comprehensive utilization of waste cooking oil is an important research topic in food science. In this study, the surface modified mesoporous anatase TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) microspheres with a high specific surface area have been successfully synthesized, through hydrothermal routes and hydrazine reduced graphene oxide. The photocatalytic decomposition of waste rapeseed oil has also been studied using TiO2/rGO microspheres as photocatalyst. The result shows that the reduced graphene oxide in these nanocomposites can act as adsorbent and photocatalyst, and the temperature and the oxygen amount also are the most important factors affecting the oleic acid decomposition products. There interesting results not only helpful for the study of the mechanism of photocatalytic, but also useful for the rational use of waste cooking oil.

  5. Improving bone repair of femoral and radial defects in rabbit by incorporating PRP into PLGA/CPC composite scaffold with unidirectional pore structure.

    PubMed

    He, Fupo; Chen, Yan; Li, Jiyan; Lin, Bomiao; Ouyang, Yi; Yu, Bo; Xia, Yuanyou; Yu, Bo; Ye, Jiandong

    2015-04-01

    In this study, a platelet-rich plasma poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PRP-PLGA)/calcium phosphate cement (CPC) composite scaffold was prepared by incorporating PRP into PLGA/CPC scaffold with unidirectional pore structure, which was fabricated by the unidirectional freeze casting of CPC slurry and the following infiltration of PLGA. The results from in vitro cell experiments and in vivo implantation in femoral defects manifested that incorporation of PRP into PLGA/CPC scaffold improved in vitro cell response (cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation), and markedly boosted bone formation, angiogenesis and material degradation. The incorporation of PRP into scaffold showed more outstanding improvement in osteogenesis as the scaffolds were used to repair the segmental radial defects, especially at the early stage. The new bone tissues grew along the unidirectional lamellar pores of scaffold. At 12 weeks postimplantation, the segmental radial defects treated with PRP-PLGA/CPC scaffold had almost recuperated, whereas treated with the scaffold without PRP was far from healed. Taken together, the PRP-PLGA/CPC scaffold with unidirectional pore structure is a promising candidate to repair bone defects at various sites. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Flexible Microsphere-Embedded Film for Microsphere-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Xing, Cheng; Yan, Yinzhou; Feng, Chao; Xu, Jiayu; Dong, Peng; Guan, Wei; Zeng, Yong; Zhao, Yan; Jiang, Yijian

    2017-09-27

    Dielectric microspheres with extraordinary microscale optical properties, such as photonic nanojets, optical whispering-gallery modes (WGMs), and directional antennas, have drawn interest in many research fields. Microsphere-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (MERS) is an alternative approach for enhanced Raman detection by dielectric microstructures. Unfortunately, fabrication of microsphere monolayer arrays is the major challenge of MERS for practical applications on various specimen surfaces. Here we report a microsphere-embedded film (MF) by immersing a highly refractive microsphere monolayer array in the poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) film as a flexible MERS sensing platform for one- to three-dimensional (1D to 3D) specimen surfaces. The directional antennas and wave-guided whispering-gallery modes (WG-WGMs) contribute to the majority of Raman enhancement by the MFs. Moreover, the MF can be coupled with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to provide an extra >10-fold enhancement. The limit of detection is therefore improved for sensing of crystal violet (CV) and Sudan I molecules in aqueous solutions at concentrations down to 10 -7 M. A hybrid dual-layer microsphere enhancer, constructed by depositing a MF onto a microsphere monolayer array, is also demonstrated, wherein the WG-WGMs become dominant and boost the enhancement ratio >50-fold. The present work opens up new opportunities for design of cost-effective and flexible MERS sensing platforms as individual or associated techniques toward practical applications in ultrasensitive Raman detection.

  7. Study of Antimicrobial Effects of Clarithromycin Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles against Clinical Strains of Helicobacter pylori.

    PubMed

    Lotfipour, F; Valizadeh, H; Milani, M; Bahrami, N; Ghotaslou, R

    2016-01-01

    Clarithromycin (CLR) formulation was prepared as PLGA nanoparticles in order to enhance the therapeutic effects using the distinctive features of a nanoparticulate delivery system. CLR loaded PLGA nanoparticles were prepared by Quasi Emulsion Solvent Diffusion (QESD) method using Poly lactic-co-Glycolic Acid (PLGA) as a biodegradable polymer. Antibacterial activity of the prepared formulations was evaluated against clinical strains of Helicobacter pylori, isolated from gastric biopsies of patients with gastritis, duodenal ulcer, peptic ulcer, and gastroesophageal reflux disease undergoing endoscopy, by using agar dilution method.Spherical nanoparticles with relatively narrow size distribution (between 200 and 800 nm) in the size range of 305 ± 138, 344 ± 148 and 362 ± 110 nm were achieved for F22, F23 and F23 respectively. CLR encapsulation percentages were measured to be 57.4 ± 4.3 to 80.2 ± 4.0%. CLR loaded PLGA nanoparticles showed equal or enhanced eradication effect against H. pylori strains according to the declined MIC values in comparison with the untreated CLR.In conclusion, the prepared CLR nanoformulation showed appropriate physicochemical properties and improved activity against H. pylori that could be a suitable candidate for oral preparations. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  8. pH-dependent antibacterial effects on oral microorganisms through pure PLGA implants and composites with nanosized bioactive glass.

    PubMed

    Hild, Nora; Tawakoli, Pune N; Halter, Jonas G; Sauer, Bärbel; Buchalla, Wolfgang; Stark, Wendelin J; Mohn, Dirk

    2013-11-01

    Biomaterials made of biodegradable poly(α-hydroxyesters) such as poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) are known to decrease the pH in the vicinity of the implants. Bioactive glass (BG) is being investigated as a counteracting agent buffering the acidic degradation products. However, in dentistry the question arises whether an antibacterial effect is rather obtained from pure PLGA or from BG/PLGA composites, as BG has been proved to be antimicrobial. In the present study the antimicrobial properties of electrospun PLGA and BG45S5/PLGA fibres were investigated using human oral bacteria (specified with mass spectrometry) incubated for up to 24 h. BG45S5 nanoparticles were prepared by flame spray synthesis. The change in colony-forming units (CFU) of the bacteria was correlated with the pH of the medium during incubation. The morphology and structure of the scaffolds as well as the appearance of the bacteria were followed bymicroscopy. Additionally, we studied if the presence of BG45S5 had an influence on the degradation speed of the polymer. Finally, it turned out that the pH increase induced by the presence of BG45S5 in the scaffold did not last long enough to show a reduction in CFU. On the contrary, pure PLGA demonstrated antibacterial properties that should be taken into consideration when designing biomaterials for dental applications. Copyright © 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. "Click" on PLGA-PEG and hyaluronic acid: Gaining access to anti-leishmanial pentamidine bioconjugates.

    PubMed

    Scala, Angela; Piperno, Anna; Micale, Nicola; Mineo, Placido G; Abbadessa, Antonio; Risoluti, Roberta; Castelli, Germano; Bruno, Federica; Vitale, Fabrizio; Cascio, Antonio; Grassi, Giovanni

    2017-12-08

    Pentamidine (Pent), an antiparasitic drug used for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, has been modified with terminal azide groups and conjugated to two different polymer backbones (PLGA-PEG [PP] copolymer and hyaluronic acid [HA]) armed with alkyne end-groups. The conjugation has been performed by Copper Catalyzed Azido Alkyne Cycloaddition (CuAAC) using CuSO 4 /sodium ascorbate as metal source. The novel PP-Pent and HA-Pent bioconjugates are proposed, respectively, as non-targeted and targeted drug delivery systems against Leishmania infections. Moreover, Pent has been encapsulated into PP nanoparticles by the oil-in-water emulsion method, with the aim to compare the biological activity of the bioconjugates with that of the classical drug-loaded delivery system that physically entraps the therapeutic agent. Biological assays against Leishmania infantum amastigote-infected macrophages and primary macrophages revealed that Pent, either covalently conjugated with polymers or loaded into polymeric nanoparticles, turned out to be more potent and less toxic than the free Pent. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  10. Graphene oxide-stimulated myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells on PLGA/RGD peptide nanofiber matrices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shin, Y. C.; Lee, J. H.; Kim, M. J.; Hong, S. W.; Oh, J.-W.; Kim, C.-S.; Kim, B.; Hyun, J. K.; Kim, Y.-J.; Han, D.-W.

    2015-07-01

    During the last decade, much attention has been paid to graphene-based nanomaterials because they are considered as potential candidates for biomedical applications such as scaffolds for tissue engineering and substrates for the differentiation of stem cells. Until now, electrospun matrices composed of various biodegradable copolymers have been extensively developed for tissue engineering and regeneration; however, their use in combination with graphene oxide (GO) is novel and challenging. In this study, nanofiber matrices composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, PLGA) and M13 phage with RGD peptide displayed on its surface (RGD peptide-M13 phage) were prepared as extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimicking substrates. RGD peptide is a tripeptide (Arg-Gly-Asp) found on ECM proteins that promotes various cellular behaviors. The physicochemical properties of PLGA and RGD peptide-M13 phage (PLGA/RGD peptide) nanofiber matrices were characterized by atomic force microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. In addition, the growth of C2C12 mouse myoblasts on the PLGA/RGD peptide matrices was examined by measuring the metabolic activity. Moreover, the differentiation of C2C12 mouse myoblasts on the matrices when treated with GO was evaluated. The cellular behaviors, including growth and differentiation of C2C12 mouse myoblasts, were substantially enhanced on the PLGA/RGD peptide nanofiber matrices when treated with GO. Overall, these findings suggest that the PLGA/RGD peptide nanofiber matrices can be used in combination with GO as a novel strategy for skeletal tissue regeneration.

  11. Neurotensin-loaded PLGA/CNC composite nanofiber membranes accelerate diabetic wound healing.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Zhifang; Liu, Yishu; Huang, Wenhua; Mo, Yunfei; Lan, Yong; Guo, Rui; Cheng, Biao

    2018-04-13

    Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a threat to human health and can lead to amputation and even death. Recently neurotensin (NT), an inflammatory modulator in wound healing, was found to be beneficial for diabetic wound healing. As we demonstrated previously, polylactide-polyglycolide (PLGA) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) (PLGA/CNC) nanofiber membranes show good cytocompatibility and facilitate fibroblast adhesion, spreading and proliferation. PLGA/CNC nanofiber membranes are novel materials that have not been used previously as NT carriers in diabetic wounds. This study aims to explore the therapeutic efficacy and possible mechanisms of NT-loaded PLGA/CNC nanofiber membranes in full-thickness skin wounds in spontaneously diabetic mice. The results showed that NT could be sustained released from NT-loaded PLGA/CNC composite nanofiber membranes for 2 weeks. NT-loaded PLGA/CNC composite nanofiber membranes induced more rapid healing than other control groups. After NT exposure, the histological scores of the epidermal and dermal regeneration and the ratios of the fibrotic area to the whole area were increased. NT-loaded PLGA/CNC composite nanofiber membranes also decreased the expressions of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. These results suggest that NT-loaded PLGA/CNC composite nanofiber membranes for sustained delivery of NT should effectively promote tissue regeneration for the treatment of DFUs.

  12. Concepts and practices used to develop functional PLGA-based nanoparticulate systems.

    PubMed

    Sah, Hongkee; Thoma, Laura A; Desu, Hari R; Sah, Edel; Wood, George C

    2013-01-01

    The functionality of bare polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles is limited to drug depot or drug solubilization in their hard cores. They have inherent weaknesses as a drug-delivery system. For instance, when administered intravenously, the nanoparticles undergo rapid clearance from systemic circulation before reaching the site of action. Furthermore, plain PLGA nanoparticles cannot distinguish between different cell types. Recent research shows that surface functionalization of nanoparticles and development of new nanoparticulate dosage forms help overcome these delivery challenges and improve in vivo performance. Immense research efforts have propelled the development of diverse functional PLGA-based nanoparticulate delivery systems. Representative examples include PEGylated micelles/nanoparticles (PEG, polyethylene glycol), polyplexes, polymersomes, core-shell-type lipid-PLGA hybrids, cell-PLGA hybrids, receptor-specific ligand-PLGA conjugates, and theranostics. Each PLGA-based nanoparticulate dosage form has specific features that distinguish it from other nanoparticulate systems. This review focuses on fundamental concepts and practices that are used in the development of various functional nanoparticulate dosage forms. We describe how the attributes of these functional nanoparticulate forms might contribute to achievement of desired therapeutic effects that are not attainable using conventional therapies. Functional PLGA-based nanoparticulate systems are expected to deliver chemotherapeutic, diagnostic, and imaging agents in a highly selective and effective manner.

  13. Concepts and practices used to develop functional PLGA-based nanoparticulate systems

    PubMed Central

    Sah, Hongkee; Thoma, Laura A; Desu, Hari R; Sah, Edel; Wood, George C

    2013-01-01

    The functionality of bare polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles is limited to drug depot or drug solubilization in their hard cores. They have inherent weaknesses as a drug-delivery system. For instance, when administered intravenously, the nanoparticles undergo rapid clearance from systemic circulation before reaching the site of action. Furthermore, plain PLGA nanoparticles cannot distinguish between different cell types. Recent research shows that surface functionalization of nanoparticles and development of new nanoparticulate dosage forms help overcome these delivery challenges and improve in vivo performance. Immense research efforts have propelled the development of diverse functional PLGA-based nanoparticulate delivery systems. Representative examples include PEGylated micelles/nanoparticles (PEG, polyethylene glycol), polyplexes, polymersomes, core-shell–type lipid-PLGA hybrids, cell-PLGA hybrids, receptor-specific ligand-PLGA conjugates, and theranostics. Each PLGA-based nanoparticulate dosage form has specific features that distinguish it from other nanoparticulate systems. This review focuses on fundamental concepts and practices that are used in the development of various functional nanoparticulate dosage forms. We describe how the attributes of these functional nanoparticulate forms might contribute to achievement of desired therapeutic effects that are not attainable using conventional therapies. Functional PLGA-based nanoparticulate systems are expected to deliver chemotherapeutic, diagnostic, and imaging agents in a highly selective and effective manner. PMID:23459088

  14. Preparation, characterization, and in vitro release of gentamicin from coralline hydroxyapatite-alginate composite microspheres.

    PubMed

    Sivakumar, M; Rao, K Panduranga

    2003-05-01

    In this work, composite microspheres were prepared from bioactive ceramics such as coralline hydroxyapatite [Ca(10)(PO(4))(6)(OH)(2)] granules, a biodegradable polymer, sodium alginate, and an antibiotic, gentamicin. Previously, we have shown a gentamicin release from coralline hydroxyapatite granules-chitosan composite microspheres. In the present investigation, we attempted to prepare composite microspheres containing coralline hydroxyapatite granules and sodium alginate by the dispersion polymerization technique with gentamicin incorporated by absorption method. The crystal structure of the composite microspheres was analyzed using X-ray powder diffractometer. Fourier transform infrared spectra clearly indicated the presence of per-acid of sodium alginate, phosphate, and hydroxyl groups in the composite microspheres. Scanning electron micrographs and optical micrographs showed that the composite microspheres were spherical in shape and porous in nature. The particle size of composite microspheres was analyzed, and the average size was found to be 15 microns. The thermal behavior of composite microspheres was studied using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetric analysis. The cumulative in vitro release profile of gentamicin from composite microspheres showed near zero order patterns. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Comparative Efficacies of Collagen-Based 3D Printed PCL/PLGA/β-TCP Composite Block Bone Grafts and Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Bone Substitute for Bone Regeneration.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Kyoung-Sub; Choi, Jae-Won; Kim, Jae-Hun; Chung, Ho Yun; Jin, Songwan; Shim, Jin-Hyung; Yun, Won-Soo; Jeong, Chang-Mo; Huh, Jung-Bo

    2017-04-17

    The purpose of this study was to compare bone regeneration and space maintaining ability of three-dimensional (3D) printed bone grafts with conventional biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP). After mixing polycaprolactone (PCL), poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) in a 4:4:2 ratio, PCL/PLGA/β-TCP particulate bone grafts were fabricated using 3D printing technology. Fabricated particulate bone grafts were mixed with atelocollagen to produce collagen-based PCL/PLGA/β-TCP composite block bone grafts. After formation of calvarial defects 8 mm in diameter, PCL/PLGA/β-TCP composite block bone grafts and BCP were implanted into bone defects of 32 rats. Although PCL/PLGA/β-TCP composite block bone grafts were not superior in bone regeneration ability compared to BCP, the results showed relatively similar performance. Furthermore, PCL/PLGA/β-TCP composite block bone grafts showed better ability to maintain bone defects and to support barrier membranes than BCP. Therefore, within the limitations of this study, PCL/PLGA/β-TCP composite block bone grafts could be considered as an alternative to synthetic bone grafts available for clinical use.

  16. The use of BMP-2 coupled – Nanosilver-PLGA composite grafts to induce bone repair in grossly infected segmental defects

    PubMed Central

    Zheng, Zhong; Yin, Wei; Zara, Janette N.; Li, Weiming; Kwak, Jinny; Mamidi, Rachna; Lee, Min; Siu, Ronald K.; Ngo, Richard; Wang, Joyce; Carpenter, Doug; Zhang, Xinli; Wu, Benjamin; Ting, Kang; Soo, Chia

    2010-01-01

    Healing of contaminated/infected bone defects is a significant clinical challenge. Prevalence of multi-antibiotic resistant organisms has renewed interest in the use of antiseptic silver as an effective, but less toxic antimicrobial with decreased potential for bacterial resistance. In this study, we demonstrated that metallic nanosilver particles (with a size of 20–40 nm)-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) composite grafts have strong antibacterial properties. In addition, nanosilver particles-PLGA composite grafts did not inhibit adherence, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, or mineralization of ongrowth MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts compared to PLGA controls. Furthermore, nanosilver particles did not affect the osteoinductivity of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2). Infected femoral defects implanted with BMP-2 coupled 2.0% nanosilver particles-PLGA composite grafts healed in 12 weeks without evidence of residual bacteria. In contrast, BMP-2 coupled PLGA control grafts failed to heal in the presence of continued bacterial colonies. Our results indicate that nanosilver of defined particle size is bactericidal without discernable in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity or negative effects on BMP-2 osteoinductivity, making it an ideal antimicrobial for bone regeneration in infected wounds. PMID:20864167

  17. Adsorption of plasma proteins on uncoated PLGA nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Sempf, Karim; Arrey, Tabiwang; Gelperina, Svetlana; Schorge, Tobias; Meyer, Björn; Karas, Michael; Kreuter, Jörg

    2013-09-01

    The biodistribution of nanoparticles is significantly influenced by their interaction with plasma proteins. In order to optimize and possibly monitor the delivery of drugs bound to nanoparticles across the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the protein adsorption pattern of uncoated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles after their incubation in human plasma was studied by mass spectrometry. After washing of the particles with water, the proteins were directly digested on the nanoparticle surface using trypsin and then analyzed by nLC MALDI-TOF/TOF. Up to now, the standard method for investigation into the plasma protein adsorption to the particles was 2D gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE), in certain cases followed by mass spectrometry. The non-gel-based method proposed in the present study provides novel insights into the protein corona surrounding the nanoparticles. The proteins adsorbed on the PLGA nanoparticles after incubation that gave the best signal in terms of quality (high MASCOT score) in human plasma were apolipoprotein E, vitronectin, histidine-rich glycoprotein and kininogen-1. These proteins also are constituents of HDL. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Tailoring of processing parameters for sintering microsphere-based scaffolds with dense-phase carbon dioxide

    PubMed Central

    Jeon, Ju Hyeong; Bhamidipati, Manjari; Sridharan, BanuPriya; Scurto, Aaron M.; Berkland, Cory J.; Detamore, Michael S.

    2015-01-01

    Microsphere-based polymeric tissue-engineered scaffolds offer the advantage of shape-specific constructs with excellent spatiotemporal control and interconnected porous structures. The use of these highly versatile scaffolds requires a method to sinter the discrete microspheres together into a cohesive network, typically with the use of heat or organic solvents. We previously introduced subcritical CO2 as a sintering method for microsphere-based scaffolds; here we further explored the effect of processing parameters. Gaseous or subcritical CO2 was used for making the scaffolds, and various pressures, ratios of lactic acid to glycolic acid in poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid), and amounts of NaCl particles were explored. By changing these parameters, scaffolds with different mechanical properties and morphologies were prepared. The preferred range of applied subcritical CO2 was 15–25 bar. Scaffolds prepared at 25 bar with lower lactic acid ratios and without NaCl particles had a higher stiffness, while the constructs made at 15 bar, lower glycolic acid content, and with salt granules had lower elastic moduli. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (hUCMSCs) seeded on the scaffolds demonstrated that cells penetrate the scaffolds and remain viable. Overall, the study demonstrated the dependence of the optimal CO2 sintering parameters on the polymer and conditions, and identified desirable CO2 processing parameters to employ in the sintering of microsphere-based scaffolds as a more benign alternative to heat-sintering or solvent-based sintering methods. PMID:23115065

  19. Development of PLGA-coated β-TCP scaffolds containing VEGF for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Khojasteh, Arash; Fahimipour, Farahnaz; Eslaminejad, Mohamadreza Baghaban; Jafarian, Mohammad; Jahangir, Shahrbanoo; Bastami, Farshid; Tahriri, Mohammadreza; Karkhaneh, Akbar; Tayebi, Lobat

    2016-12-01

    Bone tissue engineering is sought to apply strategies for bone defects healing without limitations and short-comings of using either bone autografts or allografts and xenografts. The aim of this study was to fabricate a thin layer poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) coated beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffold with sustained release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). PLGA coating increased compressive strength of the β-TCP scaffolds significantly. For in vitro evaluations, canine mesenchymal stem cells (cMSCs) and canine endothelial progenitor cells (cEPCs) were isolated and characterized. Cell proliferation and attachment were demonstrated and the rate of cells proliferation on the VEGF released scaffold was significantly more than compared to the scaffolds with no VEGF loading. A significant increase in expression of COL1 and RUNX2 was indicated in the scaffolds loaded with VEGF and MSCs compared to the other groups. Consequently, PLGA coated β-TCP scaffold with sustained and localized release of VEGF showed favourable results for bone regeneration in vitro, and this scaffold has the potential to use as a drug delivery device in the future. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  20. Phagocytosis of PLGA Microparticles in Rat Peritoneal Exudate Cells: A Time-Dependent Study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gomes, Anderson De Jesus; Nain Lunardi, Claure; Henrique Caetano, Flávio; Orive Lunardi, Laurelúcia; da Hora Machado, Antonio Eduardo

    2006-07-01

    With the purpose of enhancing the efficacy of microparticle-encapsulated therapeutic agents, in this study we evaluated the phagocytic ability of rat peritoneal exudate cells and the preferential location of poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles inside these cells. The microparticles used were produced by a solvent evaporation method and were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Size distribution analysis using DLS and SEM showed that the particles were spherical, with diameters falling between 0.5 and 1.5 [mu]m. Results from cell adhesion by SEM assay, indicated that the PLGA microparticles are not toxic to cells and do not cause any distinct damage to them as confirmed by the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. Among the large variety of cell populations found in the peritoneal exudates (neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and macrophages), TEM showed that only the latter phagocytosed PLGA microparticles, in a time-dependent manner. The results obtained indicate that the microparticles studied show merits as possible carriers of drugs for intracellular delivery.

  1. Stimulating effect of graphene oxide on myogenesis of C2C12 myoblasts on RGD peptide-decorated PLGA nanofiber matrices.

    PubMed

    Shin, Yong Cheol; Lee, Jong Ho; Kim, Min Jeong; Hong, Suck Won; Kim, Bongju; Hyun, Jung Keun; Choi, Yu Suk; Park, Jong-Chul; Han, Dong-Wook

    2015-01-01

    In the field of biomedical engineering, many studies have focused on the possible applications of graphene and related nanomaterials due to their potential for use as scaffolds, coating materials and delivery carriers. On the other hand, electrospun nanofiber matrices composed of diverse biocompatible polymers have attracted tremendous attention for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, their combination is intriguing and still challenging. In the present study, we fabricated nanofiber matrices composed of M13 bacteriophage with RGD peptide displayed on its surface (RGD-M13 phage) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, PLGA) and characterized their physicochemical properties. In addition, the effect of graphene oxide (GO) on the cellular behaviors of C2C12 myoblasts, which were cultured on PLGA decorated with RGD-M13 phage (RGD/PLGA) nanofiber matrices, was investigated. Our results revealed that the RGD/PLGA nanofiber matrices have suitable physicochemical properties as a tissue engineering scaffold and the growth of C2C12 myoblasts were significantly enhanced on the matrices. Moreover, the myogenic differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts was substantially stimulated when they were cultured on the RGD/PLGA matrices in the presence of GO. In conclusion, these findings propose that the combination of RGD/PLGA nanofiber matrices and GO can be used as a promising strategy for skeletal tissue engineering and regeneration.

  2. Orlistat and antisense-miRNA-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles for enhanced triple negative breast cancer therapy

    PubMed Central

    Bhargava-Shah, Aarohi; Foygel, Kira; Devulapally, Rammohan; Paulmurugan, Ramasamy

    2016-01-01

    Background: This study explores the use of hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol)-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA-PEG-NPs) as delivery system to improve the antitumor effect of antiobesity drug orlistat for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) therapy by improving its bioavailability. Materials & methods: PLGA-PEG-NPs were synthesized by emulsion-diffusion-evaporation method, and the experiments were conducted in vitro in MDA-MB-231 and SKBr3 TNBC and normal breast fibroblast cells. Results: Delivery of orlistat via PLGA-PEG-NPs reduced its IC50 compared with free orlistat. Combined treatment of orlistat-loaded NPs and doxorubicin or antisense-miR-21-loaded NPs significantly enhanced apoptotic effect compared with independent doxorubicin, anti-miR-21-loaded NPs, orlistat-loaded NPs or free orlistat treatments. Conclusion: We demonstrate that orlistat in combination with antisense-miR-21 or current chemotherapy holds great promise as a novel and versatile treatment agent for TNBC. PMID:26787319

  3. Enhanced singlet oxygen generation from PLGA loaded with verteporfin and gold nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deng, Wei; Kautzka, Zofia; Goldys, Ewa M.

    2016-12-01

    In this study, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanocomposites were developed by incorporating a photosensitizer, verteporfin and gold nanoparticles into this polymeric matrix and utilised for enhanced photoynamic therapy. Both enhanced fluorescence and singlet oxygen generation from verteporfin were observed in this new formulation under both 425nm LED and 405nm laser illumination. A maximum enhancement factor of 2.5 for fluorescence and 1.84 for 1O2 generation was obtained when the molar ratio of gold:VP was 5:1 and excited at 425 nm, compared with PLGA doped with verteporfin only. The experiment results could be explained by the local electric field enhancement of gold nanoparticles. Furthermore, in vitro cell-killing effect on human pancreatic cancer cells was also demonstrated by using this new formulation following light exposure, indicating the utility of these nanocomposites for enhanced photodynamic therapy.

  4. Sustained reduction of intraocular pressure by supraciliary delivery of brimonidine-loaded poly(lactic acid) microspheres for the treatment of glaucoma

    PubMed Central

    Chiang, B.; Kim, Y.C.; Doty, A.C.; Grossniklaus, H.E.; Schwendeman, S.P.; Prausnitz, M.R.

    2016-01-01

    Although effective drugs that lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in the management of glaucoma exist, their efficacy is limited by poor patient adherence to the prescribed eye drop regimen. To replace the need for eye drops, in this study we tested the hypothesis that IOP can be reduced for one month after a single targeted injection using a microneedle for administration of a glaucoma medication (i.e., brimonidine) formulated for sustained release in the supraciliary space of the eye adjacent to the drug’s site of action at the ciliary body. To test this hypothesis, brimonidine-loaded microspheres were formulated using poly(lactic acid) (PLA) to release brimonidine at a constant rate for 35 days and microneedles were designed to penetrate through the sclera, without penetrating into the choroid/retina, in order to target injection into the supraciliary space. A single administration of these microspheres using a hollow microneedle was performed in the eye of New Zealand White rabbits and was found to reduce IOP initially by 6 mm Hg and then by progressively smaller amounts for more than one month. All administrations were well tolerated without significant adverse events, although histological examination showed a foreign-body reaction to the microspheres. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that the highly-targeted delivery of brimonidine-loaded microspheres into the supraciliary space using a microneedle is able to reduce IOP for one month as an alternative to daily eye drops. PMID:26930266

  5. Evaluation of Motor Neuron-Like Cell Differentiation of hEnSCs on Biodegradable PLGA Nanofiber Scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Ebrahimi-Barough, Somayeh; Norouzi Javidan, Abbas; Saberi, Hoshangh; Joghataei, Mohammad Tghi; Rahbarghazi, Reza; Mirzaei, Esmaeil; Faghihi, Faezeh; Shirian, Sadegh; Ai, Armin; Ai, Jafar

    2015-12-01

    Human endometrium is a high-dynamic tissue that contains human endometrial stem cells (hEnSCs) which can be differentiated into a number of cell lineages. The differentiation of hEnSCs into many cell lineages such as osteoblast, adipocyte, and neural cells has been investigated previously. However, the differentiation of these stem cells into motor neuron-like cells has not been investigated yet. Different biochemical and topographical cues can affect the differentiation of stem cells into a specific cell. The aim of this study was to investigate the capability of hEnSCs to be differentiated into motor neuron-like cells under biochemical and topographical cues. The biocompatible and biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) electrospun nanofibrous scaffold was used as a topographical cue. Human EnSCs were cultured on the PLGA scaffold and tissue culture polystyrene (TCP), then differentiation of hEnSCs into motor neuron-like cells under induction media including retinoic acid (RA) and sonic hedgehog (Shh) were evaluated for 15 days. The proliferation rate of cells was assayed by using MTT assay. The morphology of cells was studied by scanning electron microscopy imaging, and the expression of motor neuron-specific markers by real-time PCR and immunocytochemistry. Results showed that survival and differentiation of hEnSCs into motor neuron-like cells on the PLGA scaffold were better than those on the TCP group. Taken together, the results suggest that differentiated hEnSCs on PLGA can provide a suitable, three-dimensional situation for neuronal survival and outgrowth for regeneration of the central nervous system, and these cells may be a potential candidate in cellular therapy for motor neuron diseases.

  6. Composition of PLGA and PEI/DNA nanoparticles improves ultrasound-mediated gene delivery in solid tumors in vivo.

    PubMed

    Chumakova, Olga V; Liopo, Anton V; Andreev, Valery G; Cicenaite, Inga; Evers, B Mark; Chakrabarty, Shilla; Pappas, Todd C; Esenaliev, Rinat O

    2008-03-18

    The goal of this study was to enhance gene delivery and tumor cell transfection in vivo by using a combination of ultrasonication with complex nanoparticles consisting of two types of nanoparticles: PEI/DNA beta-gal plasmid with highly positive zeta-potential and air-filled poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles (with negative zeta-potential) manufactured in our laboratory. The PLGA/PEI/DNA nanoparticles were a colloid with positive zeta-potential and injected i.v. in nude mice with DU145 human prostate tumors. We found that the combination of PLGA/PEI/DNA nanoparticles with ultrasonication substantially enhanced tumor cell transfection in vivo. The overexpression of beta-gal gene was evaluated histochemically and by Western blot analysis. At least an 8-fold increase of the cell transfection efficacy was obtained in irradiated tumors compared to non-irradiated controls, while little to no cell death was produced by ultrasonication.

  7. Comparative studies on the properties of glycyrrhetinic acid-loaded PLGA microparticles prepared by emulsion and template methods.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hong; Zhang, Guangxing; Sui, Hong; Liu, Yanhua; Park, Kinam; Wang, Wenping

    2015-12-30

    The O/W emulsion method has been widely used for the production of poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microparticles. Recently, a template method has been used to make homogeneous microparticles with predefined size and shape, and shown to be useful in encapsulating different types of active compounds. However, differences between the template method and emulsion method have not been examined. In the current study, PLGA microparticles were prepared by the two methods using glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) as a model drug. The properties of obtained microparticles were characterized and compared on drug distribution, in vitro release, and degradation. An encapsulation efficiency of over 70% and a mean particle size of about 40μm were found for both methods. DSC thermograms and XRPD diffractograms indicated that GA was highly dispersed or in the amorphous state in the matrix of microparticles. The emulsion method produced microparticles of a broad size distribution with a core-shell type structure and many drug-rich domains inside each microparticle. Its drug release and matrix degradation was slow before Day 50 and then accelerated. In contrast, the template method formed microparticles with narrow size distribution and drug distribution without apparent drug-rich domains. The template microparticles with a loading efficiency of 85% exhibited a zero-order release profile for 3 months after the initial burst release of 26.7%, and a steady surface erosion process as well. The same microparticles made by two different methods showed two distinguished drug release profiles. The two different methods can be supplementary with each other in optimization of drug formulation for achieving predetermined drug release patterns. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. IgA and IgM protein primarily drive plasma corona-induced adhesion reduction of PLGA nanoparticles in human blood flow.

    PubMed

    Sobczynski, Daniel J; Eniola-Adefeso, Omolola

    2017-06-01

    The high abundance of immunoglobulins (Igs) in the plasma protein corona on poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based vascular-targeted carriers (VTCs) has previously been shown to reduce their adhesion to activated endothelial cells (aECs) in human blood flow. However, the relative role of individual Ig classes (e.g., IgG, IgA, and IgM) in causing adhesion reduction remains largely unknown. Here, we characterized the influence of specific Ig classes in prescribing the binding efficiency of PLGA nano-sized VTCs in blood flow. Specifically, we evaluated the flow adhesion to aECs of PLGA VTCs with systematic depletion of various Igs in their corona. Adhesion reduction was largely eliminated for PLGA VTCs when all Igs were removed from the corona. Furthermore, re-addition of IgA or IgM to the Igs-depleted corona reinstated the low adhesion of PLGA VTCs, as evidenced by ∼40-70% reduction relative to particles with an Igs-deficient corona. However, re-addition of a high concentration of IgG to the Igs-depleted corona did not cause significant adhesion reduction. Overall, the presented results reveal that PLGA VTC adhesion reduction in blood flows is primarily driven by high adsorption of IgA and IgM in the particle corona. Pre-coating of albumin on PLGA VTCs mitigated the extent of adhesion reduction in plasma for some donors but was largely ineffective in general. Overall, this work may shed light into effective control of protein corona composition, thereby enhancing VTC functionality in vivo for eventual clinical use.

  9. IgA and IgM protein primarily drive plasma corona‐induced adhesion reduction of PLGA nanoparticles in human blood flow

    PubMed Central

    Sobczynski, Daniel J.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract The high abundance of immunoglobulins (Igs) in the plasma protein corona on poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic) acid (PLGA)‐based vascular‐targeted carriers (VTCs) has previously been shown to reduce their adhesion to activated endothelial cells (aECs) in human blood flow. However, the relative role of individual Ig classes (e.g., IgG, IgA, and IgM) in causing adhesion reduction remains largely unknown. Here, we characterized the influence of specific Ig classes in prescribing the binding efficiency of PLGA nano‐sized VTCs in blood flow. Specifically, we evaluated the flow adhesion to aECs of PLGA VTCs with systematic depletion of various Igs in their corona. Adhesion reduction was largely eliminated for PLGA VTCs when all Igs were removed from the corona. Furthermore, re‐addition of IgA or IgM to the Igs‐depleted corona reinstated the low adhesion of PLGA VTCs, as evidenced by ∼40–70% reduction relative to particles with an Igs‐deficient corona. However, re‐addition of a high concentration of IgG to the Igs‐depleted corona did not cause significant adhesion reduction. Overall, the presented results reveal that PLGA VTC adhesion reduction in blood flows is primarily driven by high adsorption of IgA and IgM in the particle corona. Pre‐coating of albumin on PLGA VTCs mitigated the extent of adhesion reduction in plasma for some donors but was largely ineffective in general. Overall, this work may shed light into effective control of protein corona composition, thereby enhancing VTC functionality in vivo for eventual clinical use. PMID:28932819

  10. Improved drug loading and antibacterial activity of minocycline-loaded PLGA nanoparticles prepared by solid/oil/water ion pairing method.

    PubMed

    Kashi, Tahereh Sadat Jafarzadeh; Eskandarion, Solmaz; Esfandyari-Manesh, Mehdi; Marashi, Seyyed Mahmoud Amin; Samadi, Nasrin; Fatemi, Seyyed Mostafa; Atyabi, Fatemeh; Eshraghi, Saeed; Dinarvand, Rassoul

    2012-01-01

    Low drug entrapment efficiency of hydrophilic drugs into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles is a major drawback. The objective of this work was to investigate different methods of producing PLGA nanoparticles containing minocycline, a drug suitable for periodontal infections. Different methods, such as single and double solvent evaporation emulsion, ion pairing, and nanoprecipitation were used to prepare both PLGA and PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles. The resulting nanoparticles were analyzed for their morphology, particle size and size distribution, drug loading and entrapment efficiency, thermal properties, and antibacterial activity. The nanoparticles prepared in this study were spherical, with an average particle size of 85-424 nm. The entrapment efficiency of the nanoparticles prepared using different methods was as follows: solid/oil/water ion pairing (29.9%) > oil/oil (5.5%) > water/oil/water (4.7%) > modified oil/water (4.1%) > nano precipitation (0.8%). Addition of dextran sulfate as an ion pairing agent, acting as an ionic spacer between PEGylated PLGA and minocycline, decreased the water solubility of minocycline, hence increasing the drug entrapment efficiency. Entrapment efficiency was also increased when low molecular weight PLGA and high molecular weight dextran sulfate was used. Drug release studies performed in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 indicated slow release of minocycline from 3 days to several weeks. On antibacterial analysis, the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of nanoparticles was at least two times lower than that of the free drug. Novel minocycline-PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles prepared by the ion pairing method had the best drug loading and entrapment efficiency compared with other prepared nanoparticles. They also showed higher in vitro antibacterial activity than the free drug.

  11. Eudragit-coated dextran microspheres of 5-fluorouracil for site-specific delivery to colon.

    PubMed

    Rai, Gopal; Yadav, Awesh K; Jain, Narendra K; Agrawal, Govind P

    2016-01-01

    Objective of the present investigation was to prepare and evaluate the potential of enteric coated dextran microspheres for colon targeting of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Dextran microspheres were prepared by emulsification-crosslinking method and the formulation variables studied included different molecular weights of dextran, drug:polymer ratio, volume of crosslinking agent, stirring speed and time. Enteric coating (Eudragit S-100) of dextran microspheres was performed by oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method using different coat:core ratios (4:1 or 8:1). Uncoated and coated dextran microspheres were characterized by particle size, surface morphology, entrapment efficiency, DSC, in vitro drug release in the presence of dextranase and 2% rat cecal contents. The release study of 5-FU from coated dextran microspheres was pH dependent. No release was observed at acidic pH; however, the drug was released quickly where Eudragit starts solublizing there was continuous release of drug from the microspheres. Organ distribution study was suggested that coated dextran microspheres retard the release of drug in gastric and intestinal pH environment and released of drug from microspheres in colon due to the degradation of dextran by colonic enzymes.

  12. Development of sulfadiazine-decorated PLGA nanoparticles loaded with 5-fluorouracil and cell viability.

    PubMed

    Guimarães, Pedro Pires Goulart; Oliveira, Sheila Rodrigues; de Castro Rodrigues, Gabrielle; Gontijo, Savio Morato Lacerda; Lula, Ivana Silva; Cortés, Maria Esperanza; Denadai, Ângelo Márcio Leite; Sinisterra, Rubén Dario

    2015-01-08

    The aim of this work was to synthesize sulfadiazine-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (SUL-PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) for the efficient delivery of 5-fluorouracil to cancer cells. The SUL-PLGA conjugation was assessed using FTIR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, elemental analysis and TG and DTA analysis. The SUL-PLGA NPs were characterized using transmission and scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. Additionally, the zeta potential, drug content, and in vitro 5-FU release were evaluated. We found that for the SUL-PLGA NPs, Dh = 114.0 nm, ZP = -32.1 mV and the encapsulation efficiency was 49%. The 5-FU was released for up to 7 days from the NPs. Cytotoxicity evaluations of 5-FU-loaded NPs (5-FU-SUL-PLGA and 5-FU-PLGA) on two cancer cell lines (Caco-2, A431) and two normal cell lines (fibroblast, osteoblast) were compared. Higher cytotoxicity of 5-FU-SUL-PLGA NPs were found to both cancer cell lines when compared to normal cell lines, demonstrating that the presence of SUL could significantly enhance the cytotoxicity of the 5-FU-SUL-PLGA NPs when compared with 5-FU-PLGA NPs. Thus, the development of 5-FU-SUL-PLGA NPs to cancer cells is a promising strategy for the 5-FU antitumor formulation in the future.

  13. Effect of polymer viscosity on physicochemical properties and ocular tolerance of FB-loaded PLGA nanospheres.

    PubMed

    Araújo, J; Vega, E; Lopes, C; Egea, M A; Garcia, M L; Souto, E B

    2009-08-01

    Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) acid (PLGA) nanospheres incorporating flurbiprofen (FB) were produced by the solvent displacement technique, for ocular applications aiming to avoid/minimize inflammation induced by surgical trauma. In this work, a PLGA of low viscosity has been tested and the results obtained were compared with those previously reported by Vega et al. The physicochemical properties of the developed formulations were evaluated by measuring particle size, zeta potential and FB entrapment efficiency, showing no significant differences. Release studies demonstrated that the formulation produced with PLGA of higher viscosity revealed a slower drug release rate. Stability analysis, for a period of 75 days, was performed using three complementary methods: (i) turbidity experiments using a Turbiscan optical analyzer, (ii) particle size measurements, and (iii) zeta potential analysis. The results revealed long-term physicochemical stability suitability for ophthalmic use, being independent from the polymer viscosity. The ocular tolerance was assessed by an alternative in vitro method to animal experimentation, the HET-CAM. For all developed formulations no ocular irritancy has been detected.

  14. Encapsulation-free controlled release: Electrostatic adsorption eliminates the need for protein encapsulation in PLGA nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Pakulska, Malgosia M.; Elliott Donaghue, Irja; Obermeyer, Jaclyn M.; Tuladhar, Anup; McLaughlin, Christopher K.; Shendruk, Tyler N.; Shoichet, Molly S.

    2016-01-01

    Encapsulation of therapeutic molecules within polymer particles is a well-established method for achieving controlled release, yet challenges such as low loading, poor encapsulation efficiency, and loss of protein activity limit clinical translation. Despite this, the paradigm for the use of polymer particles in drug delivery has remained essentially unchanged for several decades. By taking advantage of the adsorption of protein therapeutics to poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, we demonstrate controlled release without encapsulation. In fact, we obtain identical, burst-free, extended-release profiles for three different protein therapeutics with and without encapsulation in PLGA nanoparticles embedded within a hydrogel. Using both positively and negatively charged proteins, we show that short-range electrostatic interactions between the proteins and the PLGA nanoparticles are the underlying mechanism for controlled release. Moreover, we demonstrate tunable release by modifying nanoparticle concentration, nanoparticle size, or environmental pH. These new insights obviate the need for encapsulation and offer promising, translatable strategies for a more effective delivery of therapeutic biomolecules. PMID:27386554

  15. Physicochemical Properties and Applications of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) for Use in Bone Regeneration

    PubMed Central

    Félix Lanao, Rosa P.; Jonker, Anika M.; Wolke, Joop G.C.; Jansen, John A.; van Hest, Jan C.M.

    2013-01-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is the most often used synthetic polymer within the field of bone regeneration owing to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. As a consequence, a large number of medical devices comprising PLGA have been approved for clinical use in humans by the American Food and Drug Administration. As compared with the homopolymers of lactic acid poly(lactic acid) and poly(glycolic acid), the co-polymer PLGA is much more versatile with regard to the control over degradation rate. As a material for bone regeneration, the use of PLGA has been extensively studied for application and is included as either scaffolds, coatings, fibers, or micro- and nanospheres to meet various clinical requirements. PMID:23350707

  16. Control of silk microsphere formation using polyethylene glycol (PEG).

    PubMed

    Wu, Jianbing; Zheng, Zhaozhu; Li, Gang; Kaplan, David L; Wang, Xiaoqin

    2016-07-15

    A one step, rapid method to prepare silk microspheres was developed, with particle size controlled by the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG). PEG molecular weight (4.0K-20.0KDa) and concentration (20-50wt%), as well as silk concentration (5-20wt%), were key factors that determined particle sizes varying in a range of 1-100μm. Addition of methanol to the PEG-silk combinations increased the content of crystalline β-sheet in the silk microspheres. To track the distribution and degradation of silk microspheres in vivo, 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA)-coated CdTe quantum dots (QDs) were physically entrapped in the silk microspheres. QDs tightly bound to the β-sheet domains of silk via hydrophobic interactions, with over 96% of the loaded QDs remaining in the silk microspheres after exhaustive extraction. The fluorescence of QDs-incorporated silk microspheres less stable in cell culture medium than in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and water. After subcutaneous injection in mice, microspheres prepared from 20% silk (approx. 30μm diameter particles) still fluoresced at 24h, while those prepared from 8% silk (approx. 4μm diameter particles) and free QDs were not detectable, reflecting the QDs quenching and particle size effect on microsphere clearance in vivo. The larger microspheres were more resistant to cell internalization and degradation. Since PEG is an FDA-approved polymer, and silk is FDA approved for some medical devices, the methods developed in the present study will be useful in a variety of biomedical applications where simple, rapid and scalable preparation of silk microspheres is required. The work is of significance to the biomaterial and controlled release society because it provides a new option for fabricating silk microspheres in one simple step of mixing silk and polyethylene glycol (PEG), with the size and properties of microspheres controllable by PEG molecular weight as well as PEG and silk concentrations. Although fabrication of silk

  17. Nanoencapsulation of gallic acid and evaluation of its cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity.

    PubMed

    de Cristo Soares Alves, Aline; Mainardes, Rubiana Mara; Khalil, Najeh Maissar

    2016-03-01

    Gallic acid is an important polyphenol compound presenting various biological activities. The objective of this study was to prepare, characterize and evaluate poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles coated or not with polysorbate 80 (PS80) containing gallic acid. Nanoparticles coated or not with PS80 were produced by emulsion solvent evaporation method and presented a mean size of around 225 nm, gallic acid encapsulation efficiency of around 26% and zeta potential of -22 mV. Nanoparticle formulations were stable during storage, except nanoparticles coated with PS80 stored at room temperature. In vitro release profile demonstrated a quite sustained gallic acid release from nanoparticles and PS80-coating decreased drug release. Cytotoxicity over red blood cells was assessed and gallic acid-loaded PLGA nanoparticles at all analyzed concentrations demonstrated lack of hemolysis, while PS80-nanoparticles containing gallic acid were cytotoxic only in higher concentrations. Antioxidant potential of nanoparticles containing gallic acid was assessed and PLGA uncoated nanoparticles presented greater efficacy than PS80-coated PLGA nanoparticles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Ferritin Decorated PLGA/Paclitaxel Loaded Nanoparticles Endowed with an Enhanced Toxicity Toward MCF-7 Breast Tumor Cells.

    PubMed

    Turino, Ludmila N; Ruggiero, Maria R; Stefanìa, Rachele; Cutrin, Juan C; Aime, Silvio; Geninatti Crich, Simonetta

    2017-04-19

    Polylactic and glycolic acid nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs), coated with L-ferritin, are exploited for the simultaneous delivery of paclitaxel and an amphiphilic Gd based MRI contrast agent into breast cancer cells (MCF7). L-ferritin has been covalently conjugated to the external surface of PLGA-NPs exploiting NHS activated carboxylic groups. The results confirmed that nanoparticles decorated with L-ferritin have many advantages with respect to both albumin-decorated and nondecorated particles. Ferritin moieties endow PLGA-NPs with targeting capability, exploiting SCARA5 receptors overexpressed by these tumor cells, that results in an increased paclitaxel cytotoxicity. Moreover, protein coating increased nanoparticle stability, thus reducing the fast and aspecific drug release before reaching the target. The theranostic potential of the nanoparticles has been demonstrated by evaluating the signal intensity enhancement on T 1 -weighted MRI images of labeled MCF7 cells. The results were compared with that obtained with MDA cells used as negative control due to their lower SCARA5 expression.

  19. The bone formation in vitro and mandibular defect repair using PLGA porous scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Ren, Tianbin; Ren, Jie; Jia, Xiaozhen; Pan, Kefeng

    2005-09-15

    Highly porous scaffolds of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) were prepared by solution-casting/salt-leaching method. The in vitro degradation behavior of PLGA scaffold was investigated by measuring the change of normalized weight, water absorption, pH, and molecular weight during degradation period. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were seeded and cultured in three-dimensional PLGA scaffolds to fabricate in vitro tissue engineering bone, which was investigated by cell morphology, cell number and deposition of mineralized matrix. The proliferation of seeded MSCs and their differentiated function were demonstrated by experimental results. To compare the reconstructive functions of different groups, mandibular defect repair of rabbit was made with PLGA/MSCs tissue engineering bone, control PLGA scaffold, and blank group without scaffold. Histopathologic methods were used to estimate the reconstructive functions. The result suggests that it is feasible to regenerate bone tissue in vitro using PLGA foams with pore size ranging from 100-250 microm as scaffolding for the transplantation of MSCs, and the PLGA/MSCs tissue engineering bone can greatly promote cell growth and have better healing functions for mandibular defect repair. The defect can be completely recuperated after 3 months with PLGA/MSCs tissue engineering bone, and the contrastive experiments show that the defects could not be repaired with blank PLGA scaffold. PLGA/MSCs tissue engineering bone has great potential as appropriate replacement for successful repair of bone defect. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005.

  20. Graphene Oxide Hybridized nHAC/PLGA Scaffolds Facilitate the Proliferation of MC3T3-E1 Cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liang, Chunyong; Luo, Yongchao; Yang, Guodong; Xia, Dan; Liu, Lei; Zhang, Xiaomin; Wang, Hongshui

    2018-01-01

    Biodegradable porous biomaterial scaffolds play a critical role in bone regeneration. In this study, the porous nano-hydroxyapatite/collagen/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/graphene oxide (nHAC/PLGA/GO) composite scaffolds containing different amount of GO were fabricated by freeze-drying method. The results show that the synthesized scaffolds possess a three-dimensional porous structure. GO slightly improves the hydrophilicity of the scaffolds and reinforces their mechanical strength. Young's modulus of the 1.5 wt% GO incorporated scaffold is greatly increased compared to the control sample. The in vitro experiments show that the nHAC/PLGA/GO (1.5 wt%) scaffolds significantly cell adhesion and proliferation of osteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1). This present study indicates that the nHAC/PLGA/GO scaffolds have excellent cytocompatibility and bone regeneration ability, thus it has high potential to be used as scaffolds in the field of bone tissue engineering.

  1. In situ growth of copper nanocrystals from carbonaceous microspheres with electrochemical glucose sensing properties

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhou, Xiaoliang; Yan, Zhengguang, E-mail: yanzg2004@gmail.com; Han, Xiaodong, E-mail: xdhan@bjut.edu.cn

    2014-02-01

    Graphical abstract: In situ growth of copper nanoparticles from hydrothermal copper-containing carbonaceous microspheres was induced by annealing or electron beam irradiation. Obtained micro-nano carbon/copper composite microspheres show electrochemical glucose sensing properties. - Highlights: • We synthesized carbonaceous microspheres containing non-nanoparicle copper species through a hydrothermal route. • By annealing or electron beam irradiation, copper nanoparticles would form from the carbonaceous microspheres in situ. • By controlling the annealing temperature, particle size of copper could be controlled in the range of 50–500 nm. • The annealed carbon/copper hierarchical composite microspheres were used to fabricate an electrochemical glucose sensor. - Abstract: Inmore » situ growth of copper nanocrystals from carbon/copper microspheres was observed in a well-controlled annealing or an electron beam irradiation process. Carbonaceous microspheres containing copper species with a smooth appearance were yielded by a hydrothermal synthesis using copper nitrate and ascorbic acid as reactants. When annealing the carbonaceous microspheres under inert atmosphere, copper nanoparticles were formed on carbon microspheres and the copper particle sizes can be increased to a range of 50–500 nm by altering the heating temperature. Similarly, in situ formation of copper nanocrystals from these carbonaceous microspheres was observed on the hydrothermal product carbonaceous microspheres with electron beam irradiation in a vacuum transmission electron microscopy chamber. The carbon/copper composite microspheres obtained through annealing were used to modify a glassy carbon electrode and tested as an electrochemical glucose sensor.« less

  2. Design of a composite drug delivery system to prolong functionality of cell-based scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Murua, Ainhoa; Herran, Enara; Orive, Gorka; Igartua, Manoli; Blanco, Francisco Javier; Pedraz, José Luis; Hernández, Rosa M

    2011-04-04

    Cell encapsulation technology raises hopes in medicine and biotechnology. However, despite important advances in the field in the past three decades, several challenges associated with the biocompatibility are still remaining. In the present study, the effect of a temporary release of an anti-inflammatory agent on co-administered encapsulated allogeneic cells was investigated. The aim was to determine the biocompatibility and efficacy of the approach to prevent the inflammatory response. A composite delivery system comprised of alginate-poly-l-lysine-alginate (APA)-microencapsulated Epo-secreting myoblasts and dexamethasone (DXM)-releasing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres was implanted in the subcutaneous space of Balb/c mice for 45 days. The use of independently co-implanted DXM-loaded PLGA microspheres resulted in an improved functionality of the cell-based graft, evidenced by significantly higher hematocrit levels found in the cell-implanted groups by day 45, which was found to be more pronounced when higher cell-doses (100 μL) were employed. Moreover, no major host reaction was observed upon implantation of the systems, showing good biocompatibility and capability to partially avoid the inflammatory response, probably due to the immunosuppressive effects related to DXM. The findings of this study imply that DXM-loaded PLGA microspheres show promise as release systems to enhance biocompatibility and offer advantage in the development of long-lasting and effective implantable microencapsulated cells by generating a potential immunopriviledged local environment and an effective method to limit the structural ensheathing layer caused by inflammation. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. PLGA nanoparticle-mediated delivery of tumor antigenic peptides elicits effective immune responses.

    PubMed

    Ma, Wenxue; Chen, Mingshui; Kaushal, Sharmeela; McElroy, Michele; Zhang, Yu; Ozkan, Cengiz; Bouvet, Michael; Kruse, Carol; Grotjahn, Douglas; Ichim, Thomas; Minev, Boris

    2012-01-01

    The peptide vaccine clinical trials encountered limited success because of difficulties associated with stability and delivery, resulting in inefficient antigen presentation and low response rates in patients with cancer. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel delivery approach for tumor antigenic peptides in order to elicit enhanced immune responses using poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs) encapsulating tumor antigenic peptides. PLGA-NPs were made using the double emulsion-solvent evaporation method. Artificial antigen-presenting cells were generated by human dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with PLGA-NPs encapsulating tumor antigenic peptide(s). The efficiency of the antigen presentation was measured by interferon-γ ELISpot assay (Vector Laboratories, Burlingame, CA). Antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were generated and evaluated by CytoTox 96(®) Non-Radioactive Cytotoxicity Assay (Promega, Fitchburg, WI). The efficiency of the peptide delivery was compared between the methods of emulsification in incomplete Freund's adjuvant and encapsulation in PLGA-NPs. Our results showed that most of the PLGA-NPs were from 150 nm to 500 nm in diameter, and were negatively charged at pH 7.4 with a mean zeta potential of -15.53 ± 0.71 mV; the PLGA-NPs could be colocalized in human DCs in 30 minutes of incubation. Human DCs loaded with PLGA-NPs encapsulating peptide induced significantly stronger CTL cytotoxicity than those pulsed with free peptide, while human DCs loaded with PLGA-NPs encapsulating a three-peptide cocktail induced a significantly greater CTL response than those encapsulating a two-peptide cocktail. Most importantly, the peptide dose encapsulated in PLGA-NPs was 63 times less than that emulsified in incomplete Freund's adjuvant, but it induced a more powerful CTL response in vivo. These results demonstrate that the delivery of peptides encapsulated in PLGA-NPs is a promising approach to induce effective antitumor CTL

  4. In vitro inhibition of lipid accumulation induced by oleic acid and in vivo pharmacokinetics of chitosan microspheres (CTMS) and chitosan-capsaicin microspheres (CCMS)

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Sihui; Pan, Haitao; Tan, Sirong; Ding, Chen; Huang, Guidong; Liu, Guihua; Guo, Jiao; Su, Zhengquan

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Chitosan and capsaicin are compounds extracted from natural products and have been indicated to lower body weight and prevent fatty liver. However, their applications are limited by poor oral bioavailability, low compliance and some serious side effects. To solve these problems, we successfully prepared chitosan microspheres (CTMS) and chitosan-capsaicin microspheres (CCMS) in previous study. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the ability of CTMS and CCMS to eliminate lipid accumulation in hepatocytesand also characterized their pharmacokinetic parameters after administration. The results showed that the two microspheres could significantly reduce intracellular lipid accumulation and dose-dependently improve the triglyceride (TG) content in HepG2 cells. A pharmacokinetic study indicated that CTMS and CCMS were distributed in almost all of the measured tissues, especially liver and kidney, and that their absorption was better than those of chitosan and capsaicin. Simultaneously, the prolonged circulating half-lives, the lower clearance and higher plasma concentration of CTMS and CCMS showed that their bioavailability was effectively enhanced. All of the results indicated that the lipid accumulation inhibition of CTMS and CCMS was better than that of chitosan and capsaicin, and that these microspheres can be developed as preventive agents for fatty liver or obesity. PMID:28659743

  5. Fabrication of functional PLGA-based electrospun scaffolds and their applications in biomedical engineering.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Wen; Li, Jiaojiao; Jin, Kaixiang; Liu, Wenlong; Qiu, Xuefeng; Li, Chenrui

    2016-02-01

    Electrospun PLGA-based scaffolds have been applied extensively in biomedical engineering, such as tissue engineering and drug delivery system. Due to lack of the recognition sites on cells, hydropholicity and single-function, the applications of PLGA fibrous scaffolds are limited. In order to tackle these issues, many works have been done to obtain functional PLGA-based scaffolds, including surface modifications, the fabrication of PLGA-based composite scaffolds and drug-loaded scaffolds. The functional PLGA-based scaffolds have significantly improved cell adhesion, attachment and proliferation. Moreover, the current study has summarized the applications of functional PLGA-based scaffolds in wound dressing, vascular and bone tissue engineering area as well as drug delivery system. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Improved drug loading and antibacterial activity of minocycline-loaded PLGA nanoparticles prepared by solid/oil/water ion pairing method

    PubMed Central

    Kashi, Tahereh Sadat Jafarzadeh; Eskandarion, Solmaz; Esfandyari-Manesh, Mehdi; Marashi, Seyyed Mahmoud Amin; Samadi, Nasrin; Fatemi, Seyyed Mostafa; Atyabi, Fatemeh; Eshraghi, Saeed; Dinarvand, Rassoul

    2012-01-01

    Background Low drug entrapment efficiency of hydrophilic drugs into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles is a major drawback. The objective of this work was to investigate different methods of producing PLGA nanoparticles containing minocycline, a drug suitable for periodontal infections. Methods Different methods, such as single and double solvent evaporation emulsion, ion pairing, and nanoprecipitation were used to prepare both PLGA and PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles. The resulting nanoparticles were analyzed for their morphology, particle size and size distribution, drug loading and entrapment efficiency, thermal properties, and antibacterial activity. Results The nanoparticles prepared in this study were spherical, with an average particle size of 85–424 nm. The entrapment efficiency of the nanoparticles prepared using different methods was as follows: solid/oil/water ion pairing (29.9%) > oil/oil (5.5%) > water/oil/water (4.7%) > modified oil/water (4.1%) > nano precipitation (0.8%). Addition of dextran sulfate as an ion pairing agent, acting as an ionic spacer between PEGylated PLGA and minocycline, decreased the water solubility of minocycline, hence increasing the drug entrapment efficiency. Entrapment efficiency was also increased when low molecular weight PLGA and high molecular weight dextran sulfate was used. Drug release studies performed in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 indicated slow release of minocycline from 3 days to several weeks. On antibacterial analysis, the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of nanoparticles was at least two times lower than that of the free drug. Conclusion Novel minocycline-PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles prepared by the ion pairing method had the best drug loading and entrapment efficiency compared with other prepared nanoparticles. They also showed higher in vitro antibacterial activity than the free drug. PMID:22275837

  7. Vitamin E-Oligo(methyl diglycol l-glutamate) as a Biocompatible and Functional Surfactant for Facile Preparation of Active Tumor-Targeting PLGA Nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jintian; Zhang, Jian; Deng, Chao; Meng, Fenghua; Zhong, Zhiyuan

    2016-07-11

    Poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles have attracted an enormous interest for controlled drug delivery. Their clinical applications are, however, partly hindered by lack of biocompatible, biodegradable and functional surfactants. Here, we designed and developed a novel biocompatible surfactant based on amphiphilic vitamin E-oligo(methyl diglycol l-glutamate) (VEOEG) for facile fabrication of robust and tumor-targeting PLGA-based nanomedicines. VEOEG was prepared with controlled Mn of 1.7-2.6 kg/mol and low molecular weight distribution (Đ = 1.04-1.16) via polymerization of methyl diglycol l-glutamate N-carboxyanhydride using vitamin E-ethylenediamine derivative (VE-NH2) as an initiator. VEOEG had a hydrophile-lipophile balance data of 13.8-16.1 and critical micellar concentration of 189.3-203.8 mg/L depending on lengths of oligopeptide. Using VEOEG as a surfactant, PLGA nanoparticles could be obtained via nanoprecipitation method with a small and uniform hydrodynamic size of 135 nm and positive surface charge of +26.6 mV, in accordance with presence of amino groups at the surface. The resulting PLGA nanoparticles could be readily coated with hyaluronic acid (HA) to form highly stable, small-sized (143 nm), monodisperse, and negatively charged nanoparticles (HA-PLGA NPs). Notably, paclitaxel-loaded HA-PLGA NPs (PTX-HA-PLGA NPs) exhibited better antitumor effects in CD44-positive MCF-7 breast tumor cells than Taxol (a clinical paclitaxel formulation). The in vivo pharmacokinetics assay in nude mice displayed that PTX-HA-PLGA NPs possessed a long plasma half-life of 3.14 h. The in vivo biodistribution studies revealed that PTX-HA-PLGA NPs had a high tumor PTX level of 8.4% ID/g, about 6 times better than that of Taxol. Interestingly, therapeutic studies showed that PTX-HA-PLGA NPs caused significantly more effective tumor growth inhibition, better survival rate and lower adverse effect than Taxol. VEOEG has emerged as a versatile and functional

  8. Enhanced bone regeneration using an insulin-loaded nano-hydroxyapatite/collagen/PLGA composite scaffold.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xing; Zhang, Guilan; Qi, Feng; Cheng, Yongfeng; Lu, Xuguang; Wang, Lu; Zhao, Jing; Zhao, Bin

    2018-01-01

    Insulin is widely considered as a classical hormone and drug in maintaining energy and glucose homeostasis. Recently, insulin has been increasingly recognized as an indispensable factor for osteogenesis and bone turnover, but its applications in bone regeneration have been restricted because of the short periods of activity and uncontrolled release. In this study, we incorporated insulin-loaded poly lactic-co-glycolic-acid (PLGA) nanospheres into nano-hydroxyapatite/collagen (nHAC) scaffolds and investigated the bioactivity of the composite scaffolds in vitro and in vivo. Bioactive insulin was successfully released from the nanospheres within the scaffold, and the release kinetics of insulin could be efficiently controlled by uniform-sized nanospheres. The physical characterizations of the composite scaffolds demonstrated that incorporation of nanospheres in nHAC scaffolds using this method did not significantly change the porosity, pore diameters, and compressive strengths of nHAC. In vitro, the insulin-loaded nHAC/PLGA composite scaffolds possessed favorable biological function for bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells adhesion and proliferation, as well as the differentiation into osteoblasts. In vivo, the optimized bone regenerative capability of this composite scaffold was confirmed in rabbit mandible critical size defects. These results demonstrated successful development of a functional insulin-PLGA-nHAC composite scaffold that enhances the bone regeneration capability of nHAC.

  9. Zinc phthalocyanine-loaded PLGA biodegradable nanoparticles for photodynamic therapy in tumor-bearing mice.

    PubMed

    Fadel, Maha; Kassab, Kawser; Fadeel, Doa Abdel

    2010-03-01

    Nanoparticles formulated from the biodegradable copolymer poly(lactic-coglycolic acid) (PLGA) were investigated as a drug delivery system to enhance tissue uptake, permeation, and targeting of zinc(II) phthalocyanine (ZnPc) for photodynamic therapy. Three ZnPc nanoparticle formulations were prepared using a solvent emulsion evaporation method and the influence of sonication time on nanoparticle shape, encapsulation and size distribution, in vitro release, and in vivo photodynamic efficiency in tumor-bearing mice were studied. Sonication time did not affect the process yield or encapsulation efficiency, but did affect significantly the particle size. Sonication for 20 min reduced the mean particle size to 374.3 nm and the in vitro release studies demonstrated a controlled release profile of ZnPc. Tumor-bearing mice injected with ZnPc nanoparticles exhibited significantly smaller mean tumor volume, increased tumor growth delay and longer survival compared with the control group and the group injected with free ZnPc during the time course of the experiment. Histopathological examination of tumor from animals treated with PLGA ZnPc showed regression of tumor cells, in contrast to those obtained from animals treated with free ZnPc. The results indicate that ZnPc encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles is a successful delivery system for improving photodynamic activity in the target tissue.

  10. [Preparation of citrulline microspheres by spray drying technique for colonic targeting].

    PubMed

    Bahri, S; Zerrouk, N; Lassoued, M-A; Tsapis, N; Chaumeil, J-C; Sfar, S

    2014-03-01

    Citrulline is an amino acid that becomes essential in situations of intestinal insufficiency such as short bowel syndrome. It is therefore interesting to provide the patients with dosage forms for routing citrulline to the colon. The aim of this work is to formulate microspheres of citrulline for colonic targeting by the technique of spray drying. Eudragit(®) FS 30D was selected as polymer to encapsulate citrulline using the spray drying technique. Citrulline and Eudragit(®) FS 30D were dissolved in water and ethanol, respectively. The aqueous and the ethanolic solutions were then mixed in 1:2 (v/v) ratio. Microspheres were obtained by nebulizing the citrulline-Eudragit(®) FS 30D solution using a Mini spray dryer equipped with a 0.7mm nozzle. The microspheres have been formulated using citrulline and Eudragit(®) FS 30D. The size distribution of microspheres was determined by light diffraction. The morphology of the microspheres was studied by electron microscopy. Manufacturing yields, encapsulation rate and dissolution profiles were also studied. The microspheres obtained had a spherical shape with a smooth surface and a homogeneous size except for the microspheres containing the highest concentration of polymer (90 %). The formulation showed that the size and morphology of the microspheres are influenced by the polymer concentration. Manufacturing yields were about 51 % but encapsulation rate were always very high (above 90 %). The in vitro dissolution study showed that the use of the Eudragit(®) FS 30D under these conditions is not appropriate to change the dissolution profile of the citrulline. This technique has led to the formulation of microspheres with good physical properties in terms of morphology and size. The compression of the microspheres should help to control citrulline release for colonic targeting. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  11. Effects of Stirring and Fluid Perfusion on the In Vitro Degradation of Calcium Phosphate Cement/PLGA Composites.

    PubMed

    An, Jie; Leeuwenburgh, Sander C G; Wolke, Joop G C; Jansen, John A

    2015-11-01

    In vitro degradation rates of calcium phosphate bioceramics are investigated using a large variation of soaking protocols that do not all match the dynamic conditions of the perfused physiological environment. Therefore, we studied the effect of stirring and fluid perfusion on the in vitro degradation rate of apatitic calcium phosphate cements (CPC) containing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres. The composites were soaked in phosphate-buffered saline up to 6 weeks under unstirred, stirred, or perfused conditions followed by analysis of mass loss, compression strength, porosity, crystal phase composition, and morphology of the cement composites. The results showed that fluid perfusion reduced the decrease in pH and corresponding degradation rates, while nonperfused soaking conditions (i.e., stirred and unstirred conditions) resulted into more extensive acidification, the rate of which increased with stirring. After 2 weeks, the formation of a secondary brushite phase was observed for cement composites soaked under nonperfused (i.e., stirred and unstirred) conditions, whereas this phase was not detected in cements soaked under perfused conditions. The degradation rate of cement composites decreased in the order unstirred>stirred>perfused, as evidenced by quantification of mass loss, compression strength, and pore morphology. To summarize, we have demonstrated that soaking conditions strongly affected the in vitro degradation process of CPCs. As a consequence, it can be concluded that the experimental design of current in vitro degradation studies does not allow for correlation to (pre-)clinical studies.

  12. Enhanced biocompatibility of PLGA nanofibers with gelatin/nano-hydroxyapatite bone biomimetics incorporation.

    PubMed

    Li, Daowei; Sun, Haizhu; Jiang, Liming; Zhang, Kai; Liu, Wendong; Zhu, Yang; Fangteng, Jiaozi; Shi, Ce; Zhao, Liang; Sun, Hongchen; Yang, Bai

    2014-06-25

    The biocompatibility of biomaterials is essentially for its application. The aim of current study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)/gelatin/nanohydroxyapatite (n-HA) (PGH) nanofibers systemically to provide further rationales for the application of the composite electrospun fibers as a favorable platform for bone tissue engineering. The PGH composite scaffold with diameter ranging from nano- to micrometers was fabricated by using electrospinning technique. Subsequently, we utilized confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and MTT assay to evaluate its cyto-compatibility in vitro. Besides, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis and alizarin red staining (ARS) were performed to assess the osteoinductive activity. To further test in vivo, we implanted either PLGA or PGH composite scaffold in a rat subcutaneous model. The results demonstrated that PGH scaffold could better support osteoblasts adhesion, spreading, and proliferation and show better cyto-compatibility than pure PLGA scaffold. Besides, qPCR analysis and ARS showed that PGH composite scaffold exhibited higher osteoinductive activity owing to higher phenotypic expression of typical osteogenic genes and calcium deposition. The histology evaluation indicated that the incorporation of Gelatin/nanohydroxyapatite (GH) biomimetics could significantly reduce local inflammation. Our data indicated that PGH composite electrospun nanofibers possessed excellent cyto-compatibility, good osteogenic activity, as well as good performance of host tissue response, which could be versatile biocompatible scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.

  13. Gelsolin Amyloidogenesis Is Effectively Modulated by Curcumin and Emetine Conjugated PLGA Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Goel, Surbhi; Kundu, Bishwajit; Mishra, Prashant; Fnu, Ashish

    2015-01-01

    Small molecule based therapeutic intervention of amyloids has been limited by their low solubility and poor pharmacokinetic characteristics. We report here, the use of water soluble poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)-encapsulated curcumin and emetine nanoparticles (Cm-NPs and Em-NPs, respectively), as potential modulators of gelsolin amyloidogenesis. Using the amyloid-specific dye Thioflavin T (ThT) as an indicator along with electron microscopic imaging we show that the presence of Cm-NPs augmented amyloid formation in gelsolin by skipping the pre-fibrillar assemblies, while Em-NPs induced non-fibrillar aggregates. These two types of aggregates differed in their morphologies, surface hydrophobicity and secondary structural signatures, confirming that they followed distinct pathways. In spite of differences, both these aggregates displayed reduced toxicity against SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells as compared to control gelsolin amyloids. We conclude that the cytotoxicity of gelsolin amyloids can be reduced by either stalling or accelerating its fibrillation process. In addition, Cm-NPs increased the fibrillar bulk while Em-NPs defibrillated the pre-formed gelsolin amyloids. Moreover, amyloid modulation happened at a much lower concentration and at a faster rate by the PLGA encapsulated compounds as compared to their free forms. Thus, besides improving pharmacokinetic and biocompatible properties of curcumin and emetine, PLGA conjugation elevates the therapeutic potential of both small molecules against amyloid fibrillation and toxicity. PMID:25996685

  14. Analytical advantages of copolymeric microspheres for fluorimetric sensing - tuneable sensitivity sensors and titration agents.

    PubMed

    Stelmach, Emilia; Maksymiuk, Krzysztof; Michalska, Agata

    2017-01-15

    Analytical benefits related to application of copolymeric microspheres containing different number of carboxylic acid mers have been studied on example of acrylate copolymers. These structures can be used as a reagent in heterogeneous pH titration, benefiting from different number of reactive groups - i.e. different concentration of a titrant - within the series of copolymers. Thus introducing the same amount of different microspheres from a series to the sample, different amount of the titrant is introduced. Copolymeric microspheres also can be used as optical sensors - in this respect the increasing number of reactive groups in the series is useful to improve the analytical performance of microprobes - sensitivity of determination or/and response range. The increase in ion-permeability of the spheres with increasing number of reactive mers is advantageous. It is shown that for pH sensitive microspheres containing higher number of carboxyl groups the higher sensitivity for alkaline pH samples is observed for an indicator present in the beads. The significant increase of optical responses is related to enhanced ion transport within the microspheres. For zinc or potassium ions model sensors tested it was shown that by choice of pH conditions and type of microspheres from the series, the optical responses can be tuned - to enhance sensitivity for analyte concentration change as well as to change the response pattern from sigmoidal (higher sensitivity, narrow range) to linear (broader response range). For classical optode systems (e.g. microspheres containing an optical transducer - pH sensitive dye and optically silent ionophore - receptor) copolymeric microspheres containing carboxylic acid mers in their structure allow application of the sensor in alkaline pH range, which is usually inaccessible for applied optical transducer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Honeycomb-like PLGA- b-PEG Structure Creation with T-Junction Microdroplets.

    PubMed

    Gultekinoglu, Merve; Jiang, Xinyue; Bayram, Cem; Ulubayram, Kezban; Edirisinghe, Mohan

    2018-06-04

    Amphiphilic block copolymers are widely used in science owing to their versatile properties. In this study, amphiphilic block copolymer poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid)- block-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLGA- b-PEG) was used to create microdroplets in a T-junction microfluidic device with a well-defined geometry. To compare interfacial characteristics of microdroplets, dichloromethane (DCM) and chloroform were used to prepare PLGA- b-PEG solution as an oil phase. In the T-junction device, water and oil phases were manipulated at variable flow rates from 50 to 300 μL/min by increments of 50 μL/min. Fabricated microdroplets were directly collected on a glass slide. After a drying period, porous two-dimensional and three-dimensional structures were obtained as honeycomb-like structure. Pore sizes were increased according to increased water/oil flow rate for both DCM and chloroform solutions. Also, it was shown that increasing polymer concentration decreased the pore size of honeycomb-like structures at a constant water/oil flow rate (50:50 μL/min). Additionally, PLGA- b-PEG nanoparticles were also obtained on the struts of honeycomb-like structures according to the water solubility, volatility, and viscosity properties of oil phases, by the aid of Marangoni flow. The resulting structures have a great potential to be used in biomedical applications, especially in drug delivery-related studies, with nanoparticle forming ability and cellular responses in different surface morphologies.

  16. Aqueous Two Phase System Assisted Self-Assembled PLGA Microparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yeredla, Nitish; Kojima, Taisuke; Yang, Yi; Takayama, Shuichi; Kanapathipillai, Mathumai

    2016-06-01

    Here, we produce poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) based microparticles with varying morphologies, and temperature responsive properties utilizing a Pluronic F127/dextran aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) assisted self-assembly. The PLGA polymer, when emulsified in Pluronic F127/dextran ATPS, forms unique microparticle structures due to ATPS guided-self assembly. Depending on the PLGA concentration, the particles either formed a core-shell or a composite microparticle structure. The microparticles facilitate the simultaneous incorporation of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules, due to their amphiphilic macromolecule composition. Further, due to the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) properties of Pluronic F127, the particles exhibit temperature responsiveness. The ATPS based microparticle formation demonstrated in this study, serves as a novel platform for PLGA/polymer based tunable micro/nano particle and polymersome development. The unique properties may be useful in applications such as theranostics, synthesis of complex structure particles, bioreaction/mineralization at the two-phase interface, and bioseparations.

  17. Morphogenesis and crystallization of ZnS microspheres by a soft template-assisted hydrothermal route: synthesis, growth mechanism, and oxygen sensitivity.

    PubMed

    Yang, Liangbao; Han, Jun; Luo, Tao; Li, Minqiang; Huang, Jiarui; Meng, Fanli; Liu, Jinhuai

    2009-01-05

    Almost monodisperse ZnS microspheres have been synthesized on a large scale by a hydrothermal route, in which tungstosilicate acid (TSA) was used as a soft template. By controlling the reaction conditions, such as reaction temperature, pH value of the solutions, and the reaction medium, almost monodisperse microspheres can be synthesized. The structure of these microspheres is sensitive to the reaction conditions. The growth mechanism of these nearly monodisperse microspheres was examined. Oxygen sensing is realized from ZnS microspheres. The current through the ZnS microspheres under UV illumination increases as the oxygen concentration decreases.

  18. Composite CD-MOF nanocrystals-containing microspheres for sustained drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Li, Haiyan; Lv, Nana; Li, Xue; Liu, Botao; Feng, Jing; Ren, Xiaohong; Guo, Tao; Chen, Dawei; Fraser Stoddart, J; Gref, Ruxandra; Zhang, Jiwen

    2017-06-08

    Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which are typically embedded in polymer matrices as composites, are emerging as a new class of carriers for sustained drug delivery. Most of the MOFs and the polymers used so far in these composites, however, are not pharmaceutically acceptable. In the investigation reported herein, composites of γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD)-based MOFs (CD-MOFs) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) were prepared by a solid in oil-in-oil (s/o/o) emulsifying solvent evaporation method. A modified hydrothermal protocol has been established which produces efficiently at 50 °C in 6 h micron (5-10 μm) and nanometer (500-700 nm) diameter CD-MOF particles of uniform size with smooth surfaces and powder X-ray diffraction patterns that are identical with those reported in the literature. Ibuprofen (IBU) and Lansoprazole (LPZ), both insoluble in water and lacking in stability, were entrapped with high drug loading in nanometer-sized CD-MOFs by co-crystallisation (that is more effective than impregnation) without causing MOF crystal degradation during the loading process. On account of the good dispersion of drug-loaded CD-MOF nanocrystals inside polyacrylic acid (PAA) matrices and the homogeneous distribution of the drug molecules within these crystals, the composite microspheres exhibit not only spherical shapes and sustained drug release over a prolonged period of time, but they also demonstrate reduced cell toxicity. The cumulative release rate for IBU (and LPZ) follows the trend: IBU-γ-CD complex microspheres (ca. 80% in 2 h) > IBU microspheres > IBU-CD-MOF/PAA composite microspheres (ca. 50% in 24 h). Importantly, no burst release of IBU (and LPZ) was observed from the CD-MOF/PAA composite microspheres, suggesting an even distribution of the drug as well as strong drug carrier interactions inside the CD-MOF. In summary, these composite microspheres, composed of CD-MOF nanocrystals embedded in a biocompatible polymer (PAA) matrix, constitute an efficient and

  19. PLGA nanoparticle-mediated delivery of tumor antigenic peptides elicits effective immune responses

    PubMed Central

    Ma, Wenxue; Chen, Mingshui; Kaushal, Sharmeela; McElroy, Michele; Zhang, Yu; Ozkan, Cengiz; Bouvet, Michael; Kruse, Carol; Grotjahn, Douglas; Ichim, Thomas; Minev, Boris

    2012-01-01

    The peptide vaccine clinical trials encountered limited success because of difficulties associated with stability and delivery, resulting in inefficient antigen presentation and low response rates in patients with cancer. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel delivery approach for tumor antigenic peptides in order to elicit enhanced immune responses using poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs) encapsulating tumor antigenic peptides. PLGA-NPs were made using the double emulsion-solvent evaporation method. Artificial antigen-presenting cells were generated by human dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with PLGA-NPs encapsulating tumor antigenic peptide(s). The efficiency of the antigen presentation was measured by interferon-γ ELISpot assay (Vector Laboratories, Burlingame, CA). Antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were generated and evaluated by CytoTox 96® Non-Radioactive Cytotoxicity Assay (Promega, Fitchburg, WI). The efficiency of the peptide delivery was compared between the methods of emulsification in incomplete Freund’s adjuvant and encapsulation in PLGA-NPs. Our results showed that most of the PLGA-NPs were from 150 nm to 500 nm in diameter, and were negatively charged at pH 7.4 with a mean zeta potential of −15.53 ± 0.71 mV; the PLGA-NPs could be colocalized in human DCs in 30 minutes of incubation. Human DCs loaded with PLGA-NPs encapsulating peptide induced significantly stronger CTL cytotoxicity than those pulsed with free peptide, while human DCs loaded with PLGA-NPs encapsulating a three-peptide cocktail induced a significantly greater CTL response than those encapsulating a two-peptide cocktail. Most importantly, the peptide dose encapsulated in PLGA-NPs was 63 times less than that emulsified in incomplete Freund’s adjuvant, but it induced a more powerful CTL response in vivo. These results demonstrate that the delivery of peptides encapsulated in PLGA-NPs is a promising approach to induce effective antitumor

  20. PLGA/Ag nanocomposites: in vitro degradation study and silver ion release.

    PubMed

    Fortunati, E; Latterini, L; Rinaldi, S; Kenny, J M; Armentano, I

    2011-12-01

    New nanocomposite films based on a biodegradable poly (DL-Lactide-co-Glycolide) copolymer (PLGA) and different concentration of silver nanoparticles (Ag) were developed by solvent casting. In vitro degradation studies of PLGA/Ag nanocomposites were conducted under physiological conditions, over a 5 week period, and compared to the behaviour of the neat polymer. Furthermore the silver ions (Ag(+)) release upon degradation was monitored to obtain information on the properties of the nanocomposites during the incubation. The obtained results suggest that the PLGA film morphology can be modified introducing a small percentage of silver nanoparticles that do not affect the degradation mechanism of PLGA polymer in the nanocomposite. However results clearly evinced the stabilizing effect of the Ag nanoparticles in the PLGA polymer and the mineralization process induced by the combined effect of silver and nanocomposite surface topography. The Ag(+) release can be controlled by the polymer degradation processes, evidencing a prolonged antibacterial effect.

  1. The effects of biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-based microspheres loaded with quercetin on stemness, viability and osteogenic differentiation potential of stem cell spheroids.

    PubMed

    Lee, H; Nguyen, T T; Kim, M; Jeong, J-H; Park, J-B

    2018-05-31

    Quercetin has been reported to exert many beneficial effects on the protection against various diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and inflammation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential osteogenic differentiation ability of mesenchymal stem cells in the presence of quercetin. Quercetin-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres were prepared using an electrospraying technique. Characterization of the microspheres was evaluated with a scanning electron microscope and release profile. Three-dimensional cell spheroids were fabricated using silicon elastomer-based concave microwells. Qualitative results of cellular viability were seen under a confocal microscope, and quantitative cellular viability was evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The alkaline phosphatase activity and Alizarin Red S staining were performed. A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and a western blot analysis were performed. Spheroids were well formed irrespective of quercetin concentration. Most of the cells in spheroids emitted green fluorescence, and the morphology was round without significant changes. The application of quercetin-loaded microspheres produced a significant increase in the alkaline phosphatase activity. The real-time polymerase chain reaction results showed a significant increase in Runx2, and western blot results showed higher expression of Runx2 protein expression. Biodegradable microspheres loaded with quercetin produced prolonged release profiles with increased mineralization. Microspheres loaded with quercetin can be used for the enhancement of osteoblastic differentiation in cell therapy. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  2. Exendin-4-loaded PLGA microspheres relieve cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury and neurologic deficits through long-lasting bioactivity-mediated phosphorylated Akt/eNOS signaling in rats

    PubMed Central

    Chien, Chiang-Ting; Jou, Ming-Jia; Cheng, Tai-Yu; Yang, Chih-Hui; Yu, Tzu-Ying; Li, Ping-Chia

    2015-01-01

    Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor activation in the brain provides neuroprotection. Exendin-4 (Ex-4), a GLP-1 analog, has seen limited clinical usage because of its short half-life. We developed long-lasting Ex-4-loaded poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres (PEx-4) and explored its neuroprotective potential against cerebral ischemia in diabetic rats. Compared with Ex-4, PEx-4 in the gradually degraded microspheres sustained higher Ex-4 levels in the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid for at least 2 weeks and improved diabetes-induced glycemia after a single subcutaneous administration (20 μg/day). Ten minutes of bilateral carotid artery occlusion (CAO) combined with hemorrhage-induced hypotension (around 30 mm Hg) significantly decreased cerebral blood flow and microcirculation in male Wistar rats subjected to streptozotocin-induced diabetes. CAO increased cortical O2− levels by chemiluminescence amplification and prefrontal cortex edema by T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging analysis. CAO significantly increased aquaporin 4 and glial fibrillary acidic protein expression and led to cognition deficits. CAO downregulated phosphorylated Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (p-Akt/p-eNOS) signaling and enhanced nuclear factor (NF)-κBp65/intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis in the cerebral cortex. PEx-4 was more effective than Ex-4 to improve CAO-induced oxidative injury and cognitive deficits. The neuroprotection provided by PEx-4 was through p-Akt/p-eNOS pathways, which suppressed CAO-enhanced NF-κB/ICAM-1 signaling, ER stress, and apoptosis. PMID:26058696

  3. Organic aerogel microspheres

    DOEpatents

    Mayer, Steven T.; Kong, Fung-Ming; Pekala, Richard W.; Kaschmitter, James L.

    1999-01-01

    Organic aerogel microspheres which can be used in capacitors, batteries, thermal insulation, adsorption/filtration media, and chromatographic packings, having diameters ranging from about 1 micron to about 3 mm. The microspheres can be pyrolyzed to form carbon aerogel microspheres. This method involves stirring the aqueous organic phase in mineral oil at elevated temperature until the dispersed organic phase polymerizes and forms nonsticky gel spheres. The size of the microspheres depends on the collision rate of the liquid droplets and the reaction rate of the monomers from which the aqueous solution is formed. The collision rate is governed by the volume ratio of the aqueous solution to the mineral oil and the shear rate, while the reaction rate is governed by the chemical formulation and the curing temperature.

  4. Focal release of neurotrophic factors by biodegradable microspheres enhance motor and sensory axonal regeneration in vitro and in vivo.

    PubMed

    Santos, Daniel; Giudetti, Guido; Micera, Silvestro; Navarro, Xavier; Del Valle, Jaume

    2016-04-01

    Neurotrophic factors (NTFs) promote nerve regeneration and neuronal survival after peripheral nerve injury. However, drawbacks related with administration and bioactivity during long periods limit their therapeutic application. In this study, PLGA microspheres (MPs) were used to locally release different NTFs and evaluate whether they accelerate axonal regeneration in comparison with free NTFs or controls. ELISA, SEM, UV/visible light microscopy, organotypic cultures of DRG explants and spinal cord slices were used to characterize MP properties and the bioactivity of the released NTFs. Results of organotypic cultures showed that encapsulated NTFs maintain longer bioactivity and enhance neurite regeneration of both sensory and motor neurons compared with free NTFs. For in vivo assays, the rat sciatic nerve was transected and repaired with a silicone tube filled with collagen gel or collagen mixed with PBS encapsulated MPs (control groups) and with free or encapsulated NGF, BDNF, GDNF or FGF-2. After 20 days, a retrotracer was applied to the regenerated nerve to quantify motor and sensory axonal regeneration. NTF encapsulation in MPs improved regeneration of both motor and sensory axons, as evidenced by increased numbers of retrolabeled neurons. Hence, our results show that slow release of NTFs with PLGA MP enhance nerve regeneration. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Composition and structure of calcium aluminosilicate microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharonova, O. M.; Oreshkina, N. A.; Zhizhaev, A. M.

    2017-06-01

    The composition was studied of calcium aluminosilicate microspheres of three morphological types in high-calcium fly ash from combustion of brown coal from the Kansk-Achinsk basin in slag-tap boilers at temperatures from 1400 to 1500°C and sampled in the first field of electrostatic precipitators at the Krasnoyarsk Cogeneration Power Station no. 2 (TETs-2). Gross compositions and the composition of local areas were determined using a scanning electron microscopy technique and an energy-dispersive analysis with full mapping of globules. With a high content of basic oxides O ox (68 to 79 wt %) and a low content of acid oxides K ox (21 to 31 wt %), type 1 microspheres are formed. They consist of heterogeneous areas having a porous structure and crystalline components in which the content of CaO, SiO2, or Al2O3 differs by two to three times and the content of MgO differs by seven times. With a lower content of O ox (55 to 63 wt %) and an elevated content of K ox (37 to 45 wt %), type 2 microspheres are formed. They are more homogeneous in the composition and structure and consist of similar crystalline components. Having a close content of O ox (46 to 53 wt %) and K ox (47 to 54 wt %), type 3 microspheres, which are a dense matter consisting of amorphous substance with submicron- and nanostructure of crystalline components, are formed. The basic precursor in formation of high-calcium aluminosilicate microspheres is calcium from the organomineral matter of coals with various contribution of Mg, Fe, S, or Na from the coal organic matter and Al, Fe, S, or Si in the form of single mineral inclusions in a coal particle. On the basis of the available data, the effect was analyzed of the composition of a CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2-FeO system on the melting and viscous properties of the matter in microspheres and formation of globules of different morphology. The results of this analysis will help to find a correlation with properties of microspheres in their use as functional

  6. Salidroside promotes peripheral nerve regeneration based on tissue engineering strategy using Schwann cells and PLGA: in vitro and in vivo

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Hui; Lv, Peizhen; Zhu, Yongjia; Wu, Huayu; Zhang, Kun; Xu, Fuben; Zheng, Li; Zhao, Jinmin

    2017-01-01

    Salidriside (SDS), a phenylpropanoid glycoside derived from Rhodiola rosea L, has been shown to be neuroprotective in many studies, which may be promising in nerve recovery. In this study, the neuroprotective effects of SDS on engineered nerve constructed by Schwann cells (SCs) and Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) were studied in vitro. We further investigated the effect of combinational therapy of SDS and PLGA/SCs based tissue engineering on peripheral nerve regeneration based on the rat model of nerve injury by sciatic transection. The results showed that SDS dramatically enhanced the proliferation and function of SCs. The underlying mechanism may be that SDS affects SCs growth through the modulation of neurotrophic factors (BDNF, GDNF and CNTF). 12 weeks after implantation with a 12 mm gap of sciatic nerve injury, SDS-PLGA/SCs achieved satisfying outcomes of nerve regeneration, as evidenced by morphological and functional improvements upon therapy by SDS, PLGA/SCs or direct suture group assessed by sciatic function index, nerve conduction assay, HE staining and immunohistochemical analysis. Our results demonstrated the significant role of introducing SDS into neural tissue engineering to promote nerve regeneration.

  7. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) controlled release systems: experimental and modeling insights

    PubMed Central

    Hines, Daniel J.; Kaplan, David L.

    2013-01-01

    Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) has been the most successful polymeric biomaterial for use in controlled drug delivery systems. There are several different chemical and physical properties of PLGA that impact the release behavior of drugs from PLGA delivery devices. These properties must be considered and optimized in drug release device formulation. Mathematical modeling is a useful tool for identifying, characterizing, and predicting the mechanisms of controlled release. The advantages and limitations of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) for controlled release are reviewed, followed by a review of current approaches in controlled release technology that utilize PLGA. Mathematical modeling applied towards controlled release rates from PLGA-based devices will also be discussed to provide a complete picture of state of the art understanding of the control achievable with this polymeric system, as well as the limitations. PMID:23614648

  8. Production of hollow aerogel microspheres

    DOEpatents

    Upadhye, Ravindra S.; Henning, Sten A.

    1993-01-01

    A method is described for making hollow aerogel microspheres of 800-1200 .mu. diameter and 100-300 .mu. wall thickness by forming hollow alcogel microspheres during the sol/gel process in a catalytic atmosphere and capturing them on a foam surface containing catalyst. Supercritical drying of the formed hollow alcogel microspheres yields hollow aerogel microspheres which are suitable for ICF targets.

  9. Biocompatible and biodegradable fibrinogen microspheres for tumor-targeted doxorubicin delivery

    PubMed Central

    Joo, Jae Yeon; Park, Gil Yong; An, Seong Soo A

    2015-01-01

    In the development of effective drug delivery carriers, many researchers have focused on the usage of nontoxic and biocompatible materials and surface modification with targeting molecules for tumor-specific drug delivery. Fibrinogen (Fbg), an abundant glycoprotein in plasma, could be a potential candidate for developing drug carriers because of its biocompatibility and tumor-targeting property via arginine–glycine–aspartate (RGD) peptide sequences. Doxorubicin (DOX), a chemotherapeutic agent, was covalently conjugated to Fbg, and the microspheres were prepared. Acid-labile and non-cleavable linkers were used for the conjugation of DOX to Fbg, resulting in an acid-triggered drug release under a mild acidic condition and a slow-controlled drug release, respectively. In vitro cytotoxicity tests confirmed low cytotoxicity in normal cells and high antitumor effect toward cancer cells. In addition, it was discovered that a longer linker could make the binding of cells to Fbg drug carriers easier. Therefore, DOX–linker–Fbg microspheres could be a suitable drug carrier for safer and effective drug delivery. PMID:26366073

  10. Microsphere Insulation Panels

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mohling, R.; Allen, M.; Baumgartner, R.

    2006-01-01

    Microsphere insulation panels (MIPs) have been developed as lightweight, longlasting replacements for the foam and vacuum-jacketed systems heretofore used for thermally insulating cryogenic vessels and transfer ducts. The microsphere core material of a typical MIP consists of hollow glass bubbles, which have a combination of advantageous mechanical, chemical, and thermal-insulation properties heretofore available only separately in different materials. In particular, a core filling of glass microspheres has high crush strength and low density, is noncombustible, and performs well in soft vacuum.

  11. Organic aerogel microspheres

    DOEpatents

    Mayer, S.T.; Kong, F.M.; Pekala, R.W.; Kaschmitter, J.L.

    1999-06-01

    Organic aerogel microspheres are disclosed which can be used in capacitors, batteries, thermal insulation, adsorption/filtration media, and chromatographic packings, having diameters ranging from about 1 micron to about 3 mm. The microspheres can be pyrolyzed to form carbon aerogel microspheres. This method involves stirring the aqueous organic phase in mineral oil at elevated temperature until the dispersed organic phase polymerizes and forms nonstick gel spheres. The size of the microspheres depends on the collision rate of the liquid droplets and the reaction rate of the monomers from which the aqueous solution is formed. The collision rate is governed by the volume ratio of the aqueous solution to the mineral oil and the shear rate, while the reaction rate is governed by the chemical formulation and the curing temperature.

  12. Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of paclitaxel loaded in six-arm star-shaped poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Yongxia; Yang, Ziying; Liu, Chao; Wang, Cuiwei; Zhao, Shunxin; Yang, Jing; Sun, Hongfan; Zhang, Zhengpu; Kong, Deling; Song, Cunxian

    2013-01-01

    Background Star-shaped polymers provide more terminal groups, and are promising for application in drug-delivery systems. Methods A new series of six-arm star-shaped poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (6-s-PLGA) was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization. The structure and properties of the 6-s-PLGA were characterized by carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. Then, paclitaxel-loaded six-arm star-shaped poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (6-s-PLGA-PTX-NPs) were prepared under the conditions optimized by the orthogonal testing. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to analyze the nanoparticles’ encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading capacity, dynamic light scattering was used to determine their size and size distribution, and transmission electron microscopy was used to evaluate their morphology. The release performance of the 6-s-PLGA-PTX-NPs in vitro and the cytostatic effect of 6-s-PLGA-PTX-NPs were investigated in comparison with paclitaxel-loaded linear poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (L-PLGA-PTX-NPs). Results The results of carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy suggest that the polymerization was successfully initiated by inositol and confirm the structure of 6-s-PLGA. The molecular weights of a series of 6-s-PLGAs had a ratio corresponding to the molar ratio of raw materials to initiator. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed that the 6-s-PLGA had a low glass transition temperature of 40°C–50°C. The 6-s-PLGA-PTX-NPs were monodispersed with an average diameter of 240.4±6.9 nm in water, which was further confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The encapsulation efficiency of the 6-s-PLGA-PTX-NPs was higher than that of the L-PLGA-PTX-NPs. In terms of the in vitro release of nanoparticles, paclitaxel (PTX) was released more slowly and more steadily from 6-s-PLGA than from

  13. Use of PLGA 90:10 scaffolds enriched with in vitro-differentiated neural cells for repairing rat sciatic nerve defects.

    PubMed

    Luís, Ana L; Rodrigues, Jorge M; Geuna, Stefano; Amado, Sandra; Shirosaki, Yuki; Lee, Jennifer M; Fregnan, Federica; Lopes, Maria A; Veloso, Antonio P; Ferreira, Antonio J; Santos, Jose D; Armada-Da-silva, Paulo A S; Varejão, Artur S P; Maurício, Ana Colette

    2008-06-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nerve tube guides, made of a novel proportion (90:10) of the two polymers, poly(L-lactide): poly(glycolide) and covered with a neural cell line differentiated in vitro, were tested in vivo for promoting nerve regeneration across a 10-mm gap of the rat sciatic nerve. Before in vivo testing, the PLGA 90:10 tubes were tested in vitro for water uptake and mass loss and compared with collagen sheets. The water uptake of the PLGA tubes was lower, and the mass loss was more rapid and higher than those of the collagen sheets when immersed in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution. The pH values of immersing PBS did not change after soaking the collagen sheets and showed to be around 7.4. On the other hand, the pH values of PBS after soaking PLGA tubes decreased gradually during 10 days reaching values around 3.5. For the in vivo testing, 22 Sasco Sprague adult rats were divided into four groups--group 1: gap not reconstructed; group 2: gap reconstructed using an autologous nerve graft; group 3: gap reconstructed with PLGA 90:10 tube guides; group 4: gap reconstructed with PLGA 90:10 tube guides covered with neural cells differentiated in vitro. Motor and sensory functional recovery was evaluated throughout a healing period of 20 weeks using sciatic functional index, static sciatic index, extensor postural thrust, withdrawal reflex latency, and ankle kinematics. Stereological analysis was carried out on regenerated nerve fibers. Both motor and sensory functions improved significantly in the three experimental nerve repair groups, although the rate and extent of recovery was significantly higher in the group where the gap was reconstructed using the autologous graft. The presence of neural cells covering the inside of the PLGA tube guides did not make any difference in the functional recovery. By contrast, morphometric analysis showed that the introduction of N1E-115 cells inside PLGA 90:10 tube guides led to a significant lower number

  14. In vivo uptake and acute immune response to orally administered chitosan and PEG coated PLGA nanoparticles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Semete, B., E-mail: Bsemete@csir.co.z; Booysen, L.I.J.; Department of Pharmaceutics, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, 2520

    2010-12-01

    Nanoparticulate drug delivery systems offer great promise in addressing challenges of drug toxicity, poor bioavailability and non-specificity for a number of drugs. Much progress has been reported for nano drug delivery systems for intravenous administration, however very little is known about the effects of orally administered nanoparticles. Furthermore, the development of nanoparticulate systems necessitates a thorough understanding of the biological response post exposure. This study aimed to elucidate the in vivo uptake of chitosan and polyethylene glycol (PEG) coated Poly, DL, lactic-co-glycolic Acid (PLGA) nanoparticles and the immunological response within 24 h of oral and peritoneal administration. These PLGA nanoparticlesmore » were administered orally and peritoneally to female Balb/C mice, they were taken up by macrophages of the peritoneum. When these particles were fluorescently labelled, intracellular localisation was observed. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-2, IL-6, IL-12p70 and TNF-{alpha} in plasma and peritoneal lavage was found to remain at low concentration in PLGA nanoparticles treated mice as well as ZnO nanoparticles during the 24 hour period. However, these were significantly increased in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated mice. Of these pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and IL-12p70 were produced at the highest concentration in the positive control group. The anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and chemokines INF-{gamma}, IL-4, IL-5 remained at normal levels in PLGA treated mice. IL-10 and INF-{gamma} were significantly increased in LPS treated mice. MCP-1 was found to be significantly produced in all groups in the first hours, except the saline treated mice. These results provide the first report to detail the induction of cytokine production by PLGA nanoparticles engineered for oral applications.« less

  15. Impact of surfactants on the target recognition of Fab-conjugated PLGA nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Kennedy, Patrick J; Perreira, Ines; Ferreira, Daniel; Nestor, Marika; Oliveira, Carla; Granja, Pedro L; Sarmento, Bruno

    2018-06-01

    Targeted drug delivery with nanoparticles (NPs) requires proper surface ligand presentation and availability. Surfactants are often used as stabilizers in the production of targeted NPs. Here, we evaluated the impact of surfactants on ligand functionalization and downstream molecular recognition. Our model system consisted of fluorescent poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NPs that were nanoprecipitated in one of a small panel of commonly-used surfactants followed by equivalent washes and conjugation of an engineered Fab antibody fragment. Size, polydispersity index and zeta potential were determined by dynamic light scattering and laser Doppler anemometry, and Fab presence on the NPs was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Most importantly, Fab-decorated NP binding to the cell surface receptor was monitored by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. 2% polyvinyl alcohol, 1% sodium cholate, 0.5% Pluronic F127 (F127) and 2% Tween-80 were initially tested. Of the four surfactants tested, PLGA NPs in 0.5% F127 and 2% Tween-80 had the highest cell binding. These two surfactants were then retested in two different concentrations, 0.5% and 2%. The Fab-decorated PLGA NPs in 2% F127 had the highest cell binding. This study highlights the impact of common surfactants and their concentrations on the downstream targeting of ligand-decorated NPs. Similar principles should be applied in the development of future targeted nanosystems where surfactants are employed. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Evaluation of an injectable rhGDF-5/PLGA construct for minimally invasive periodontal regenerative procedures: a histological study in the dog.

    PubMed

    Kwon, David H; Bennett, William; Herberg, Samuel; Bastone, Patrizia; Pippig, Susanne; Rodriguez, Nancy A; Susin, Cristiano; Wikesjö, Ulf M E

    2010-04-01

    To evaluate the injectability, biocompatibility, safety, and periodontal wound healing/regeneration following application of a novel bioresorbable recombinant human growth/differentiation factor-5 (rhGDF-5)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) construct. Periodontal pockets (3 x 6 mm, width x depth) were surgically created over the buccal roots of the second and fourth mandibular pre-molars in eight adult Hound Labrador mongrel dogs. Surgeries including injection of the rhGDF-5/PLGA construct into the pockets were sequenced that four animals provided 2-/4-week and four animals 6-/8-week observations of sites receiving rhGDF-5/PLGA or serving as sham-surgery control. The rhGDF-5/PLGA construct was easy to prepare and apply. Approximately 0.2 ml (93 microg rhGDF-5)/tooth was used. Clinical and radiographic healing was exemplary without adverse events. Healing was characterized by a non-specific connective tissue attachment, acellular/cellular cementum, periodontal ligament (PDL), bone regeneration, and a junctional epithelium. PLGA fragments were observed in 4/7, 2/8, and 1/8 sites at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, respectively. Associated inflammatory reactions exhibited no limiting effect on periodontal wound healing/regeneration. Root resorption/ankylosis was not observed. Bone formation showed apparent increased maturity (lamellar bone) at 6 weeks in sites receiving rhGDF-5/PLGA compared with the control. Both protocols exhibited significant increases in PDL, cementum, and bone regeneration over time, without significant differences between treatments. In time, PDL and cementum regeneration was twofold greater for the control at 4 weeks (p=0.04) while increased bone formation was observed at sites receiving rhGDF-5/PLGA (p<0.01). In conclusion, the rhGDF-5/PLGA construct appears to be a safe technology for injectable, ease-of-use application of rhGDF-5-stimulated periodontal wound healing/regeneration. Additional work to optimize the polymer carrier and rhGDF-5 release

  17. An experimental design approach to the preparation of pegylated polylactide-co-glicolide gentamicin loaded microparticles for local antibiotic delivery.

    PubMed

    Dorati, Rossella; DeTrizio, Antonella; Genta, Ida; Grisoli, Pietro; Merelli, Alessia; Tomasi, Corrado; Conti, Bice

    2016-01-01

    The present paper takes into account the DOE application to the preparation process of biodegradable microspheres for osteomyelitis local therapy. With this goal gentamicin loaded polylactide-co-glycolide-copolyethyleneglycol (PLGA-PEG) microspheres were prepared and investigated. Two preparation protocols (o/w and w/o/w) with different process conditions, and three PLGA-PEG block copolymers with different compositions of lactic and glycolic acids and PEG, were tested. A Design Of Experiment (DOE) screening design was applied as an approach to scale up manufacturing step. The results of DOE screening design confirmed that w/o/w technique, the presence of salt and the 15%w/v polymer concentration positively affected the EE% (72.1-97.5%), and span values of particle size distribution (1.03-1.23), while salt addition alone negatively affected the yield process. Process scale up resulted in a decrease of gentamicin EE% that can be attributed to the high volume of water used to remove PVA and NaCl residues. The results of in vitro gentamicin release study show prolonged gentamicin release up to three months from the microspheres prepared with salt addition in the dispersing phase; the behavior being consistent with their highly compact structure highlighted by scanning electron microscopy analysis. The prolonged release of gentamicin is maintained even after embedding the biodegradable microspheres into a thermosetting composite gel made of chitosan and acellular bovine bone matrix (Orthoss® granules), and the microbiologic evaluation demonstrated the efficacy of the gentamicin loaded microspheres on Escherichia coli. The collected results confirm the feasibility of the scale up of microsphere manufacturing process and the high potential of the microparticulate drug delivery system to be used for the local antibiotic delivery to bone.

  18. Demonstration of sub-femtomole sensitivity for small molecules with microsphere ring resonator sensors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    White, Ian M.; Oveys, Hesam; Fan, Xudong

    2006-02-01

    Optical microsphere resonators can function as highly sensitive bio/chemical sensors due to the large Q-factor, which leads to high light-matter interaction. The whispering gallery modes (WGM) arise at the surface of the microsphere, creating a highly enhanced optical field that interacts with matter on or near the microsphere surface. As a result, the spectral position of the WGM is extremely sensitive to refractive index changes near the surface, such as when bio/chemical molecules bind to the sphere. We show the potential feasibility of a microsphere ring resonator as a sensor for small molecules by demonstrating detection of sub-femtomole changes in SiO II molecules at the surface of the microsphere. In this experiment, the silica molecules act as an excellent model for small molecule analytes because of their 60 Dalton molecular weight, and because we know nearly the exact quantity of molecules at the surface, which enables a sensitivity characterization. We measure the spectral shifts in the WGMs when low concentrations of hydrofluoric acid (HF) are added to a solution that is being probed by the microsphere. As the HF molecules break apart the SiO II molecules at the sphere surface, the WGMs shift due to the sub-nano-scale decrease in the size of the microsphere. These calculations show that the sensitivity of this microsphere resonator is on the order of 500 attomoles. Our results will lead to the utilization of optical microspheres for detection of trace quantities of small molecules for such applications as drug discovery, environmental monitoring, and enzyme detection using peptide cleavage.

  19. Elimination of mouse tumor cells from neonate spermatogonial cells utilizing cisplatin-entrapped folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles in vitro.

    PubMed

    Shabani, Ronak; Ashjari, Mohsen; Ashtari, Khadijeh; Izadyar, Fariborz; Behnam, Babak; Khoei, Samideh; Asghari-Jafarabadi, Mohamad; Koruji, Morteza

    2018-01-01

    Some male survivors of childhood cancer are suffering from azoospermia. In addition, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are necessary for the improvement of spermatogenesis subsequent to exposure to cytotoxic agents such as cisplatin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) on mouse malignant cell line (EL4) and SSCs in vitro. SSCs were co-cultured with mouse malignant cell line (EL4) cells and divided into four culture groups: 1) control (cells were co-cultured in the culture medium), 2) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin (10 μg/mL), 3) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated PLGA NPs, and 4) co-cultures were treated with folic acid-conjugated PLGA for 48 hours. The NPs were prepared, characterized, and targeted with folate. In vitro release characteristics, loading efficiency, and scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images were studied. Cancer cells were assayed after treatment using flow cytometry and TUNEL assay. The co-cultures of SSCs and EL4 cells were injected into seminiferous tubules of the testes after treating with cis-diaminedichloroplatinum/PLGA NPs. The mean diameter of PLGA NPs ranged between 150 and 250 nm. The number of TUNEL-positive cells increased, and the expression of Bax and caspase-3 were upregulated in EL4 cells in Group 4 compared with Group 2. There was no pathological tumor in testes after transplantation with treated co-cultured cells. The PLGA NPs appeared to act as a promising carrier for cisplatin administration, which was consistent with a higher activation of apoptosis than free drug.

  20. Curcumin conjugated with PLGA potentiates sustainability, anti-proliferative activity and apoptosis in human colon carcinoma cells.

    PubMed

    Waghela, Bhargav N; Sharma, Anupama; Dhumale, Suhashini; Pandey, Shashibahl M; Pathak, Chandramani

    2015-01-01

    Curcumin, an ingredient of turmeric, exhibits a variety of biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer and anti-metastatic. It is a highly pleiotropic molecule that inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. Despite its imperative biological activities, chemical instability, photo-instability and poor bioavailability limits its utilization as an effective therapeutic agent. Therefore, enhancing the bioavailability of curcumin may improve its therapeutic index for clinical setting. In the present study, we have conjugated curcumin with a biodegradable polymer Poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) and evaluated its apoptotic potential in human colon carcinoma cells (HCT 116). The results show that curcumin-PLGA conjugate efficiently inhibits cell proliferation and cell survival in human colon carcinoma cells as compared to native curcumin. Additionally, curcumin conjugated with PLGA shows improved cellular uptake and exhibits controlled release at physiological pH as compared to native curcumin. The curcumin-PLGA conjugate efficiently activates the cascade of caspases and promotes intrinsic apoptotic signaling. Thus, the results suggest that conjugation potentiates the sustainability, anti-proliferative and apoptotic activity of curcumin. This approach could be a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic index of cancer therapy.

  1. Methotrexate-loaded PLGA nanobubbles for ultrasound imaging and Synergistic Targeted therapy of residual tumor during HIFU ablation.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xuemei; Zheng, Yuanyi; Wang, Zhigang; Huang, Shuai; Chen, Yu; Jiang, Wei; Zhang, Hua; Ding, Mingxia; Li, Qingshu; Xiao, Xiaoqiu; Luo, Xin; Wang, Zhibiao; Qi, Hongbo

    2014-06-01

    High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has attracted the great attention in tumor ablation due to its non-invasive, efficient and economic features. However, HIFU ablation has its intrinsic limitations for removing the residual tumor cells, thus the tumor recurrence and metastasis cannot be avoided in this case. Herein, we developed a multifunctional targeted poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanobubbles (NBs), which not only function as an efficient ultrasound contrast agent for tumor imaging, but also a targeted anticancer drug carrier and excellent synergistic agent for enhancing the therapeutic efficiency of HIFU ablation. Methotrexate (MTX)-loaded NBs were synthesized and filled with perfluorocarbon gas subsequently using a facile but general double emulsion evaporation method. The active tumor-targeting monoclonal anti-HLA-G antibodies (mAbHLA-G) were further conjugated onto the surface of nanobubbles. The mAbHLA-G/MTX/PLGA NBs could enhance the ultrasound imaging both in vitro and in vivo, and the targeting efficiency to HLA-G overexpressing JEG-3 cells has been demonstrated. The elaborately designed mAbHLA-G/MTX/PLGA NBs can specifically target to the tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo, and their blood circulation time in vivo was much longer than non-targeted MTX/PLGA NBs. Further therapeutic evaluations showed that the targeted NBs as a synergistic agent can significantly improve the efficiency of HIFU ablation by changing the acoustic environment, and the focused ultrasound can promote the on-demand MTX release both in vitro and in vivo. The in vivo histopathology test and immunohistochemical analysis showed that the mAbHLA-G/MTX/PLGA NBs plus HIFU group presented most serious coagulative necrosis, the lowest proliferation index and the highest apoptotic index. Therefore, the successful introduction of targeted mAbHLA-G/MTX/PLGA NBs provides an excellent platform for the highly efficient, imaging-guided and non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy

  2. Tabletted microspheres containing Cynara scolymus (var. Spinoso sardo) extract for the preparation of controlled release nutraceutical matrices.

    PubMed

    Gavini, E; Alamanni, M C; Cossu, M; Giunchedi, P

    2005-08-01

    Controlled release dosage forms based on tabletted microspheres containing fresh artichoke Cynara scolymus extract were performed for the oral administration of a nutritional supplement. Microspheres were prepared using a spray-drying technique; lactose or hypromellose have been chosen as excipients. Microspheres were characterized in terms of encapsulated extract content, size and morphology. Qualitative and quantitative composition of the extract before and after the spray process was determined. Compressed matrices (tablets) were prepared by direct compression of the spray-dried microspheres. In vitro release tests of microparticles and tablets prepared were carried out in both acidic and neutral media. Spray-drying is a good method to prepare microspheres containing the artichoke extract. The microspheres encapsulate an amount of extract close to the theoretical value. Particle size analyses indicate that the microparticles have dvs of approximately 6-7 microm. Electronic microscopy observations reveal that particles based on lactose have spherical shape and particles containing hypromellose are almost collapsed. The hydroalcoholic extract is stable to the microsphere production process: its polyphenolic composition (qualitative and quantitative) did not change after spraying. In vitro release studies show that microparticles characterized by a quick polyphenolic release both in acidic and neutral media due to the high water solubility of the carrier lactose. On the contrary, microspheres based hypromellose release only 20% of the loaded extract at pH 1.2 in 2 h and the total amount of polyphenols is released only after about further 6 h at pH 6.8. Matrices prepared tabletting lactose microspheres and hypromellose microparticles in the weight ratio 1:1 show a slow release rate, that lasts approximately 24 h. This one-a-day sustained release formulation containing Cynara scolymus extract could be proposed as a nutraceutical controlled release dosage form for

  3. Microspheres Assembled from Chitosan-Graft-Poly(lactic acid) Micelle-Like Core-Shell Nanospheres for Distinctly Controlled Release of Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Biomolecules.

    PubMed

    Niu, Xufeng; Liu, Zhongning; Hu, Jiang; Rambhia, Kunal J; Fan, Yubo; Ma, Peter X

    2016-07-01

    To simultaneously control inflammation and facilitate dentin regeneration, a copolymeric micelle-in-microsphere platform is developed in this study, aiming to simultaneously release a hydrophobic drug to suppress inflammation and a hydrophilic biomolecule to enhance odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells in a distinctly controlled fashion. A series of chitosan-graft-poly(lactic acid) copolymers is synthesized with varying lactic acid and chitosan weight ratios, self-assembled into nanoscale micelle-like core-shell structures in an aqueous system, and subsequently crosslinked into microspheres through electrostatic interaction with sodium tripolyphosphate. A hydrophobic biomolecule either coumarin-6 or fluocinolone acetonide (FA) is encapsulated into the hydrophobic cores of the micelles, while a hydrophilic biomolecule either bovine serum albumin or bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) is entrapped in the hydrophilic shells and the interspaces among the micelles. Both hydrophobic and hydrophilic biomolecules are delivered with distinct and tunable release patterns. Delivery of FA and BMP-2 simultaneously suppresses inflammation and enhances odontogenesis, resulting in significantly enhanced mineralized tissue regeneration. This result also demonstrates the potential for this novel delivery system to deliver multiple therapeutics and to achieve synergistic effects. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  4. Development of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles-embedded hyaluronic acid-ceramide-based nanostructure for tumor-targeted drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Park, Ju-Hwan; Lee, Jae-Young; Termsarasab, Ubonvan; Yoon, In-Soo; Ko, Seung-Hak; Shim, Jae-Seong; Cho, Hyun-Jong; Kim, Dae-Duk

    2014-10-01

    A hyaluronic acid-ceramide (HACE) nanostructure embedded with docetaxel (DCT)-loaded poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) was fabricated for tumor-targeted drug delivery. NPs with a narrow size distribution and negative zeta potential were prepared by embedding DCT-loaded PLGA NPs into a HACE nanostructure (DCT/PLGA/HACE). DCT-loaded PLGA and DCT/PLGA/HACE NPs were characterized by solid-state techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). A sustained drug release pattern from the NPs developed was observed and negligible cytotoxicity was seen in NIH3T3 cells (normal fibroblast, CD44 receptor negative) and MDA-MB-231 cells (breast cancer cells, CD44 receptor positive). PLGA/HACE NPs containing coumarin 6, used as a fluorescent dye, exhibited improved cellular uptake efficiency, based on the HA-CD44 receptor interaction, compared to plain PLGA NPs. Cyanine 5.5 (Cy5.5)-labeled PLGA/HACE NPs were injected intravenously into a MDA-MB-231 tumor xenograft mouse model and demonstrated enhanced tumor targetability, compared with Cy5.5-PLGA NPs, according to a near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging study. Considering these experimental results, the DCT/PLGA/HACE NPs developed may be useful as a tumor-targeted drug delivery system. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Surface modified PLGA nanoparticles for brain targeting of Bacoside-A.

    PubMed

    Jose, S; Sowmya, S; Cinu, T A; Aleykutty, N A; Thomas, S; Souto, E B

    2014-10-15

    The present paper focuses on the development and in vitro/in vivo characterization of nanoparticles composed of poly-(D,L)-Lactide-co-Glycolide (PLGA) loading Bacoside-A, as a new approach for the brain delivery of the neuroprotective drug for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders (e.g. Alzheimer Disease). Bacoside-A-loaded PLGA nanoparticles were prepared via o/w emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Surface of the nanoparticles were modified by coating with polysorbate 80 to facilitate the crossing of the blood brain barrier (BBB), and the processing parameters (i.e. sonication time, the concentration of polymer (PLGA) and surfactant (polysorbate 80), and drug-polymer ratio) were optimized with the aim to achieve a high production yield. Brain targeting potential of the nanoparticles was evaluated by in vivo studies using Wistar albino rats. The nanoparticles produced by optimal formulation were within the nanosized range (70-200 nm) with relatively low polydispersity index (0.391 ± 1.2). The encapsulation efficiency of Bacoside-A in PLGA nanoparticles was 57.11 ± 7.11%, with a drug loading capacity of 20.5 ± 1.98%. SEM images showed the spherical shape of the PLGA nanoparticles, whereas their low crystallinity was demonstrated by X-ray studies, which also confirmed no chemical interactions between the drug and polymer molecules. The in vitro release of Bacoside-A from the PLGA nanoparticles followed a sustained release pattern with a maximum release of up to 83.04 ± 2.55% in 48 h. When compared to pure drug solution (2.56 ± 1.23 μg/g tissue), in vivo study demonstrated higher brain concentration of Bacoside-A (23.94 ± 1.74 μg/g tissue) suggesting a significant role of surface coated nanoparticles on brain targeting. The results indicate the potential of surface modified PLGA nanoparticles for the delivery of Bacoside-A to the brain. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Effects of annulus defects and implantation of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)/fibrin gel scaffolds on nerves ingrowth in a rabbit model of annular injury disc degeneration.

    PubMed

    Xin, Long; Xu, Weixing; Yu, Leijun; Fan, Shunwu; Wang, Wei; Yu, Fang; Wang, Zhenbin

    2017-05-12

    Growth of nerve fibers has been shown to occur in a rabbit model of intravertebral disc degeneration (IVD) induced by needle puncture. As nerve growth may underlie the process of chronic pain in humans affected by disc degeneration, we sought to investigate the factors underlying nerve ingrowth in a minimally invasive annulotomy rabbit model of IVD by comparing the effects of empty disc defects with those of defects filled with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/fibrin gel (PLGA) plugs. New Zealand white rabbits (n = 24) received annular injuries at three lumbar levels (L3/4, L4/5, and L5/6). The discs were randomly assigned to four groups: (a) annular defect (1.8-mm diameter; 4-mm depth) by mini-trephine, (b) annular defect implanted with a PLGA scaffold containing a fibrin gel, (c) annular puncture by a 16G needle (5-mm depth), and (d) uninjured L2/3 disc (control). Disc degeneration was evaluated by radiography, MRI, histology, real-time PCR, and analysis of proteoglycan (PG) content. Nerve ingrowth into the discs was assessed by immunostaining with the nerve marker protein gene product 9.5. Injured discs showed a progressive disc space narrowing with significant disc degeneration and proteoglycan loss, as confirmed by imaging results, molecular and compositional analysis, and histological examinations. In 16G punctured discs, nerve ingrowth was observed on the surface of scar tissue. In annular defects, nerve fibers were found to be distributed along small fissures within the fibrocartilaginous-like tissue that filled the AF. In discs filled with PLGA/ fibrin gel, more nerve fibers were observed growing deeper into the inner AF along the open annular track.  In addition, innervations scores showed significantly higher than those of punctured discs and empty defects. A limited vascular proliferation was found in the injured sites and regenerated tissues. Nerve ingrowth was significantly higher in PLGA/fibrin-filled discs than in empty defects. Possible

  7. Synthesis and improved SERS performance of silver nanoparticles-decorated surface mesoporous silica microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, Tao; Wang, Xiaolong; Zhang, Li; Zhou, Jun; Zhao, Ziqi

    2016-08-01

    This study reported the improved Raman enhancement ability of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) decorated on surface mesoporous silica microspheres (MSiO2@Ag) than that of Ag NPs on solid silica microspheres (SSiO2@Ag). These two kinds of hybrid structures were prepared by a facile single-step hydrothermal reaction with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) serves as both a reductant and stabilizer. The as-synthesized MSiO2@Ag microspheres show more significant surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity for 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (4MBA) than SSiO2@Ag microspheres with enhancement factors as 9.20 × 106 and 4.39 × 106, respectively. The proposed reason for the higher SERS activity is estimated to be the contribution of more Raman probe molecules at the mesoporous channels where an enhanced electromagnetic field exists. Such a field was identified by theoretical calculation result. The MSiO2@Ag microspheres were eventually demonstrated for the SERS detection of a typical chemical toxin namely methyl parathion with a detection limit as low as 1 × 10-3 ppm, showing its promising potential in biosensor application.

  8. Novel "breath figure"-based synthetic PLGA matrices for in vitro modeling of mammary morphogenesis and assessing chemotherapeutic response.

    PubMed

    Ponnusamy, Thiruselvam; Chakravarty, Geetika; Mondal, Debasis; John, Vijay T

    2014-05-01

    Biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) porous films are developed to support mammary cell growth and function. Such porous polymer matrices of PLGA are generated using the easily implemented water-templating "breath-figure" technique that allows water droplets to penetrate the nascent polymer films to create a rough porous polymer film. Such breath figure-based micropatterned porous films show higher epithelial differentiation and growth than the corresponding flat 2D films, and represent the first instance of using them for tissue culture. Specifically, the breath figure morphology supports robust acinar growth with almost double the number of lobular-alveolar units compared to the 2D cultures. Gene profile analysis indicates that the cells grown on porous polymer films show enhanced expressions of mammary differentiation genes (GATA3, EMA, and INTEGB4) but lower the expression of mesenchymal gene (CALLA). Hormonal stimulation of these cultures dramatically increases expression of progenitor marker gene Notch1. Importantly, cells grown on porous PLGA films exhibit an enhanced resistance to doxorubicin treatment in comparison to 2D cultures. Breath-figure PLGA films show promise in mimicking in vivo mammary functions and can potentially be used to screen chemotherapeutic drugs. The simplicity and ease of fabrication of these polymer films is especially appealing to the development of effective biomaterials to support cell culture and differentiation. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  9. Improved biocompatibility of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) orv and poly-L-lactic acid blended with nanoparticulate amorphous calcium phosphate in vascular stent applications.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Xiaoxin; Wang, Yujue; Lan, Zhiyuan; Lyu, Yongnan; Feng, Gaoke; Zhang, Yipei; Tagusari, Shizu; Kislauskis, Edward; Robich, Michael P; McCarthy, Stephen; Sellke, Frank W; Laham, Roger; Jiang, Xuejun; Gu, Wei Wang; Wu, Tim

    2014-06-01

    Biodegradable polymers used as vascular stent coatings and stent platforms encounter a major challenge: biocompatibility in vivo, which plays an important role in in-stent restenosis (ISR). Co-formulating amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) or poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) was investigated to address the issue. For stent coating applications, metal stents were coated with polyethylene-co-vinyl acetate/poly-n-butyl methacrylate (PEVA/PBMA), PLGA or PLGA/ACP composites, and implanted into rat aortas for one and three months. Comparing with both PEVA/PBMA and PLGA groups after one month, the results showed that stents coated with PLGA/ACP had significantly reduced restenosis (PLGA/ACP vs. PEVA/PBMA vs. PLGA: 21.24 +/- 2.59% vs. 27.54 +/- 1.19% vs. 32.12 +/- 3.93%, P < 0.05), reduced inflammation (1.25 +/- 0.35 vs. 1.77 +/- 0.38 vs. 2.30 +/- 0.21, P < 0.05) and increased speed of re-endothelialization (1.78 +/- 0.46 vs. 1.17 +/- 0.18 vs. 1.20 +/- 0.18, P < 0.05). After three months, the PLGA/ACP group still displayed lower inflammation score (1.33 +/- 0.33 vs. 2.27 +/- 0.55, P < 0.05) and higher endothelial scores (2.33 +/- 0.33 vs. 1.20 +/- 0.18, P < 0.05) as compared with the PEVA/PBMA group. Moreover, for stent platform applications, PLLA/ACP stent tube significantly reduced the inflammatory cells infiltration in the vessel walls of rabbit iliac arteries relative to their PLLA cohort (NF-kappaB-positive cells: 23.31 +/- 2.33/mm2 vs. 9.34 +/- 1.35/mm2, P < 0.05). No systemic biochemical or pathological evidence of toxicity was found in either PLGA/ACP or PLLA/ACP. The co-formulation of ACP into PLGA and PLLA resulted in improved biocompatibility without systemic toxicity.

  10. Magnetic poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and cellulose particles for MRI-based cell tracking

    PubMed Central

    Nkansah, Michael K.; Thakral, Durga; Shapiro, Erik M.

    2010-01-01

    Biodegradable, superparamagnetic micro- and nanoparticles of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and cellulose were designed, fabricated and characterized for magnetic cell labeling. Monodisperse nanocrystals of magnetite were incorporated into micro- and nanoparticles of PLGA and cellulose with high efficiency using an oil-in-water single emulsion technique. Superparamagnetic cores had high magnetization (72.1 emu/g). The resulting polymeric particles had smooth surface morphology and high magnetite content (43.3 wt% for PLGA and 69.6 wt% for cellulose). While PLGA and cellulose nanoparticles displayed highest r2* values per millimole of iron (399 s-1mM-1 for cellulose and 505 s-1mM-1 for PLGA), micron-sized PLGA particles had a much higher r2* per particle than either. After incubation for a month in citrate buffer (pH 5.5), magnetic PLGA particles lost close to 50% of their initial r2* molar relaxivity, while magnetic cellulose particles remained intact, preserving over 85% of their initial r2* molar relaxivity. Lastly, mesenchymal stem cells and human breast adenocarcinoma cells were magnetically labeled using these particles with no detectable cytotoxicity. These particles are ideally suited for non-invasive cell tracking in vivo via MRI and due to their vastly different degradation properties, offer unique potential for dedicated use for either short (PLGA-based particles) or long term (cellulose-based particles) experiments. PMID:21404328

  11. Scolicidal and apoptotic activities of albendazole sulfoxide and albendazole sulfoxide-loaded PLGA-PEG as a novel nanopolymeric particle against Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces.

    PubMed

    Naseri, Marziyeh; Akbarzadeh, Abolfazl; Spotin, Adel; Akbari, Nagibeh Asl Rahnemaii; Mahami-Oskouei, Mahmoud; Ahmadpour, Ehsan

    2016-12-01

    Treatment failures of human cystic echinococcosis (CE) with albendazole (ABZ) have attributed to its low solubility and poor drug absorption rate, resulting in low drug level in plasma. The scolicidal effects of ABZ-loaded liposome nanoparticles have recently evaluated; however, these particles have several challenges due to their low encapsulated load. This investigation was designed to evaluate and compare in vitro apoptotic activities of ABZ sulfoxide (ABZs) and ABZs-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-PEG against protoscoleces (PSCs). ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG was prepared by a double-emulsion method (W1/O/W2). Various concentrations of ABZs and ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG (50, 100, 150, and 200 μg/ml) were experimentally tested against PSC of CE at different exposure times (5, 10, 20, 30, and 60 min). ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG at concentrations of 150 and 200 μg/ml was able to act at a 100 % scolicidal rate in all exposure times (5 to 60 min), while ABZs at a concentration of 200 μg/ml demonstrated 94, 100, and 100 % mortality rates following 20, 30, and 60 min of exposure times, respectively. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of caspase-3 was assessed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR after 15 h of exposure. Caspase-3 mRNA expression was higher in both PSC treated with ABZs and PSC treated with ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG than that in control groups (P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the apoptotic intensity of PSC treated with ABZs and that of PSC treated with ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG (P > 0.05). DNA fragmentation assay and ultrastructural changes revealed that ABZs and ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG induced the apoptosis of PSC by activation of caspase-3. The higher permeability and scolicidal rate of ABZs-loaded PLGA-PEG can be addressed as an effectual alternative strategy to improve the treatment of human CE.

  12. Immunization against leishmaniasis by PLGA nanospheres loaded with an experimental autoclaved Leishmania major (ALM) and Quillaja saponins.

    PubMed

    Tafaghodi, M; Eskandari, M; Kharazizadeh, M; Khamesipour, A; Jaafari, M R

    2010-12-01

    Immune responses against the Leishmania antigens are not sufficient to protect against a leishmania challenge. Therefore these antigens need to be potentiated by various adjuvants and delivery systems. In this study, Poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nanospheres as antigen delivery system and Quillaja saponins (QS) as immunoadjuvant have been used to enhance the immune response against autoclaved Leishmania major (ALM). PLGA nanospheres were prepared by a double-emulsion (W/O/W) technique. Particulate characteristics were studied by scanning electron microscopy and particle size analysis. Mean diameter for nanospheres loaded with ALM+QS was 294 ± 106 nm. BALB/c mice were immunized three times in 3-weeks intervals using ALM plus QS loaded nanospheres [(ALM+QS)PLGA], ALM encapsulated with PLGA nanospheres [(ALM)PLGA], (ALM)PLGA + QS, ALM + QS, ALM alone or PBS. The intensity of infection induced by L. major challenge was assessed by measuring size of footpad swelling. The strongest protection, showed by significantly (P < 0.05) smaller footpad, were observed in mice immunized with (ALM)PLGA. The (ALM+QS)PLGA group showed the least protection and highest swelling, while the (ALM)PLGA+QS, ALM+QS and ALM showed an intermediate protection with no significant difference. The mice immunized with ALM and ALM+QS showed the highest IgG2a/IgG1 ratio (P < 0.01), followed by (ALM)PLGA+QS. The highest IFN-γ and lowest IL-4 production was seen in (ALM)PLGA+QS, ALM+QS groups. The highest parasite burden was observed in (ALM)PLGA+QS and (ALM+QS)PLGA groups. It is concluded that PLGA nanospheres as a vaccine delivery system could increase the protective immune responses, but QS adjuvant has a reverse effect on protective immune responses and the least protective responses were seen in the presence of this adjuvant.

  13. Response of human dental pulp cells to a silver-containing PLGA/TCP-nanofabric as a potential antibacterial regenerative pulp-capping material.

    PubMed

    Cvikl, Barbara; Hess, Samuel C; Miron, Richard J; Agis, Hermann; Bosshardt, Dieter; Attin, Thomas; Schmidlin, Patrick R; Lussi, Adrian

    2017-02-27

    Damage or exposure of the dental pulp requires immediate therapeutic intervention. This study assessed the biocompatibility of a silver-containing PLGA/TCP-nanofabric scaffold (PLGA/Ag-TCP) in two in vitro models, i.e. the material adapted on pre-cultured cells and cells directly cultured on the material, respectively. Collagen saffolds with and without hyaluronan acid (Coll-HA; Coll) using both cell culturing methods and cells growing on culture plates served as reference. Cell viability and proliferation were assessed after 24, 48, and 72 h based on formazan formation and BrdU incorporation. Scaffolds were harvested. Gene expression of interleukin(IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and alkaline phosphatase (AP) was assessed 24 h after stimulation. In both models formazan formation and BrdU incorporation was reduced by PLGA/Ag-TCP on dental pulp cells, while no significant reduction was found in cells with Coll and Coll-HA. Cells with PLGA/Ag-TCP for 72 h showed similar relative BrdU incorporation than cells stimulated with Coll and Coll-HA. A prominent increase in the pro-inflammatory genes IL-6 and TNF-α was observed when cells were cultured with PLGA/Ag-TCP compared to the other groups. This increase was parallel with a slight increase in AP expression. Overall, no differences between the two culture methods were observed. PLGA/Ag-TCP decreased viability and proliferation rate of human dental pulp cells and increased the pro-inflammatory capacity and alkaline phosphatase expression. Whether these cellular responses observed in vitro translate into pulp regeneration in vivo will be assessed in further studies.

  14. Towards development of novel immunization strategies against leishmaniasis using PLGA nanoparticles loaded with kinetoplastid membrane protein-11.

    PubMed

    Santos, Diego M; Carneiro, Marcia W; de Moura, Tatiana R; Fukutani, Kiyoshi; Clarencio, Jorge; Soto, Manuel; Espuelas, Socorro; Brodskyn, Claudia; Barral, Aldina; Barral-Netto, Manoel; de Oliveira, Camila I

    2012-01-01

    Vaccine development has been a priority in the fight against leishmaniases, which are vector-borne diseases caused by Leishmania protozoa. Among the different immunization strategies employed to date is inoculation of plasmid DNA coding for parasite antigens, which has a demonstrated ability to induce humoral and cellular immune responses. In this sense, inoculation of plasmid DNA encoding Leishmania kinetoplasmid membrane protein-11 (KMP-11) was able to confer protection against visceral leishmaniasis. However, recently the use of antigen delivery systems such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles has also proven effective for eliciting protective immune responses. In the present work, we tested two immunization strategies with the goal of obtaining protection, in terms of lesion development and parasite load, against cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by L. braziliensis. One strategy involved immunization with plasmid DNA encoding L. infantum chagasi KMP-11. Alternatively, mice were primed with PLGA nanoparticles loaded with the recombinant plasmid DNA and boosted using PLGA nanoparticles loaded with recombinant KMP-11. Both immunization strategies elicited detectable cellular immune responses with the presence of both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines; mice receiving the recombinant PLGA nanoparticle formulations also demonstrated anti-KMP-11 IgG1 and IgG2a. Mice were then challenged with L. braziliensis, in the presence of sand fly saliva. Lesion development was not inhibited following either immunization strategy. However, immunization with PLGA nanoparticles resulted in a more prominent reduction in parasite load at the infection site when compared with immunization using plasmid DNA alone. This effect was associated with a local increase in interferon-gamma and in tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Both immunization strategies also resulted in a lower parasite load in the draining lymph nodes, albeit not significantly. Our results

  15. A Novel High Mechanical Property PLGA Composite Matrix Loaded with Nanodiamond-Phospholipid Compound for Bone Tissue Engineering.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Fan; Song, Qingxin; Huang, Xuan; Li, Fengning; Wang, Kun; Tang, Yixing; Hou, Canglong; Shen, Hongxing

    2016-01-20

    A potential bone tissue engineering material was produced from a biodegradable polymer, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), loaded with nanodiamond phospholipid compound (NDPC) via physical mixing. On the basis of hydrophobic effects and physical absorption, we modified the original hydrophilic surface of the nanodiamond (NDs) with phospholipids to be amphipathic, forming a typical core-shell structure. The ND-phospholipid weight ratio was optimized to generate sample NDPC50 (i.e., ND-phospholipid weight ratio of 100:50), and NDPC50 was able to be dispersed in a PLGA matrix at up to 20 wt %. Compared to a pure PLGA matrix, the introduction of 10 wt % of NDPC (i.e., sample NDPC50-PF10) resulted in a significant improvement in the material's mechanical and surface properties, including a decrease in the water contact angle from 80 to 55°, an approximately 100% increase in the Young's modulus, and an approximate 550% increase in hardness, thus closely resembling that of human cortical bone. As a novel matrix supporting human osteoblast (hFOB1.19) growth, NDPC50-PFs with different amounts of NDPC50 demonstrated no negative effects on cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. Furthermore, we focused on the behaviors of NDPC-PFs implanted into mice for 8 weeks and found that NDPC-PFs induced acceptable immune response and can reduce the rapid biodegradation of PLGA matrix. Our results represent the first in vivo research on ND (or NDPC) as nanofillers in a polymer matrix for bone tissue engineering. The high mechanical properties, good in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility, and increased mineralization capability suggest that biodegradable PLGA composite matrices loaded with NDPC may potentially be useful for a variety of biomedical applications, especially bone tissue engineering.

  16. PLGA/polymeric liposome for targeted drug and gene co-delivery.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hanjie; Zhao, Peiqi; Su, Wenya; Wang, Sheng; Liao, Zhenyu; Niu, Ruifang; Chang, Jin

    2010-11-01

    Chemotherapy is one of the most effective approaches to treat cancers in the clinic, but the problems, such as multidrug resistance (MDR), low bioavailability and toxicity, severely constrain the further application of chemotherapy. Our group recently reported that cationic PLGA/folate coated PEGlated polymeric liposome core-shell nanoparticles (PLGA/FPL NPs). It was self-assembled from a hydrophobic PLGA core and a hydrophilic folate coated PEGlated lipid shell for targeting co-delivery of drug and gene. Hydrophobic drugs can be incorporated into the core and the cationic shell of the drug-loaded nanoparticles can be used to bind DNA. The drug-loaded PLGA/FPL NPs/DNA complexes offer advantages to overcome these problems mentioned above, such as co-delivery of drugs and DNA to improving the chemosensitivity of cancer cells at a gene level, and targeting delivery of drug to the cancer tissue that enhance the bioavailability and reduce the toxicity. The experiment showed that nanoparticles have core-shell structure with nanosize, sustained drug release profile and good DNA-binding ability. Importantly, the core-shell nanoparticles achieve the possibility of co-delivering drugs and genes to the same cells with high gene transfection and drug delivery efficiency. Our data suggest that the PLGA/FPL NPs may be a useful drug and gene co-delivery system. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Estimation of antigenic tetanus toxoid extracted from biodegradable microspheres.

    PubMed

    Xing, D K; McLellan, K; Corbel, M J; Sesardic, D

    1996-03-01

    Microspheres made from poly (lactic/glycolic acid) polymers have been considered as a new delivery system for single-dose tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccines. One of the most critical properties of the proposed vaccines is the loading and distribution of TT as this will have a profound effect on immunogenicity. As the concentration of TT in microspheres is very low sensitive assay methods are required. An assay incorporating monoclonal antibody (MAb) recognizing a neutralizing epitope and cross-reacting with TT was developed (MAp capture ELISA) which provided a sensitivity of 0.001 Lf/ml. An extraction procedure was devised which did not destroy the antigenicity and gave a recovery of 90.6 +/- 3.39% when applied to different preparations. The extracted TT was then quantified by MAb capture ELISA which was estimated to be 250-fold more sensitive than single-site ELISA for toxoid. The loading of 20 microspheres preparations (12 filled and 8 placebo) was determined by both protein micro-BCA assay and the developed assay for TT. The TT content obtained for the 12 filled microspheres preparations from different sources varied up to 400-fold (range 0.01-4.0 Lf/mg microspheres). The utility of the MAb capture ELISA for detection of total antigenic content in microspheres was confirmed by the observation that the determine TT loading correlated with the theoretical loading predicted from the protein content for the best preparations. Preparations with high loading gave the greatest peak response. There was no relationship between dose and the in vivo immunogenic response, suggesting that encapsulated vaccines with differential loading, release properties and presence of excipients will have different response curves in vivo. Hence, the present assay, when combined with information on toxoid release rate and presence and effect of excipients may be of value in predicting in vivo response.

  18. Immunization against leishmaniasis by PLGA nanospheres encapsulated with autoclaved Leishmania major (ALM) and CpG-ODN.

    PubMed

    Tafaghodi, Mohsen; Khamesipour, Ali; Jaafari, Mahmoud R

    2011-05-01

    Various adjuvants and delivery systems have been evaluated for increasing the protective immune responses against leishmaniasis and mostly have been shown not to be effective enough. In this study, poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanospheres as an antigen delivery system and CpG-ODN as an immunoadjuvant have been used for the first time to enhance the immune response against autoclaved Leishmania major (ALM). PLGA nanospheres were prepared by a double-emulsion (W/O/W) technique. Particulate characteristics were studied by scanning electron microscopy and particle size analysis. Mean diameter of ALM + CpG-ODN-loaded nanospheres was 300 ± 128 nm. BALB/c mice were immunized three times in 3-week intervals using ALM plus CpG-ODN-loaded nanospheres [(ALM + CpG-ODN)(PLGA)], ALM encapsulated PLGA nanospheres [(ALM)(PLGA)], (ALM)(PLGA) + CpG, ALM + CpG, ALM alone, or phosphate buffer solution (PBS). The intensity of infection induced by L. major challenge was assessed by measuring size of footpad swelling. The strongest protection, showed by significantly (P<0.05) smaller footpad, was observed in mice immunized with (ALM + CpG-ODN)(PLGA). The (ALM)(PLGA), (ALM)(PLGA) + CpG, and ALM + CpG were also showed a significantly (P<0.05) smaller footpad swelling compared to the groups received either PBS or ALM alone. The mice immunized with (ALM + CpG-ODN)(PLGA), (ALM)(PLGA) + CpG, and ALM + CpG showed the highest IgG2a/IgG1 ratio, interferon-γ production, and lowest interleukin-4 production compared to the other groups. It is concluded that when both PLGA nanospheres and CpG-ODN adjuvants were used simultaneously, it induce stronger immune response and enhance protection rate against Leishmania infection.

  19. Preparation, characterization and immunological evaluation: canine parvovirus synthetic peptide loaded PLGA nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Derman, Serap; Mustafaeva, Zeynep Akdeste; Abamor, Emrah Sefik; Bagirova, Melahat; Allahverdiyev, Adil

    2015-10-20

    Canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2) remains a significant worldwide canine pathogen and the most common cause of viral enteritis in dogs. The 1 L15 and 7 L15 peptides overlap each other with QPDGGQPAV residues (7-15 of VP2 capsid protein of CPV) is shown to produce high immune response. PLGA nanoparticles were demonstrated to have special properties such as; controlled antigen release, protection from degradation, elimination of booster-dose and enhancing the cellular uptake by antigen presenting cells. Nevertheless, there is no study available in literature, about developing vaccine based on PLGA nanoparticles with adjuvant properties against CPV. Thus, the aim of the present study was to synthesize and characterize high immunogenic W-1 L19 peptide (from the VP2 capsid protein of CPV) loaded PLGA nanoparticle and to evaluate their in vitro immunogenic activity. PLGA nanoparticles were produced with 5.26 ± 0.05 % loading capacity and high encapsulation efficiency with 81.2 ± 3.1 %. Additionally, it was evaluated that free NPs and W-1 L19 peptide encapsulated PLGA nanoparticles have Z-ave of 183.9 ± 12.1 nm, 221.7 ± 15.8 nm and polydispersity index of 0.107 ± 0.08, 0.135 ± 0.12 respectively. It was determined that peptide loaded PLGA nanoparticles were successfully phagocytized by macrophage cells and increased NO production at 2-folds (*P < 0.05) in contrast to free peptide, and 3-folds (*P < 0.01) in contrast to control. In conclusion, for the first time, W-1 L19 peptide loaded PLGA nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and immunogenic properties evaluated. Obtained results showed that PLGA nanoparticles enhanced the capacity of W-1 L19 peptide to induce nitric oxide production in vitro due to its adjuvant properties. Depend on the obtained results, these nanoparticles can be accepted as potential vaccine candidate against Canine Parvovirus. Studies targeting PLGA nanoparticles based delivery system must be maintained in near

  20. Making Polymeric Microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rhim, Won-Kyu; Hyson, Michael T.; Chung, Sang-Kun; Colvin, Michael S.; Chang, Manchium

    1989-01-01

    Combination of advanced techniques yields uniform particles for biomedical applications. Process combines ink-jet and irradiation/freeze-polymerization techniques to make polymeric microspheres of uniform size in diameters from 100 to 400 micrometer. Microspheres used in chromatography, cell sorting, cell labeling, and manufacture of pharmaceutical materials.

  1. Elimination of mouse tumor cells from neonate spermatogonial cells utilizing cisplatin-entrapped folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles in vitro

    PubMed Central

    Shabani, Ronak; Ashjari, Mohsen; Ashtari, Khadijeh; Izadyar, Fariborz; Behnam, Babak; Khoei, Samideh; Asghari-Jafarabadi, Mohamad; Koruji, Morteza

    2018-01-01

    Background Some male survivors of childhood cancer are suffering from azoospermia. In addition, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are necessary for the improvement of spermatogenesis subsequent to exposure to cytotoxic agents such as cisplatin. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) on mouse malignant cell line (EL4) and SSCs in vitro. Methods SSCs were co-cultured with mouse malignant cell line (EL4) cells and divided into four culture groups: 1) control (cells were co-cultured in the culture medium), 2) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin (10 μg/mL), 3) co-cultured cells were treated with cisplatin-loaded folic acid-conjugated PLGA NPs, and 4) co-cultures were treated with folic acid-conjugated PLGA for 48 hours. The NPs were prepared, characterized, and targeted with folate. In vitro release characteristics, loading efficiency, and scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images were studied. Cancer cells were assayed after treatment using flow cytometry and TUNEL assay. The co-cultures of SSCs and EL4 cells were injected into seminiferous tubules of the testes after treating with cis-diaminedichloroplatinum/PLGA NPs. Results The mean diameter of PLGA NPs ranged between 150 and 250 nm. The number of TUNEL-positive cells increased, and the expression of Bax and caspase-3 were upregulated in EL4 cells in Group 4 compared with Group 2. There was no pathological tumor in testes after transplantation with treated co-cultured cells. Conclusion The PLGA NPs appeared to act as a promising carrier for cisplatin administration, which was consistent with a higher activation of apoptosis than free drug. PMID:29849458

  2. PLGA nanoparticles modified with a BBB-penetrating peptide co-delivering Aβ generation inhibitor and curcumin attenuate memory deficits and neuropathology in Alzheimer's disease mice.

    PubMed

    Huang, Na; Lu, Shuai; Liu, Xiao-Ge; Zhu, Jie; Wang, Yu-Jiong; Liu, Rui-Tian

    2017-10-06

    Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, characterized by the formation of extracellular senile plaques and neuronal loss caused by amyloid β (Aβ) aggregates in the brains of AD patients. Conventional strategies failed to treat AD in clinical trials, partly due to the poor solubility, low bioavailability and ineffectiveness of the tested drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Moreover, AD is a complex, multifactorial neurodegenerative disease; one-target strategies may be insufficient to prevent the processes of AD. Here, we designed novel kind of poly(lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles by loading with Aβ generation inhibitor S1 (PQVGHL peptide) and curcumin to target the detrimental factors in AD development and by conjugating with brain targeting peptide CRT (cyclic CRTIGPSVC peptide), an iron-mimic peptide that targets transferrin receptor (TfR), to improve BBB penetration. The average particle size of drug-loaded PLGA nanoparticles and CRT-conjugated PLGA nanoparticles were 128.6 nm and 139.8 nm, respectively. The results of Y-maze and new object recognition test demonstrated that our PLGA nanoparticles significantly improved the spatial memory and recognition in transgenic AD mice. Moreover, PLGA nanoparticles remarkably decreased the level of Aβ, reactive oxygen species (ROS), TNF-α and IL-6, and enhanced the activities of super oxide dismutase (SOD) and synapse numbers in the AD mouse brains. Compared with other PLGA nanoparticles, CRT peptide modified-PLGA nanoparticles co-delivering S1 and curcumin exhibited most beneficial effect on the treatment of AD mice, suggesting that conjugated CRT peptide, and encapsulated S1 and curcumin exerted their corresponding functions for the treatment.

  3. Microsphere-based scaffolds encapsulating chondroitin sulfate or decellularized cartilage

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Vineet; Tenny, Kevin M; Barragan, Marilyn; Berkland, Cory J; Detamore, Michael S

    2016-01-01

    Extracellular matrix materials such as decellularized cartilage (DCC) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) may be attractive chondrogenic materials for cartilage regeneration. The goal of the current study was to investigate the effects of encapsulation of DCC and CS in homogeneous microsphere-based scaffolds, and to test the hypothesis that encapsulation of these extracellular matrix materials would induce chondrogenesis of rat bone marrow stromal cells. Four different types of homogeneous scaffolds were fabricated from microspheres of poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid): Blank (poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) only; negative control), transforming growth factor-β3 encapsulated (positive control), DCC encapsulated, and CS encapsulated. These scaffolds were then seeded with rat bone marrow stromal cells and cultured for 6 weeks. The DCC and CS encapsulation altered the morphological features of the microspheres, resulting in higher porosities in these groups. Moreover, the mechanical properties of the scaffolds were impacted due to differences in the degree of sintering, with the CS group exhibiting the highest compressive modulus. Biochemical evidence suggested a mitogenic effect of DCC and CS encapsulation on rat bone marrow stromal cells with the matrix synthesis boosted primarily by the inherently present extracellular matrix components. An important finding was that the cell seeded CS and DCC groups at week 6 had up to an order of magnitude higher glycosaminoglycan contents than their acellular counterparts. Gene expression results indicated a suppressive effect of DCC and CS encapsulation on rat bone marrow stromal cell chondrogenesis with differences in gene expression patterns existing between the DCC and CS groups. Overall, DCC and CS were easily included in microsphere-based scaffolds; however, there is a requirement to further refine their concentrations to achieve the differentiation profiles we seek in vitro. PMID:27358376

  4. Development of a cell transducible RhoA inhibitor TAT-C3 transferase and its encapsulation in biocompatible microspheres to promote survival and enhance regeneration of severed neurons.

    PubMed

    Tan, Elaine Y M; Law, Janice W S; Wang, Chi-Hwa; Lee, Alan Y W

    2007-12-01

    through RhoA inhibition. Characterization of TAT-C3 encapsulation in various blends of capped/uncapped PLGA polymer revealed the 30:70 formulation to be optimal in attaining a mild initial burst release of 25%, followed by a subsequent average daily release of 2.3% of encapsulated protein over one month, matching the change in RhoA level in severed brain and spinal cord. Importantly, TAT-C3 released from the microspheres remained active up to the first three weeks of incubation. Enhanced cell entry of TAT-C3 circumvents the need to administer high dose of the protein to site of injury. The encapsulation of TAT-C3 in different blends of capped/uncapped PLGA microspheres allows adjustment of protein release profile to suit the pattern of RhoA expression in injured CNS.

  5. Histological Comparison of Kidney Tissue Following Radioembolization with Yttrium-90 Resin Microspheres and Embolization with Bland Microspheres

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Silva, Suresh de, E-mail: suresh.desilva@unsw.edu.au; Mackie, Simon; Aslan, Peter

    BackgroundIntra-arterial brachytherapy with yttrium-90 ({sup 90}Y) resin microspheres (radioembolization) is a procedure to selectively deliver high-dose radiation to tumors. The purpose of this research was to compare the radioembolic effect of {sup 90}Y-radioembolization versus the embolic effect of bland microspheres in the porcine kidney model.MethodsIn each of six pigs, ~25–33 % of the kidney volume was embolized with {sup 90}Y resin microspheres and an equivalent number of bland microspheres in the contralateral kidney. Kidney volume was estimated visually from contrast-enhanced fluoroscopy imaging. Morphologic and histologic analysis was performed 8–9 weeks after the procedure to assess the locations of the microspheres and extentmore » of tissue necrosis from {sup 90}Y-radioembolization and bland embolization. A semi-quantified evaluation of the non-acute peri-particle and perivascular tissue reaction was conducted. All guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed.ResultsKidneys embolized with {sup 90}Y-radioembolization decreased in mass by 30–70 % versus the contralateral kidney embolized with bland microspheres. These kidneys showed significant necrosis/fibrosis, avascularization, and glomerular atrophy in the immediate vicinity of the {sup 90}Y resin microspheres. By contrast, glomerular changes were not observed, even with clusters of bland microspheres in afferent arterioles. Evidence of a foreign body reaction was recorded in some kidneys with bland microspheres, and subcapsular scarring/infarction only with the highest load (4.96 × 10{sup 6}) of bland microspheres.ConclusionThis study showed that radioembolization with {sup 90}Y resin microspheres produces localized necrosis/fibrosis and loss of kidney mass in a porcine kidney model. This result supports the study of {sup 90}Y resin microspheres for the localized treatment of kidney tumors.« less

  6. Microspheres for the oral delivery of insulin: preparation, evaluation and hypoglycaemic effect in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Huan; Wang, Weimei; Li, Haoran; Peng, Yi; Zhang, Zhiqing

    2018-01-01

    Insulin-loaded microspheres were prepared by alternating deposition film layers that were composed of insulin and poly(vinyl sulfate) potassium on the surface of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) microspheres. The preparation of the insulin-loaded microspheres was optimized by an orthogonal test design, and the relationship between drug loading (DL) and film layers was studied. The particle size, DL and encapsulation efficiency of the obtained insulin-loaded microspheres with 10 films were 5.25 ± 0.15 µm, 111.33 ± 1.15 mg/g and 33.7 ± 0.19%, respectively. Following this, the physical characteristics of the insulin-loaded microspheres were investigated. The results from scanning electron microscopy and a laser particle size analyzer (LPSA) indicated the spherical morphology, rough surface and increasing particle sizes of the insulin-loaded microspheres, which were compared to those of PLA microspheres. An in vitro release study showed that the insulin-loaded microspheres were stable in HCl solution (pH 1.0) and released insulin slowly in phosphate-buffered solution (pH 6.8). Finally, the drug efficacy of the prepared insulin-loaded microspheres via oral administration was evaluated in rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin, and an obvious dose-dependent hypoglycemic effect was observed. This preliminary data could illustrate the prospect of using microspheres for the oral delivery of insulin.

  7. PLGA Nanoparticles and Their Versatile Role in Anticancer Drug Delivery.

    PubMed

    Khan, Iliyas; Gothwal, Avinash; Sharma, Ashok Kumar; Kesharwani, Prashant; Gupta, Lokesh; Iyer, Arun K; Gupta, Umesh

    2016-01-01

    Nanotechnological advancement has become a key standard for the diagnosis and treatment of several complex disorders such as cancer by utilizing the enhanced permeability and retention effect and tumor-specific targeting. Synthesis and designing the formulation of active agents in terms of their efficient delivery is of prime importance for healthcare. The use of nanocarriers has resolved the undesirable characteristics of anticancer drugs such as low solubility and poor permeability in cells. Several types of nanoparticles (NPs) have been designed with the use of various polymers along or devoid of surface engineering for targeting tumor cells. All NPs include polymers in their framework and, of these, polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) is biodegradable and Food and Drug Administration approved for human use. PLGA has been used extensively in the development of NPs for anticancer drug delivery. The extensive use of PLGA NPs is promising for cancer therapy, with higher efficiency and less adverse effects. The present review focused on recent developments regarding PLGA NPs, the methods used for their preparation, their characterization, and their utility in the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents.

  8. Cephradin-plaga microspheres for sustained delivery to cattle.

    PubMed

    Ustariz-Peyret, C; Coudane, J; Vert, M; Kaltsatos, V; Boisramé, B

    1999-01-01

    In the field of controlled drug delivery, most of the reported work is aimed at introducing new systems, or at providing basic information on the critical parameters which affect release profiles in vitro and occasionally in vivo. The situation is totally different when one wants to fulfil the specific requirements imposed by the marketing of a sustained release device to be used in humans or in animals eaten by human beings. The control of the release characteristics is then a difficult challenge. In this work, attempts were made to combine cephradin, a hydrophilic beta-lactam antibiotic, and bioresorbable polymeric matrices of a poly(alpha-hydroxy acid) in the form of microspheres with the aim of delivering the antibiotic to cattle at a dose rate of 4-5 mg/kg/day over a 3-4 days period after i.m. injection. PLAGA aliphatic polyesters were selected because they are already FDA approved as matrices. The solvent evaporation technique using PVA as the emulsion stabilizer was selected because it is efficient and can be extended to an industrial scale. Various experimental conditions were used in order to obtain the highest encapsulation yields compatible with the desired specifications. Decreasing the volume of the aqueous phase and adding a water-miscible organic solvent/non-solvent of cephradin failed. In contrast, microspheres containing up to 30% cephradin were prepared after addition of sodium chloride to the aqueous dispersing phase. The amount of entrapped drug was raised to 40% by decreasing the temperature and the pressure. Preliminary investigations using dogs showed that 20% cephradin microspheres prepared under these conditions extended the presence of cephradin in the blood circulation up to 48 h. Increasing the load led to higher blood concentrations but shorter sustained release. The fact that the microspheres were for cattle limited the volume of the injection and thus the amount of microspheres to be administered. The other limiting factors were

  9. [Preparation of ASODN-protamine-HSA-PLGA nanoparticles and initial evaluation of their nucleus targeting property in vitro].

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yi; Yuan, Li; Yan, Xiao-ling; Gong, Tao; Liu, Jie; Zhang, Zhi-rong; Sun, Xun

    2009-05-01

    To develop a novel non-viral gene delivery system-SODN-Protamine-HSA-PLGA (ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP) and investigate its nucleus targeting potential in vitro. ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP was prepared by mixing the protamine sulfate and HSA. Then the PLGA nanoparticles were prepared using double-emulsion evaporation technique, followed by addition of ASODN to the prepared P/H complex. The morphology of ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP was observed by transmission electron microscopy. The diameter, PDI, and surface charge of ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP were measured by photo correlation spectroscopy (PCS). The encapsulation efficiency of ASODN was determined by double step method. The cytotoxicity of ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP was investigated by MTT assays. The ability to enter the squamouse carcinoma: Hep-2 cell line and its nucleus targeting property were observed by confocal laser scanning microscope. The average diameter, PDI, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency of ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP were 128 nm, 0.234, -23.3 mV, and 78.45%, respectively. ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP could protect the ASODN from the shear force in the ultrasound process during preparation. ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP couldenter Hep-2 cells and have certain level of nucleus targeting property. ASODN-P/H-PLGA-NP can be prepared easily with small particle sizes and low cytotoxicity, which might be employed as a good non-viral vector for applications in ASODN delivery to nucleus.

  10. Biomedical applications of ferulic acid encapsulated electrospun nanofibers.

    PubMed

    Vashisth, Priya; Kumar, Naresh; Sharma, Mohit; Pruthi, Vikas

    2015-12-01

    Ferulic acid is a ubiquitous phytochemical that holds enormous therapeutic potential but has not gained much consideration in biomedical sector due to its less bioavailability, poor aqueous solubility and physiochemical instability. In present investigation, the shortcomings associated with agro-waste derived ferulic acid were addressed by encapsulating it in electrospun nanofibrous matrix of poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)/polyethylene oxide. Fluorescent microscopic analysis revealed that ferulic acid predominantly resides in the core of PLGA/PEO nanofibers. The average diameters of the PLGA/PEO and ferulic acid encapsulated PLGA/PEO nanofibers were recorded as 125 ± 65.5 nm and 150 ± 79.0 nm, respectively. The physiochemical properties of fabricated nanofibers are elucidated by IR, DSC and NMR studies. Free radical scavenging activity of fabricated nanofibers were estimated using di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium (DPPH) assay. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay confirmed the cytotoxicity of ferulic acid encapsulated nanofibers against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells. These ferulic acid encapsulated nanofibers could be potentially explored for therapeutic usage in biomedical sector.

  11. Improvement of Oral Bioavailability of Lopinavir Without Co-administration of Ritonavir Using Microspheres of Thiolated Xyloglucan.

    PubMed

    Madgulkar, Ashwini R; Bhalekar, Mangesh R; Kadam, Ashwini A

    2018-01-01

    Lopinavir is a BCS Class IV drug exhibiting poor bioavailability due to P-gp efflux and limited permeation. The aim of this research was to formulate and characterize microspheres of lopinavir using thiolated xyloglucan (TH-MPs) as carrier to improve its oral bioavailability without co-administration of ritonavir. Thiomeric microspheres were prepared by ionotropic gelation between alginic acid and calcium ions. Interaction studies were performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The thiomeric microspheres were characterized for its entrapment efficiency, T 80 , surface morphology, and mucoadhesion employing in vitro wash off test. The microspheres were optimized by 3 2 factorial design. The optimized thiomeric microsphere formulation revealed 93.12% entrapment efficiency, time for 80% drug release (T 80 ) of 358.1 min, and 88% mucoadhesion after 1 h. The permeation of lopinavir from microspheres was enhanced 3.15 times as determined by ex vivo study using everted chick intestine and increased relative bioavailability over 3.22-fold over combination of lopinavir and ritonavir as determined by in vivo study in rat model.

  12. An Electrochemical DNA Microbiosensor Based on Succinimide-Modified Acrylic Microspheres

    PubMed Central

    Ulianas, Alizar; Heng, Lee Yook; Hanifah, Sharina Abu; Ling, Tan Ling

    2012-01-01

    An electrochemical microbiosensor for DNA has been fabricated based on new acrylic microspheres modified with reactive N-acryloxysuccinimide (NAS) functional groups. Hydrophobic poly(n-butylacrylate-N-acryloxysuccinimide) microspheres were synthesized in an emulsion form with a simple one-step photopolymerization technique. Aminated DNA probe was attached to the succinimde functional group of the acrylic microspheres via covalent bonding. The hybridization of the immobilized DNA probe with the complementary DNA was studied by differential pulse voltametry using anthraquninone-2-sulfonic acid monohydrate sodium salt (AQMS) as the electroactive hybridization label. The influences of many factors such as duration of DNA probe immobilization and hybridization, pH, type of ions, buffer concentrations, ionic strength, operational temperature and non-complementary DNA on the biosensor performance were evaluated. Under optimized conditions, the DNA microbiosensor demonstrated a linear response range to target DNA over a wide concentration range of 1.0 × 10−16 and 1.0 × 10−8 M with a lower limit of detection (LOD) of 9.46 × 10−17 M (R2 = 0.97). This DNA microbiosensor showed good reproducibility with 2.84% RSD (relative standard deviation) (n = 3). Application of the NAS-modified acrylic microspheres in the construction of DNA microbiosensor had improved the overall analytical performance of the resultant DNA microbiosensor when compared with other reported DNA biosensors using other nano-materials for membranes and microspheres as DNA immobilization matrices. PMID:22778594

  13. Delivery of antagomiR204-conjugated gold nanoparticles from PLGA sheets and its implication in promoting osseointegration of titanium implant in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiangwei; Tan, Naiwen; Zhou, Yuchao; Wei, Hongbo; Ren, Shuai; Yu, Fan; Chen, Hui; Jia, Chengming; Yang, Guodong; Song, Yingliang

    2017-01-01

    Impaired osseointegration of the implant remains the big hurdle for dental implant therapy in diabetic patients. In this study, the authors first identified that miR204 was strikingly highly expressed in the bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) of diabetic rats. Forced expression of miR204 repressed the osteogenic potential of BMSCs, while inhibition of miR204 significantly increased the osteogenic capacity. Moreover, the miR204 inhibitor was conjugated with gold nanoparticles (AuNP-antagomiR204) and dispersed them in the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) solution. The AuNP-antagomiR204 containing PLGA solution was applied for coating the surface of titanium implant. Electron microscope revealed that an ultrathin sheet was formed on the surface of the implant, and the AuNPs were evenly dispersed in the coated PLGA sheet. Cellular experiments revealed that these encapsulated AuNP-antagomiR204 were able to be released from the PLGA sheet and uptaken by adherent BMSCs. In vivo animal study further confirmed that the AuNP-antagomiR204 released from PLGA sheet promoted osseointegration, as revealed by microcomputerized tomography (microCT) reconstruction and histological assay. Taken together, this study established that miR204 misexpression accounted for the deficient osseointegation in diabetes mellitus, while PLGA sheets aided the release of AuNP-antagomiR204, which would be a promising strategy for titanium implant surface functionalization toward better osseointegration.

  14. Combined effects of Ag nanoparticles and oxygen plasma treatment on PLGA morphological, chemical, and antibacterial properties.

    PubMed

    Fortunati, Elena; Mattioli, Samantha; Visai, Livia; Imbriani, Marcello; Fierro, Josè Luis G; Kenny, Josè Maria; Armentano, Ilaria

    2013-03-11

    The purpose of this study is to investigate the combined effects of oxygen plasma treatments and silver nanoparticles (Ag) on PLGA in order to modulate the surface antimicrobial properties through tunable bacteria adhesion mechanisms. PLGA nanocomposite films, produced by solvent casting with 1 wt % and 7 wt % of Ag nanoparticles were investigated. The PLGA and PLGA/Ag nanocomposite surfaces were treated with oxygen plasma. Surface properties of PLGA were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), static contact angle (CA), and high resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Antibacterial tests were performed using an Escherichia coli RB (a Gram negative) and Staphylococcus aureus 8325-4 (a Gram positive). The PLGA surface becomes hydrophilic after the oxygen treatment and its roughness increases with the treatment time. The surface treatment and the Ag nanoparticle introduction have a dominant influence on the bacteria adhesion and growth. Oxygen-treated PLGA/Ag systems promote higher reduction of the bacteria viability in comparison to the untreated samples and neat PLGA. The combination of Ag nanoparticles with the oxygen plasma treatment opens new perspectives for the studied biodegradable systems in biomedical applications.

  15. Curcumin Conjugated with PLGA Potentiates Sustainability, Anti-Proliferative Activity and Apoptosis in Human Colon Carcinoma Cells

    PubMed Central

    Waghela, Bhargav N.; Sharma, Anupama; Dhumale, Suhashini; Pandey, Shashibahl M.; Pathak, Chandramani

    2015-01-01

    Curcumin, an ingredient of turmeric, exhibits a variety of biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer and anti-metastatic. It is a highly pleiotropic molecule that inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. Despite its imperative biological activities, chemical instability, photo-instability and poor bioavailability limits its utilization as an effective therapeutic agent. Therefore, enhancing the bioavailability of curcumin may improve its therapeutic index for clinical setting. In the present study, we have conjugated curcumin with a biodegradable polymer Poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) and evaluated its apoptotic potential in human colon carcinoma cells (HCT 116). The results show that curcumin-PLGA conjugate efficiently inhibits cell proliferation and cell survival in human colon carcinoma cells as compared to native curcumin. Additionally, curcumin conjugated with PLGA shows improved cellular uptake and exhibits controlled release at physiological pH as compared to native curcumin. The curcumin-PLGA conjugate efficiently activates the cascade of caspases and promotes intrinsic apoptotic signaling. Thus, the results suggest that conjugation potentiates the sustainability, anti-proliferative and apoptotic activity of curcumin. This approach could be a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic index of cancer therapy. PMID:25692854

  16. Enhancement of Poly(orthoester) Microspheres for DNA Vaccine Delivery by Blending with Poly(ethylenimine)

    PubMed Central

    Nguyen, David N.; Raghavan, Shyam S.; Tashima, Lauren M.; Lin, Elizabeth C.; Fredette, Stephen J.; Langer, Robert S.; Wang, Chun

    2008-01-01

    Poly(ortho ester) (POE) microspheres have been previously shown to possess certain advantages for the in vivo delivery of DNA vaccines. In particular, timing of DNA release from POE microspheres in response to acidic phagosomal pH was shown to be an important factor in determining immunogenicity, which was hypothesized to be linked to the natural progression of antigen presenting cell uptake, transfection, maturation, and antigen presentation. Here we report in vitro characterization of the enhanced the efficacy of POE microspheres by blending poly(ethylenimine) (PEI), a well-characterized cationic transfection agent, into the POE matrix. Blending of a tiny amount of PEI (approximately 0.04 wt%) with POE caused large alterations in POE microsphere properties. PEI provided greater control over the rate of pH-triggered DNA release by doubling the total release time of plasmid DNA and enhanced gene transfection efficiency of the microspheres up to 50-fold without any significant cytotoxicity. Confocal microscopy with labeled PEI and DNA plasmids revealed that PEI caused a surface-localizing distribution of DNA and PEI within the POE microsphere as well as focal co-localization of PEI with DNA. We provide evidence that upon degradation, the microspheres of POE-PEI blends released electrostatic complexes of DNA and PEI, which are responsible for the enhanced gene transfection. Furthermore, blending PEI into the POE microsphere induced 50% to 60% greater phenotypic maturation and activation of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells in vitro, judged by up-regulation of co-stimulatory markers on the cell surface. Physically blending PEI with POE is a simple approach for modulating the properties of biodegradable microspheres in terms of gene transfection efficiency and DNA release kinetics. Combined with the ability to induce maturation of antigen-presenting cells, POE-PEI blended microspheres may be excellent carriers for DNA vaccines. PMID:18400294

  17. Comparison of intracellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of free mTHPC and mTHPC-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in human colon carcinoma cells.

    PubMed

    Löw, Karin; Knobloch, Thomas; Wagner, Sylvia; Wiehe, Arno; Engel, Andrea; Langer, Klaus; von Briesen, Hagen

    2011-06-17

    The second generation photosensitizer mTHPC was approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the palliative treatment of advanced head and neck cancer in October 2001. It is known that mTHPC possesses a significant phototoxicity against a variety of human cancer cells in vitro but also exhibits dark toxicity and can cause adverse effects (especially skin photosensitization). Due to its poor water solubility, the administration of hydrophobic photosensitizer still presents several difficulties. To overcome the administration problems, the use of nanoparticles as drug carrier systems is much investigated. Nanoparticles based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) have been extensively studied as delivery systems into tumours due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. The goal of this study was the comparison of free mTHPC and mTHPC-loaded PLGA nanoparticles concerning cytotoxicity and intracellular accumulation in human colon carcinoma cells (HT29). The nanoparticles delivered the photosensitizer to the colon carcinoma cells and enabled drug release without losing its activity. The cytotoxicity assays showed a time- and concentration-dependent decrease in cell proliferation and viability after illumination. However, first and foremost mTHPC lost its dark toxic effects using the PLGA nanoparticles as a drug carrier system. Therefore, PLGA nanoparticles are a promising drug carrier system for the hydrophobic photosensitizer mTHPC.

  18. Influence of some formulation variables on the optimization of pH-dependent, colon-targeted, sustained-release mesalamine microspheres.

    PubMed

    El-Bary, Ahmed Abd; Aboelwafa, Ahmed A; Al Sharabi, Ibrahim M

    2012-03-01

    The aim of this work was to understand the influence of different formulation variables on the optimization of pH-dependent, colon-targeted, sustained-release mesalamine microspheres prepared by O/O emulsion solvent evaporation method, employing pH-dependent Eudragit S and hydrophobic pH-independent ethylcellulose polymers. Formulation variables studied included concentration of Eudragit S in the internal phase and the ratios between; internal to external phase, drug to Eudragit S and Eudragit S to ethylcellulose to mesalamine. Prepared microspheres were evaluated by carrying out in vitro release studies and determination of particle size, production yield, and encapsulation efficiency. In addition, morphology of microspheres was examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Emulsion solvent evaporation method was found to be sensitive to the studied formulation variables. Particle size and encapsulation efficiency increased by increasing Eudragit S concentration in the internal phase, ratio of internal to external phase, and ratio of Eudragit S to the drug. Employing Eudragit S alone in preparation of the microspheres is only successful in forming acid-resistant microspheres with pulsatile release pattern at high pH. Eudragit S and ethylcellulose blend microspheres were able to control release under acidic condition and to extend drug release at high pH. The stability studies carried out at 40°C/75% RH for 6 months proved the stability of the optimized formulation. From the results of this investigation, microencapsulation of mesalamine in microspheres using blend of Eudragit S and ethylcellulose could constitute a promising approach for site-specific and controlled delivery of drug in colon.

  19. Evaluation of 3D printed PCL/PLGA/β-TCP versus collagen membranes for guided bone regeneration in a beagle implant model.

    PubMed

    Won, J-Y; Park, C-Y; Bae, J-H; Ahn, G; Kim, C; Lim, D-H; Cho, D-W; Yun, W-S; Shim, J-H; Huh, J-B

    2016-10-07

    Here, we compared 3D-printed polycaprolactone/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/β-tricalcium phosphate (PCL/PLGA/β-TCP) membranes with the widely used collagen membranes for guided bone regeneration (GBR) in beagle implant models. For mechanical property comparison in dry and wet conditions and cytocompatibility determination, we analyzed the rate and pattern of cell proliferation of seeded fibroblasts and preosteoblasts using the cell counting kit-8 assay and scanning electron microscopy. Osteogenic differentiation was verified using alizarin red S staining. At 8 weeks following implantation in vivo using beagle dogs, computed tomography and histological analyses were performed after sacrifice. Cell proliferation rates in vitro indicated that early cell attachment was higher in collagen than in PCL/PLGA/β-TCP membranes; however, the difference subsided by day 7. Similar outcomes were found for osteogenic differentiation, with approximately 2.5 times greater staining in collagen than PCL/PLGA/β-TCP, but without significant difference by day 14. In vivo, bone regeneration in the defect area, represented by new bone formation and bone-to-implant contact, paralleled those associated with collagen membranes. However, tensile testing revealed that whereas the PCL/PLGA/β-TCP membrane mechanical properties were conserved in both wet and dry states, the tensile property of collagen was reduced by 99% under wet conditions. Our results demonstrate in vitro and in vivo that PCL/PLGA/β-TCP membranes have similar levels of biocompatibility and bone regeneration as collagen membranes. In particular, considering that GBR is always applied to a wet environment (e.g. blood, saliva), we demonstrated that PCL/PLGA/β-TCP membranes maintained their form more reliably than collagen membranes in a wet setting, confirming their appropriateness as a GBR membrane.

  20. Preparation and in vitro evaluation of xanthan gum facilitated superabsorbent polymeric microspheres.

    PubMed

    Bhattacharya, Shiv Sankar; Mazahir, Farhan; Banerjee, Subham; Verma, Anurag; Ghosh, Amitava

    2013-10-15

    Interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogel microspheres of xanthan gum (XG) based superabsorbent polymer (SAP) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were prepared by water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion crosslinking method for sustained release of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (CIPRO). The microspheres were prepared with various ratios of hydrolyzed SAP to PVA and extent of crosslinking density. The prepared microspheres with loose and rigid surfaces were evidenced by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the IPN formation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study was performed to understand the dispersion nature of drug after encapsulation. The in vitro drug release study was extensively evaluated depending on the process variables in both acidic and alkaline media. All the formulations exhibited satisfactory physicochemical and in vitro release characteristics. Release data indicated a non-Fickian trend of drug release from the formulations. Based on the results, this study suggest that CIPRO loaded IPN microspheres were suitable for sustained release application. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Prolonged analgesic effect of PLGA-encapsulated bee venom on formalin-induced pain in rats.

    PubMed

    Jeong, Injae; Kim, Beom-Soo; Lee, Hyejung; Lee, Kang-Min; Shim, Insop; Kang, Sung-Keel; Yin, Chang-Shick; Hahm, Dae-Hyun

    2009-10-01

    To enhance the medicinal activity of bee venom (BV) acupuncture, bee venom was loaded into biodegradable poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (BV-PLGA-NPs) by a water-in-oil-in-water-emulsion/solvent-evaporation technique. Rat formalin tests were performed after subcutaneous injection of BV-PLGA-NPs to the Zusanli acupuncture point (ST36) at 0.5, 1, 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h before plantar injection of 2% formalin. BV-PLGA-NPs treatment showed comparable analgesic activity to typical BV acupuncture during the late phase, compared with saline-treated controls, and the analgesic effect lasted for 12h. PLGA-encapsulation was also effective in alleviating the edema induced by allergens in bee venom. These results indicate that PLGA-encapsulation provided a more prolonged effect of BV acupuncture treatment, while maintaining a comparable therapeutic effect.

  2. Biocompatible magnetic and molecular dual-targeting polyelectrolyte hybrid hollow microspheres for controlled drug release.

    PubMed

    Du, Pengcheng; Zeng, Jin; Mu, Bin; Liu, Peng

    2013-05-06

    Well-defined biocompatible magnetic and molecular dual-targeting polyelectrolyte hybrid hollow microspheres have been accomplished via the layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique. The hybrid shell was fabricated by the electrostatic interaction between the polyelectrolyte cation, chitosan (CS), and the hybrid anion, citrate modified ferroferric oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4-CA), onto the uniform polystyrene sulfonate microsphere templates. Then the magnetic hybrid core/shell composite particles were modified with a linear, functional poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) monoterminated with a biotargeting molecule (folic acid (FA)). Afterward the dual targeting hybrid hollow microspheres were obtained after etching the templates by dialysis. The dual targeting hybrid hollow microspheres exhibit exciting pH response and stability in high salt-concentration media. Their pH-dependent controlled release of the drug molecule (anticancer drug, doxorubicin (DOX)) was also investigated in different human body fluids. As expected, the cell viability of the HepG2 cells which decreased more rapidly was treated by the FA modified hybrid hollow microspheres rather than the unmodified one in the in vitro study. The dual-targeting hybrid hollow microspheres demonstrate selective killing of the tumor cells. The precise magnetic and molecular targeting properties and pH-dependent controlled release offers promise for cancer treatment.

  3. Long-acting inhalable chitosan-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles containing hydrophobically modified exendin-4 for treating type 2 diabetes

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Changkyu; Choi, Ji Su; Kim, Insoo; Oh, Kyung Taek; Lee, Eun Seong; Park, Eun-Seok; Lee, Kang Choon; Youn, Yu Seok

    2013-01-01

    Inhalable glycol chitosan-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles containing palmitic acid-modified exendin-4 (Pal-Ex4) (chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs) were prepared and characterized. The surface morphology, particle size, and zeta potential of chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs were investigated, and the adsorption and cytotoxicity of chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs were evaluated in human lung epithelial cells (A549). Finally, the lung deposition characteristics and hypoglycemia caused by chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs were evaluated after pulmonary administration in imprinting control region (ICR) and type 2 diabetic db/db mice. Results showed that chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs were spherical, compact and had a diameter of ~700 nm and a positive surface charge of +28.5 mV Chitosan-coated PLGA NPs were adsorbed onto A549 cells much more so than non-coated PLGA NPs. Pal-Ex4 release from chitosan-coated PLGA NPs was delayed by as much as 1.5 days as compared with chitosan-coated Ex4 PLGA NPs. In addition, chitosan-coated PLGA NPs remained in the lungs for ~72 hours after pulmonary administration, whereas most non-coated PLGA NPs were lost at 8 hours after administration. Furthermore, the hypoglycemic efficacy of inhaled chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs was 3.1-fold greater than that of chitosan Ex4 PLGA NPs in db/db mice. The authors believe chitosan Pal-Ex4 PLGA NPs have considerable potential as a long-acting inhalation delivery system for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. PMID:23976850

  4. Development and optimization of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride using 32 full factorial design

    PubMed Central

    Setia, Anupama; Kansal, Sahil; Goyal, Naveen

    2013-01-01

    Background: Microspheres constitute an important part of oral drug delivery system by virtue of their small size and efficient carrier capacity. However, the success of these microspheres is limited due to their short residence time at the site of absorption. Objective: The objective of the present study was to formulate and systematically evaluate in vitro performance of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX), an acid labile drug. Materials and Methods: DLX microspheres were prepared by simple emulsification phase separation technique using chitosan as carrier and glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent. Microspheres prepared were coated with eudragit L-100 using an oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method. Eudragit L-100was used as enteric coating polymer with the aim to release the drug in small intestine The microspheres prepared were characterized by particle size, entrapment efficiency, swelling index (SI), mucoadhesion time, in vitro drug release and surface morphology. A 32 full factorial design was employed to study the effect of independent variables polymer-to-drug ratio (X1) and stirring speed (X2) on dependent variables, particle size, entrapment efficiency, SI, in vitro mucoadhesion and drug release up to 24 h (t24). Results: Microspheres formed were discrete, spherical and free flowing. The microspheres exhibited good mucoadhesive property and also showed high percentage entrapment efficiency. The microspheres were able to sustain the drug release up to 24 h. Conclusion: Thus, the prepared enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres may prove to be a potential controlled release formulation of DLX for oral administration. PMID:24167786

  5. Synthesis and Characterization of Quantum Dot-Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) Acid Nanocomposite Fibers by an Electrospinning Process.

    PubMed

    Ankireddy, Seshadri Reddy; Kim, Jongsung

    2017-04-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) is one of the most successfully developed biodegradable polymers. PLGA is a copolymer of polylactic and glycolic acid. In this work, quantum dot (QD)-loaded PLGA nanofibers were fabricated via a simple one-step electrospinning process. The surface morphology of the fibers was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was shown that the PLGA nanofibers had both smooth and rough surfaces with an average fiber diameter of 150 ± 25 nm and 350 ± 60 nm for the PLGA and QD-loaded PLGA nanofibers, respectively. The needle size, applied voltage, and solvent flow rate in the syringe were maintained at 23 G, 20 kV, and 1.5 mL/h, respectively. The SEM analysis showed that nanofibers with a very thin and uniform size were formed and the InP/ZnS QDs were homogeneously loaded into the PLGA nanofiber matrix. The thermal properties of the PLGA-QD nanofibers were explored by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The surface chemical structure and functionalities were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD).

  6. Development and optimization of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride using 3(2) full factorial design.

    PubMed

    Setia, Anupama; Kansal, Sahil; Goyal, Naveen

    2013-07-01

    Microspheres constitute an important part of oral drug delivery system by virtue of their small size and efficient carrier capacity. However, the success of these microspheres is limited due to their short residence time at the site of absorption. The objective of the present study was to formulate and systematically evaluate in vitro performance of enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres of duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX), an acid labile drug. DLX microspheres were prepared by simple emulsification phase separation technique using chitosan as carrier and glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent. Microspheres prepared were coated with eudragit L-100 using an oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method. Eudragit L-100was used as enteric coating polymer with the aim to release the drug in small intestine The microspheres prepared were characterized by particle size, entrapment efficiency, swelling index (SI), mucoadhesion time, in vitro drug release and surface morphology. A 3(2) full factorial design was employed to study the effect of independent variables polymer-to-drug ratio (X1) and stirring speed (X2) on dependent variables, particle size, entrapment efficiency, SI, in vitro mucoadhesion and drug release up to 24 h (t24). Microspheres formed were discrete, spherical and free flowing. The microspheres exhibited good mucoadhesive property and also showed high percentage entrapment efficiency. The microspheres were able to sustain the drug release up to 24 h. Thus, the prepared enteric coated mucoadhesive microspheres may prove to be a potential controlled release formulation of DLX for oral administration.

  7. Effects of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) on preparation and characteristics of plasmid DNA-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Zhu, L; Xie, S; Dong, Z; Wang, X; Wang, Y; Zhou, W

    2011-09-01

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) was used as a polymeric emulsifier to encapsulate plasmid DNA into hydrogenated castor oil (HCO)-solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) by w/o/w double emulsion and solvent evaporation techniques. The effects of PLGA on the preparation, characteristics and transfection efficiency of DNA-loaded SLN were studied. The results showed that PLGA was essential to form the primary w/o emulsion and the stability of the emulsion was enhanced with the increase of PLGA content. DNA-loaded SLN were spherical with smooth surfaces. The SLN had a negative charge in weak acid and alkaline environment but acquired a positive charge in acidic pH and the cationisation capacity of the SLN increased with the increase of PLGA/HCO ratio. Agarose gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the majority of the DNA maintained its structural integrity after preparation and being extracted or released from DNA-loaded SLN. When PLGA/HCO ratio increased from 5 to 15%, the encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity and transfection efficiency of the nanoparticles increased significantly, whereas the changes of particle size and polydispersity index were insignificant. Cytotoxicity study in cell culture demonstrated that the SLN was not toxic.

  8. Doxorubicin-loaded micelles based on multiarm star-shaped PLGA-PEG block copolymers: influence of arm numbers on drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Ma, Guilei; Zhang, Chao; Zhang, Linhua; Sun, Hongfan; Song, Cunxian; Wang, Chun; Kong, Deling

    2016-01-01

    Star-shaped block copolymers based on poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) (st-PLGA-PEG) were synthesized with structural variation on arm numbers in order to investigate the relationship between the arm numbers of st-PLGA-PEG copolymers and their micelle properties. st-PLGA-PEG copolymers with arm numbers 3, 4 and 6 were synthesized by using different cores such as trimethylolpropane, pentaerythritol and dipentaerythritol, and were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and gel permeation chromatography. The critical micelle concentration decreased with increasing arm numbers in st-PLGA-PEG copolymers. The doxorubicin-loaded st-PLGA-PEG micelles were prepared by a modified nanoprecipitation method. Micellar properties such as particle size, drug loading content and in vitro drug release behavior were investigated as a function of the number of arms and compared with each other. The doxorubicin-loaded 4-arm PLGA-PEG micelles were found to have the highest cellular uptake efficiency and cytotoxicity compared with 3-arm PLGA-PEG micelles and 6-arm PLGA-PEG micelles. The results suggest that structural tailoring of arm numbers from st-PLGA-PEG copolymers could provide a new strategy for designing drug carriers of high efficiency. Structural tailoring of arm numbers from star shaped-PLGA-PEG copolymers (3-arm/4-arm/6-arm-PLGA-PEG) could provide a new strategy for designing drug carriers of high efficiency.

  9. Customizing poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) particles for biomedical applications.

    PubMed

    Swider, Edyta; Koshkina, Olga; Tel, Jurjen; Cruz, Luis J; de Vries, I Jolanda M; Srinivas, Mangala

    2018-04-11

    Nano- and microparticles have increasingly widespread applications in nanomedicine, ranging from drug delivery to imaging. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles are the most widely-applied type of particles due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. Here, we discuss the preparation of PLGA particles, and various modifications to tailor particles for applications in biological systems. We highlight new preparation approaches, including microfluidics and PRINT method, and modifications of PLGA particles resulting in novel or responsive properties, such as Janus or upconversion particles. Finally, we describe how the preparation methods can- and should-be adapted to tailor the properties of particles for the desired biomedical application. Our aim is to enable researchers who work with PLGA particles to better appreciate the effects of the selected preparation procedure on the final properties of the particles and its biological implications. Nanoparticles are increasingly important in the field of biomedicine. Particles made of polymers are in the spotlight, due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, versatility. In this review, we aim to discuss the range of formulation techniques, manipulations, and applications of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles, to enable a researcher to effectively select or design the optimal particles for their application. We describe the various techniques of PLGA particle synthesis and their impact on possible applications. We focus on recent developments in the field of PLGA particles, and new synthesis techniques that have emerged over the past years. Overall, we show how the chemistry of PLGA particles can be adapted to solve pressing biological needs. Copyright © 2018 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Flower-like NiCo2S4 Hollow Sub-microspheres with Mesoporous Nanoshells Support Pd Nanoparticles for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalysis in Both Acidic and Alkaline Conditions.

    PubMed

    Sheng, Guoqing; Chen, Jiahui; Li, Yunming; Ye, Huangqing; Hu, Zhixiong; Fu, Xian-Zhu; Sun, Rong; Huang, Weixin; Wong, Ching-Ping

    2018-06-14

    Flower-like NiCo2S4 hollow sub-microspheres are synthesized through Cu2O templates to support Pd nanoparticles as high-efficiency catalysts for HER. The diameter and shells size of NiCo2S4 hollow sub-microspheres are about 400 nm and 16 nm, respectively. In addition, the surface of shells is constructed by petal-like nanosheets. About 3 nm Pd particles uniformly incorporate with the flower-like NiCo2S4 hollow sub-microsphere to form NiCo2S4/Pd heterostructure. The NiCo2S4/Pd catalysts exhibit significantly lower overpotential of only 87 mV and 83 mV at 10 mA/cm2 for HER in both acidic and alkaline conditions, respectively, relative to NiCo2S4 (247 mV, 226 mV) and Pd (175 mV, 385mV) catalysts. Besides, the NiCo2S4/Pd catalysts also exhibit excellent stability of HER in these two conditions. The superior HER performance of NiCo2S4/Pd might be resulted from the unique architecture of metal nanoparticles anchored on the bimetallic sulfides flower-like hollow sub-microspheres which could provide high surface area, lots of active sites, strong synergetic effect and stable structure.

  11. Photoprotective efficiency of PLGA-curcumin nanoparticles versus curcumin through the involvement of ERK/AKT pathway under ambient UV-R exposure in HaCaT cell line.

    PubMed

    Chopra, Deepti; Ray, Lipika; Dwivedi, Ashish; Tiwari, Shashi Kant; Singh, Jyoti; Singh, Krishna P; Kushwaha, Hari Narayan; Jahan, Sadaf; Pandey, Ankita; Gupta, Shailendra K; Chaturvedi, Rajnish Kumar; Pant, Aditya Bhushan; Ray, Ratan Singh; Gupta, Kailash Chand

    2016-04-01

    Curcumin (Cur) has been demonstrated to have wide pharmacological window including anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, phototoxicity under sunlight exposure and poor biological availability limits its applicability. We have synthesized biodegradable and non-toxic polymer-poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) encapsulated formulation of curcumin (PLGA-Cur-NPs) of 150 nm size range. Photochemically free curcumin generates ROS, lipid peroxidation and induces significant UVA and UVB mediated impaired mitochondrial functions leading to apoptosis/necrosis and cell injury in two different origin cell lines viz., mouse fibroblasts-NIH-3T3 and human keratinocytes-HaCaT as compared to PLGA-Cur-NPs. Molecular docking studies suggested that intact curcumin from nanoparticles, bind with BAX in BIM SAHB site and attenuate it to undergo apoptosis while upregulating anti-apoptotic genes like BCL2. Real time studies and western blot analysis with specific phosphorylation inhibitor of ERK1 and AKT1/2/3 confirm the involvement of ERK/AKT signaling molecules to trigger the survival cascade in case of PLGA-Cur-NPs. Our finding demonstrates that low level sustained release of curcumin from PLGA-Cur-NPs could be a promising way to protect the adverse biological interactions of photo-degradation products of curcumin upon the exposure of UVA and UVB. Hence, the applicability of PLGA-Cur-NPs could be suggested as prolonged radical scavenging ingredient in curcumin containing products. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Memantine loaded PLGA PEGylated nanoparticles for Alzheimer's disease: in vitro and in vivo characterization.

    PubMed

    Sánchez-López, Elena; Ettcheto, Miren; Egea, Maria Antonia; Espina, Marta; Cano, Amanda; Calpena, Ana Cristina; Camins, Antoni; Carmona, Nuria; Silva, Amélia M; Souto, Eliana B; García, Maria Luisa

    2018-03-27

    Memantine, drug approved for moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease, has not shown to be fully effective. In order to solve this issue, polylactic-co-glycolic (PLGA) nanoparticles could be a suitable solution to increase drug's action on the target site as well as decrease adverse effects. For these reason, Memantine was loaded in biodegradable PLGA nanoparticles, produced by double emulsion method and surface-coated with polyethylene glycol. MEM-PEG-PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) were aimed to target the blood-brain barrier (BBB) upon oral administration for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The production parameters were optimized by design of experiments. MEM-PEG-PLGA NPs showed a mean particle size below 200 nm (152.6 ± 0.5 nm), monomodal size distribution (polydispersity index, PI < 0.1) and negative surface charge (- 22.4 mV). Physicochemical characterization of NPs confirmed that the crystalline drug was dispersed inside the PLGA matrix. MEM-PEG-PLGA NPs were found to be non-cytotoxic on brain cell lines (bEnd.3 and astrocytes). Memantine followed a slower release profile from the NPs against the free drug solution, allowing to reduce drug administration frequency in vivo. Nanoparticles were able to cross BBB both in vitro and in vivo. Behavioral tests carried out on transgenic APPswe/PS1dE9 mice demonstrated to enhance the benefit of decreasing memory impairment when using MEM-PEG-PLGA NPs in comparison to the free drug solution. Histological studies confirmed that MEM-PEG-PLGA NPs reduced β-amyloid plaques and the associated inflammation characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. Memantine NPs were suitable for Alzheimer's disease and more effective than the free drug.

  13. Microporous silk fibroin scaffolds embedding PLGA microparticles for controlled growth factor delivery in tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Wenk, Esther; Meinel, Anne J; Wildy, Sarah; Merkle, Hans P; Meinel, Lorenz

    2009-05-01

    The development of prototype scaffolds for either direct implantation or tissue engineering purposes and featuring spatiotemporal control of growth factor release is highly desirable. Silk fibroin (SF) scaffolds with interconnective pores, carrying embedded microparticles that were loaded with insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), were prepared by a porogen leaching protocol. Treatments with methanol or water vapor induced water insolubility of SF based on an increase in beta-sheet content as analyzed by FTIR. Pore interconnectivity was demonstrated by SEM. Porosities were in the range of 70-90%, depending on the treatment applied, and were better preserved when methanol or water vapor treatments were prior to porogen leaching. IGF-I was encapsulated into two different types of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) microparticles (PLGA MP) using uncapped PLGA (50:50) with molecular weights of either 14 or 35 kDa to control IGF-I release kinetics from the SF scaffold. Embedded PLGA MP were located in the walls or intersections of the SF scaffold. Embedment of the PLGA MP into the scaffolds led to more sustained release rates as compared to the free PLGA MP, whereas the hydrolytic degradation of the two PLGA MP types was not affected. The PLGA types used had distinct effects on IGF-I release kinetics. Particularly the supernatants of the lower molecular weight PLGA formulations turned out to release bioactive IGF-I. Our studies justify future investigations of the developed constructs for tissue engineering applications.

  14. Onion-like microspheres with tricomponent from gelable triblock copolymers.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ke; Gao, Lei; Chen, Yongming; Yang, Zhenzhong

    2010-06-01

    Onion-like functional microspheres with three alternate layers were obtained by aerosol-assisted self-assembly of a functional block copolymer, poly(3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate)-block-polystyrene-block-poly(2-vinylpyridine) (PTEPM-b-PS-b-P2VP). Through self-gelation reaction occurred in the PTEPM layers, organic/inorganic hybrid functional spheres with highly ordered concentric curved lamellar structure were prepared. Using these hybrid onion-like microspheres as templates, gold ions were entrapped into the P2VP layers and then gold nanoparticles located in each P2VP layers were formed by a reduction. By dispersing in acidic water, the onion-like polymeric spheres were broken and, as a result, sandwich-like nanoplates with curved morphology were obtained. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. [Design and biological evaluation of poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) mesh/collagen-chitosan hybrid scaffold (CCS) as a dermal substitute].

    PubMed

    Wang, Xin-Gang; You, Chuan-Gang; Sun, Hua-Feng; Hu, Xin-Lei; Han, Chun-Mao; Zhang, Li-Ping; Zheng, Yu-Rong; Li, Qi-Yin

    2011-02-01

    To design and construct a kind of dermal regeneration template with mesh, and to preliminarily evaluate its biological characteristics. PLGA mesh was integrated into CCS with freeze-drying method for constructing PLGA mesh/CCS composite (PCCS). The micromorphologies and mechanical properties among PLGA mesh, CCS, and PCCS were compared. PCCS and CCS was respectively implanted into subcutaneous tissue of SD rats (PCCS and CCS groups, 9 rats in each group). The tissue samples were collected at post operation week (POW) 1, 2, and 4 for histopathological and immunohistochemical observation. Protein levels of CD68, MPO, IL-1beta, IL-10 were examined by Western blot, with expression of gray value. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance and t test. Three-dimensional porous structure of PCCS was similar to that of CCS. Mechanical property of PLGA mesh and PCCS was respectively (3.07 +/- 0.10), (3.26 +/- 0.15) MPa, and they were higher than that of CCS [(0.42 +/- 0.21) MPa, F = 592.3, P < 0.0001)]. The scaffolds were filled with newly formed tissue in PCCS group at POW 2, while those in CCS group were observed at POW 4. A large accumulation of macrophages was observed in both groups, especially at POW 2, and more macrophage infiltration was observed in CCS group. The protein level of IL-10 in PCCS group at POW 2 was obviously higher than that in CCS group, while the protein levels of CD68, MPO, IL-1beta were significantly decreased as compared with those in CCS group (with t value from -4.06 to 2.89, P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). PCCS has excellent mechanical property with appropriate three-dimensional porous structure. Meanwhile, it can rapidly induce formation of new tissue and vascularization, and it has a prospect of serving as a dermal substitute.

  16. Optimization of encapsulation of a synthetic long peptide in PLGA nanoparticles: low-burst release is crucial for efficient CD8(+) T cell activation.

    PubMed

    Silva, A L; Rosalia, R A; Sazak, A; Carstens, M G; Ossendorp, F; Oostendorp, J; Jiskoot, W

    2013-04-01

    Overlapping synthetic long peptides (SLPs) hold great promise for immunotherapy of cancer. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) are being developed as delivery systems to improve the potency of peptide-based therapeutic cancer vaccines. Our aim was to optimize PLGA NP for SLP delivery with respect to encapsulation and release, using OVA24, a 24-residue long synthetic antigenic peptide covering a CTL epitope of ovalbumin (SIINFEKL), as a model antigen. Peptide-loaded PLGA NPs were prepared by a double emulsion/solvent evaporation technique. Using standard conditions (acidic inner aqueous phase), we observed that either encapsulation was very low (1-30%), or burst release extremely high (>70%) upon resuspension of NP in physiological buffers. By adjusting formulation and process parameters, we uncovered that the pH of the first emulsion was critical to efficient encapsulation and controlled release. In particular, an alkaline inner aqueous phase resulted in circa 330 nm sized NP with approximately 40% encapsulation efficiency and low (<10%) burst release. These NP showed enhanced MHC class I restricted T cell activation in vitro when compared to high-burst releasing NP and soluble OVA24, proving that efficient entrapment of the antigen is crucial to induce a potent cellular immune response. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Hydroxyapatite fiber reinforced poly(alpha-hydroxy ester) foams for bone regeneration

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Thomson, R. C.; Yaszemski, M. J.; Powers, J. M.; Mikos, A. G.; McIntire, L. V. (Principal Investigator)

    1998-01-01

    A process has been developed to manufacture biodegradable composite foams of poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and hydroxyapatite short fibers for use in bone regeneration. The processing technique allows the manufacture of three-dimensional foam scaffolds and involves the formation of a composite material consisting of a porogen material (either gelatin microspheres or salt particles) and hydroxyapatite short fibers embedded in a PLGA matrix. After the porogen is leached out, an open-cell composite foam remains which has a pore size and morphology defined by the porogen. By changing the weight fraction of the leachable component it was possible to produce composite foams with controlled porosities ranging from 0.47 +/- 0.02 to 0.85 +/- 0.01 (n = 3). Up to a polymer:fiber ratio of 7:6, short hydroxyapatite fibers served to reinforce low-porosity PLGA foams manufactured using gelatin microspheres as a porogen. Foams with a compressive yield strength up to 2.82 +/- 0.63 MPa (n = 3) and a porosity of 0.47 +/- 0.02 (n = 3) were manufactured using a polymer:fiber weight ratio of 7:6. In contrast, high-porosity composite foams (up to 0.81 +/- 0.02, n = 3) suitable for cell seeding were not reinforced by the introduction of increasing quantities of hydroxyapatite short fibers. We were therefore able to manufacture high-porosity foams which may be seeded with cells but which have minimal compressive yield strength, or low porosity foams with enhanced osteoconductivity and compressive yield strength.

  18. In vivo imaging of the morphology and changes in pH along the gastrointestinal tract of Japanese medaka by photonic band-gap hydrogel microspheres.

    PubMed

    Du, Xuemin; Lei, Ngai-Yu; Hu, Peng; Lei, Zhang; Ong, Daniel Hock-Chun; Ge, Xuewu; Zhang, Zhicheng; Lam, Michael Hon-Wah

    2013-07-17

    Colloidal crystalline microspheres with photonic band-gap properties responsive to media pH have been developed for in vivo imaging purposes. These colloidal crystalline microspheres were constructed from monodispersed core-shell nano-size particles with poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) (PS-co-PAA) cores and poly(acrylic acid-co-N-isopropylacrylamide) (PAA-co-PNIPAM) hydrogel shells cross-linked by N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide. A significant shift in the photonic band-gap properties of these colloidal crystalline microspheres was observed in the pH range of 4-5. This was caused by the discontinuous volume phase transition of the hydrogel coating, due to the protonation/deprotonation of its acrylic acid moieties, on the core-shell nano-sized particles within the microspheres. The in vivo imaging capability of these pH-responsive photonic microspheres was demonstrated on a test organism - Japanese medaka, Oryzia latipes - in which the morphology and change in pH along their gastrointestinal (GI) tracts were revealed under an ordinary optical microscope. This work illustrates the potential of stimuli-responsive photonic band-gap materials in tissue-/organ-level in vivo bio-imaging. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. PLGA nanoparticles containing various anticancer agents and tumour delivery by EPR effect.

    PubMed

    Acharya, Sarbari; Sahoo, Sanjeeb K

    2011-03-18

    As mortality due to cancer continues to rise, advances in nanotechnology have significantly become an effective approach for achieving efficient drug targeting to tumour tissues by circumventing all the shortcomings of conventional chemotherapy. During the past decade, the importance of polymeric drug-delivery systems in oncology has grown exponentially. In this context, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a widely used polymer for fabricating 'nanoparticles' because of biocompatibility, long-standing track record in biomedical applications and well-documented utility for sustained drug release, and hence has been the centre of focus for developing drug-loaded nanoparticles for cancer therapy. Such PLGA nanoparticles have also been used to develop proteins and peptides for nanomedicine, and nanovaccines, as well as a nanoparticle-based drug- and gene-delivery system for cancer therapy, and nanoantigens and growth factors. These drug-loaded nanoparticles extravasate through the tumour vasculature, delivering their payload into the cells by the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, thereby increasing their therapeutic effect. Ongoing research about drug-loaded nanoparticles and their delivery by the EPR effect to the tumour tissues has been elucidated in this review with clarity. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Microspheres and their methods of preparation

    DOEpatents

    Bose, Anima B; Yang, Junbing

    2015-03-24

    Carbon microspheres are doped with boron to enhance the electrical and physical properties of the microspheres. The boron-doped carbon microspheres are formed by a CVD process in which a catalyst, carbon source and boron source are evaporated, heated and deposited onto an inert substrate.

  1. Targeted delivery of 5-fluorouracil to HT-29 cells using high efficient folic acid-conjugated nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yichao; Li, Puwang; Chen, Lijue; Gao, Weimin; Zeng, Fanbo; Kong, Ling Xue

    2015-02-01

    The incorporation of a high percentage of targeting molecules into drug delivery system is one of the important methods for improving efficacy of targeting therapeutic drugs to cancer cells. PLGA-based drug delivery carriers with folic acid (FA) as targeting molecule have a low targeting efficiency due to a low FA conjugation ratio. In this work, we fabricated a FA-conjugated PLGA system using a crosslinker 1, 3-diaminopropane and have achieved a high conjugation ratio of 46.7% (mol/mol). The as-prepared PLGA-based biomaterial was used to encapsulate therapeutic drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) into nanoparticles. In the in vitro experiments, an IC₅₀ of 5.69 µg/mL has been achieved for 5-FU loaded PLGA-1, 3-diaminopropane-folic acid nanoparticles on HT-29 cancer cells and is significantly lower than that of 5-FU and 5-FU loaded PLGA nanoparticles which only have an IC₅₀ of 22.9 and 14.17 µg/mL, respectively. The fluorescent microscopy images showed that nanoparticles with FA are largely taken up by HT-29 cancer cells and the targeting nanoparticles have more affinity to cancer cells than the pure drugs and untreated nanoparticles. Therefore, the 1, 3-diaminopropane can facilitate the conjugation of FA to PLGA to form a novel polymer and 5-FU loaded PLGA-1, 3-diaminopropane-folic acid nanoparticles can be a highly efficient system for specific delivery of drugs to cancer cells.

  2. Repair of diaphyseal bone defects with calcitriol-loaded PLGA scaffolds and marrow stromal cells.

    PubMed

    Yoon, Sun Jung; Park, Ki Suk; Kim, Moon Suk; Rhee, John M; Khang, Gilson; Lee, Hai Bang

    2007-05-01

    Calcitriol (1,25(OH)2D3)-loaded porous poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) scaffolds prepared by solvent casting/salt leaching method were used to repair a 1.5 cm diaphyseal segmental bone defect as a fully absorbable osteogenic biomaterial. The in vitro release of sulforhodamine B (SRB) from PLGA scaffold was measured using spectrophotometer, considering SRB as a model drug. The SRB released from SRB-incorporated PLGA scaffold during 3 months was with relatively low initial burst. The calcitriol-loaded PLGA scaffolds with or without marrow stromal cells (MSCs) were implanted in a critical-sized intercalated bone defect in rabbit femur. Defects were assessed by radiographs until 9 weeks. The bony union of the defect was observed only in the calcitriol-loaded groups. RT-PCR results indicated that MSCs, which were seeded into calcitriol-loaded scaffold, expressed an increased level of alkaline phosphatase, osteonectin, and type I collagen mRNA at day 10. After 2 and 4 weeks, the implanted scaffolds were evaluated by histology. New osteoid matrix and direct calcium deposits were more evident in calcitriol/PLGA/MSC group. Three-dimensional computed tomography and frontal tomographic images of repaired femur showed that normal femur anatomy had been restored with cortical bone with no implanted PLGA remnants at 20 weeks. It can be concluded that the porous calcitriol-loaded PLGA scaffold combined with MSCs may be a novel method for repairing the large loaded bone defect.

  3. The regulation of focal adhesion complex formation and salivary gland epithelial cell organization by nanofibrous PLGA scaffolds

    PubMed Central

    Sequeira, Sharon J.; Soscia, David A.; Oztan, Basak; Mosier, Aaron P.; Jean-Gilles, Riffard; Gadre, Anand; Cady, Nathaniel C.; Yener, Bülent; Castracane, James; Larsen, Melinda

    2012-01-01

    Nanofiber scaffolds have been useful for engineering tissues derived from mesenchymal cells, but few studies have investigated their applicability for epithelial cell-derived tissues. In this study, we generated nanofiber (250 nm) or microfiber (1200 nm) scaffolds via electrospinning from the polymer, poly-L-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). Cell-scaffold contacts were visualized using fluorescent immunocytochemistry and laser scanning confocal microscopy. Focal adhesion (FA) proteins, such as phosphorylated FAK (Tyr397), paxillin (Tyr118), talin and vinculin were localized to FA complexes in adult cells grown on planar surfaces but were reduced and diffusely localized in cells grown on nanofiber surfaces, similar to the pattern observed in adult mouse salivary gland tissues. Significant differences in epithelial cell morphology and cell clustering were also observed and quantified, using image segmentation and computational cell-graph analyses. No statistically significant differences in scaffold stiffness between planar PLGA film controls compared to nanofibers scaffolds were detected using nanoindentation with atomic force microscopy, indicating that scaffold topography rather than mechanical properties accounts for changes in cell attachments and cell structure. Finally, PLGA nanofiber scaffolds could support the spontaneous self-organization and branching of dissociated embryonic salivary gland cells. Nanofiber scaffolds may therefore have applicability in the future for engineering an artificial salivary gland. PMID:22285464

  4. Osteointegration of PLGA implants with nanostructured or microsized β-TCP particles in a minipig model.

    PubMed

    Kulkova, Julia; Moritz, Niko; Suokas, Esa O; Strandberg, Niko; Leino, Kari A; Laitio, Timo T; Aro, Hannu T

    2014-12-01

    Bioresorbable suture anchors and interference screws have certain benefits over equivalent titanium-alloy implants. However, there is a need for compositional improvement of currently used bioresorbable implants. We hypothesized that implants made of poly(l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) compounded with nanostructured particles of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) would induce stronger osteointegration than implants made of PLGA compounded with microsized β-TCP particles. The experimental nanostructured self-reinforced PLGA (85L:15G)/β-TCP composite was made by high-energy ball-milling. Self-reinforced microsized PLGA (95L:5G)/β-TCP composite was prepared by melt-compounding. The composites were characterized by gas chromatography, Ubbelohde viscometry, scanning electron microscopy, laser diffractometry, and standard mechanical tests. Four groups of implants were prepared for the controlled laboratory study employing a minipig animal model. Implants in the first two groups were prepared from nanostructured and microsized PLGA/β-TCP composites respectively. Microroughened titanium-alloy (Ti6Al4V) implants served as positive intra-animal control, and pure PLGA implants as negative control. Cone-shaped implants were inserted in a random order unilaterally in the anterior cortex of the femoral shaft. Eight weeks after surgery, the mechanical strength of osteointegration of the implants was measured by a push-out test. The quality of new bone surrounding the implant was assessed by microcomputed tomography and histology. Implants made of nanostructured PLGA/β-TCP composite did not show improved mechanical osteointegration compared with the implants made of microsized PLGA/β-TCP composite. In the intra-animal comparison, the push-out force of two PLGA/β-TCP composites was 35-60% of that obtained with Ti6Al4V implants. The implant materials did not result in distinct differences in quality of new bone surrounding the implant. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All

  5. Nano-functionalization of protein microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yoon, Sungkwon; Nichols, William T.

    2014-08-01

    Protein microspheres are promising building blocks for the assembly of complex functional materials. Here we demonstrate a set of three techniques that add functionality to the surface of protein microspheres. In the first technique, a positive surface charge on the protein spheres is deposited by electrostatic adsorption. Negatively charged silica and gold nanoparticle colloids can then electrostatically bind reversibly to the microsphere surface. In the second technique, nanoparticles are covalently anchored to the protein shell using a simple one-pot process. The strong covalent bond between sulfur groups in cysteine in the protein shell irreversibly binds to the gold nanoparticles. In the third technique, surface morphology of the protein microsphere is tuned through hydrodynamic instability at the water-oil interface. This is accomplished through the degree of solubility of the oil phase in water. Taken together these three techniques form a platform to create nano-functionalized protein microspheres, which can then be used as building blocks for the assembly of more complex macroscopic materials.

  6. Metal containing polymeric functional microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yen, Shiao-Ping S. (Inventor); Rembaum, Alan (Inventor); Molday, Robert S. (Inventor)

    1979-01-01

    Polymeric functional microspheres containing metal or metal compounds are formed by addition polymerization of a covalently bondable olefinic monomer such as hydroxyethylmethacrylate in the presence of finely divided metal or metal oxide particles, such as iron, gold, platinum or magnetite, which are embedded in the resulting microspheres. The microspheres can be covalently bonded to chemotherapeutic agents, antibodies, or other proteins providing a means for labeling or separating labeled cells. Labeled cells or microspheres can be concentrated at a specific body location such as in the vicinity of a malignant tumor by applying a magnetic field to the location and then introducing the magnetically attractable microspheres or cells into the circulatory system of the subject. Labeled cells can be separated from a cell mixture by applying a predetermined magnetic field to a tube in which the mixture is flowing. After collection of the labeled cells, the magnetic field is discontinued and the labeled sub-cell population recovered.

  7. Single oral dose of cannabinoid derivate loaded PLGA nanocarriers relieves neuropathic pain for eleven days.

    PubMed

    Berrocoso, Esther; Rey-Brea, Raquel; Fernández-Arévalo, Mercedes; Micó, Juan Antonio; Martín-Banderas, Lucía

    2017-11-01

    Neuropathic pain, resistant to opiates and other drugs, is a chronic/persistent state with a complex treatment and often poor efficacy. In this scenario, cannabinoids are increasingly regarded as a genuine alternative. In this paper, and in an experimental animal model of neuropathic pain, we studied the efficacy of three kinds of PLGA nanoparticles containing synthetic cannabinoid CB13: (i) plain nanoparticles (PLGA); (ii) particles coated with PEG chains (PLGA+PEG) and (iii) particles possessing hydrophilic surfaces obtained by covalently binding PEG chains (PLGA-PEG). The optimized formulation, CB13-PLGA-PEG, showed high drug loading (13%) and small size (<300nm) with a narrow distribution and controlled surface properties (near-neutral zeta potential and stable PEG corona). Animal nociceptive behavioral studies were conducted by paw pressure and acetone tests. Versus the free CB13, CB13-PLGA-PEG nanoparticles showed a very noticeable analgesic efficacy with the longest sustained pain-relieving effect, lasting up to eleven days after one oral dose. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Effect of recombinant galectin-1 on the growth of immortal rat chondrocyte on chitosan-coated PLGA scaffold.

    PubMed

    Chen, Shiang-Jiuun; Lin, Chien-Chung; Tuan, Wei-Cheh; Tseng, Ching-Shiow; Huang, Rong-Nan

    2010-06-15

    The effect of galectin-1 (GAL1) on the growth of immortal rat chondrocyte (IRC) on chitosan-modified PLGA scaffold is investigated. The experimental results showed that water absorption ratio of chitosan-modified PLGA scaffold was 70% higher than that of PLGA alone after immersion in ddH(2)O for 2 weeks, indicating that chitosan-modification significantly enhances the hydrophilicity of PLGA. The experimental results also showed that GALl efficiently and spontaneously coats the chitosan-PLGA scaffold surface to promote adhesion and growth of immortal rat chondrocyte (IRC). To investigate the effect of endogenous GAL1, the full-length GAL1 cDNAs were cloned and constructed into pcDNA3.1 vectors to generate a plasmid expressed in IRC (IRC-GAL1). The results showed that IRC-GAL1 growth was significantly higher than that of IRC on chitosan-PLGA scaffold. The GAL1-potentiated IRC growth on chitosan-PLGA scaffold was dose-dependently inhibited by TDG (specific inhibitor of GAL1 binding). These results strongly suggest that GAL1 is critical for enhancing IRC cell adhesion and growth on chitosan-PLGA scaffold. Moreover, GAL1-coating or expression tends to promote IRC cell-cell aggregation on chitosan-PLGA scaffold and significantly enhances IRC migration. These results suggest that GAL1 probably could induce tissue differentiation and facilitates cartilage reconstruction. In conclusion, the experimental results suggest that both GAL1 and chitosan are important for enhancing IRC cell adhesion and growth on PLGA scaffold, and GAL1 is a potential biomaterial for tissue engineering. (c) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. From honeycomb- to microsphere-patterned surfaces of poly(lactic acid) and a starch-poly(lactic acid) blend via the breath figure method.

    PubMed

    Duarte, Ana Rita C; Maniglio, Devid; Sousa, Nuno; Mano, João F; Reis, Rui L; Migliaresi, Claudio

    2017-01-26

    This study investigated the preparation of ordered patterned surfaces and/or microspheres from a natural-based polymer, using the breath figure and reverse breath figure methods. Poly(D,L-lactic acid) and starch poly(lactic acid) solutions were precipitated in different conditions - namely, polymer concentration, vapor atmosphere temperature and substrate - to evaluate the effect of these conditions on the morphology of the precipitates obtained. The possibility of fine-tuning the properties of the final patterns simply by changing the vapor atmosphere was also demonstrated here using a range of compositions of the vapor phase. Porous films or discrete particles are formed when the differences in surface tension determine the ability of polymer solution to surround water droplets or methanol to surround polymer droplets, respectively. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed applying a simple standard protocol to evaluate the possibility to use these materials in biomedical applications. Moreover, fluorescent microscopy images showed a good interaction of cells with the material, which were able to adhere on the patterned surfaces after 24 hours in culture. The development of patterned surfaces using the breath figure method was tested in this work for the preparation of both poly(lactic acid) and a blend containing starch and poly(lactic acid). The potential of these films to be used in the biomedical area was confirmed by a preliminary cytotoxicity test and by morphological observation of cell adhesion.

  10. Hydroxyapatite-armored poly(ε-caprolactone) microspheres and hydroxyapatite microcapsules fabricated via a Pickering emulsion route.

    PubMed

    Fujii, Syuji; Okada, Masahiro; Nishimura, Taiki; Maeda, Hayata; Sugimoto, Tatsuya; Hamasaki, Hiroyuki; Furuzono, Tsutomu; Nakamura, Yoshinobu

    2012-05-15

    Hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticle-armored poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) microspheres were fabricated via a "Pickering-type" emulsion solvent evaporation method in the absence of any molecular surfactants. It was clarified that the interaction between carbonyl/carboxylic acid groups of PCL and the HAp nanoparticles at an oil-water interface played a crucial role in the preparation of the stable Pickering-type emulsions and the HAp nanoparticle-armored microspheres. The HAp nanoparticle-armored PCL microspheres were characterized in terms of size, size distribution, morphology, and chemical compositions using scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The presence of HAp nanoparticles at the surface of the microspheres was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Pyrolysis of the PCL cores led to the formation of the corresponding HAp hollow microcapsules. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Cationic PLGA/Eudragit RL nanoparticles for increasing retention time in synovial cavity after intra-articular injection in knee joint.

    PubMed

    Kim, Sung Rae; Ho, Myoung Jin; Lee, Eugene; Lee, Joon Woo; Choi, Young Wook; Kang, Myung Joo

    2015-01-01

    Positively surface-charged poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)/Eudragit RL nanoparticles (NPs) were designed to increase retention time and sustain release profile in joints after intra-articular injection, by forming micrometer-sized electrostatic aggregates with hyaluronic acid, an endogenous anionic polysaccharide found in high amounts in synovial fluid. The cationic NPs consisting of PLGA, Eudragit RL, and polyvinyl alcohol were fabricated by solvent evaporation technique. The NPs were 170.1 nm in size, with a zeta potential of 21.3 mV in phosphate-buffered saline. Hyperspectral imaging (CytoViva(®)) revealed the formation of the micrometer-sized filamentous aggregates upon admixing, due to electrostatic interaction between NPs and the polysaccharides. NPs loaded with a fluorescent probe (1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3' tetramethylindotricarbocyanine iodide, DiR) displayed a significantly improved retention time in the knee joint, with over 50% preservation of the fluorescent signal 28 days after injection. When DiR solution was injected intra-articularly, the fluorescence levels rapidly decreased to 30% of the initial concentration within 3 days in mice. From these findings, we suggest that PLGA-based cationic NPs could be a promising tool for prolonged delivery of therapeutic agents in joints selectively.

  12. Multivariate analysis for the optimization of microfluidics-assisted nanoprecipitation method intended for the loading of small hydrophilic drugs into PLGA nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Chiesa, E; Dorati, R; Modena, T; Conti, B; Genta, I

    2018-01-30

    Design of Experiment-assisted evaluation of critical process (total flow rate, TFR, flow rate ratio, FRR) and formulation (polymer concentration and structure, drug:polymer ratio) variables in a novel microfluidics-based device, a staggered herringbone micromixer (SHM), for poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymer (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) manufacturing was performed in order to systematically evaluate and mathematically describe their effects on NPs sizes and drug encapsulation; a small hydrophilic moiety, N-acetylcysteine, was chosen as challenging model drug. SHM-assisted nanoprecipitation method consistently yielded NPs with tailor made sizes (in the range of 100-900 nm) and polydispersity index range from 0.061 to 0.286. Significant effects on NPs sizes were highlighted for TFR and FRR: increasing TFR (from 5 to 15 mL/min) and decreasing FRR (from 1:1 to 1:5 v/v, acetonitrile: buffer) NPs with mean diameter <200 nm were obtained. SHM technique allowed for flexible, application-specific tuning of PLGA NPs size using organic solvents with relatively low toxicity (acetone, acetonitrile), varying aqueous phase composition (Tris buffer vs PVA aqueous solution) and PLGA characteristics (Mw ranging from 25-90 kDa, capped or un-capped PLGA, different lactide:glycolide molar ratio). A very satisfactory N-Ac encapsulation efficiency (more than 67%) and a prolonged release (by 168 h) were achieved. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Co-delivery of cisplatin and paclitaxel by folic acid conjugated amphiphilic PEG-PLGA copolymer nanoparticles for the treatment of non-small lung cancer.

    PubMed

    He, Zelai; Huang, Jingwen; Xu, Yuanyuan; Zhang, Xiangyu; Teng, Yanwei; Huang, Can; Wu, Yufeng; Zhang, Xi; Zhang, Huijun; Sun, Wenjie

    2015-12-08

    An amphiphilic copolymer, folic acid (FA) modified poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (FA-PEG-PLGA) was prepared and explored as a nanometer carrier for the co-delivery of cisplatin (cis-diaminodichloroplatinum, CDDP) and paclitaxel (PTX). CDDP and PTX were encapsulated inside the hydrophobic inner core and chelated to the middle shell, respectively. PEG provided the outer corona for prolonged circulation. An in vitro release profile of the CDDP + PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles revealed that the PTX chelation cross-link prevented an initial burst release of CDDP. After an incubation period of 24 hours, the CDDP+PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles exhibited a highly synergistic effect for the inhibition of A549 (FA receptor negative) and M109 (FA receptor positive) lung cancer cell line proliferation. Pharmacokinetic experiment and distribution research shows that nanoparticles have longer circulation time in the blood and can prolong the treatment times of chemotherapeutic drugs. For the in vivo treatment of A549 cells xeno-graft lung tumor, the CDDP+PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles displayed an obvious tumor inhibiting effect with an 89.96% tumor suppression rate (TSR). This TSR was significantly higher than that of free chemotherapy drug combination or nanoparticles with a single drug. For M109 cells xeno-graft tumor, the TSR was 95.03%. In vitro and in vivo experiments have all shown that the CDDP+PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles have better targeting and antitumor effects in M109 cells than CDDP+PTX-loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles (p < 0.05). In addition, more importantly, the enhanced anti-tumor efficacy of the CDDP+PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles came with reduced side-effects. No obvious body weight loss or functional changes occurred within blood components, liver, or kidneys during the treatment of A549 and M109 tumor-bearing mice with the CDDP+PTX-encapsulated nanoparticles. Thus, the FA modified amphiphilic copolymer-based combination of CDDP and

  14. Hierarchically assembled Au microspheres and sea urchin-like architectures: formation mechanism and SERS study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Xiansong; Yang, Da-Peng; Huang, Peng; Li, Min; Li, Chao; Chen, Di; Cui, Daxiang

    2012-11-01

    The hierarchically assembled Au microspheres/sea urchin-like structures have been synthesized in aqueous solution at room temperature with and without proteins (bovine serum albumin, BSA) as mediators. The average diameter of an individual Au microsphere is 300-600 nm, which is composed of some compact nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 15 nm. Meanwhile, the sea urchin-like Au architecture exhibits an average diameter of 600-800 nm, which is made up of some nanopricks with an average length of 100-200 nm. These products are characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM). It is found that the BSA and ascorbic acid (AA) have great effects on the morphology of the resulting products. Two different growth mechanisms are proposed. The study on surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activities is also carried out between Au microspheres and Au sea urchin-like architectures. It is found that Au urchin-like architectures possess much higher SERS activity than the Au microspheres. Our work may shed light on the design and synthesis of hierarchically self-assembled 3D micro/nano-architectures for SERS, catalysis and biosensors.The hierarchically assembled Au microspheres/sea urchin-like structures have been synthesized in aqueous solution at room temperature with and without proteins (bovine serum albumin, BSA) as mediators. The average diameter of an individual Au microsphere is 300-600 nm, which is composed of some compact nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 15 nm. Meanwhile, the sea urchin-like Au architecture exhibits an average diameter of 600-800 nm, which is made up of some nanopricks with an average length of 100-200 nm. These products are characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM). It is found that the BSA and ascorbic acid (AA) have great effects on the morphology of

  15. A Review of the Development of a Vehicle for Localized and Controlled Drug Delivery for Implantable Biosensors

    PubMed Central

    Bhardwaj, Upkar; Papadimitrakopoulos, Fotios; Burgess, Diane J.

    2008-01-01

    A major obstacle to the development of implantable biosensors is the foreign body response (FBR) that results from tissue trauma during implantation and the continuous presence of the implant in the body. The in vivo stability and functionality of biosensors are compromised by damage to sensor components and decreased analyte transport to the sensor. This paper summarizes research undertaken by our group since 2001 to control the FBR toward implanted sensors. Localized and sustained delivery of the anti-inflammatory drug, dexamethasone, and the angiogenic growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), was utilized to inhibit inflammation as well as fibrosis and provide a stable tissue–device interface without producing systemic adverse effects. The drug-loaded polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microspheres were embedded in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel composite to fabricate a drug-eluting, permeable external coating for implantable devices. The composites were fabricated using the freeze–thaw cycle method and had mechanical properties similar to soft body tissue. Dexamethasone-loaded microsphere/hydrogel composites were able to provide anti-inflammatory protection, preventing the FBR. Moreover, concurrent release of dexamethasone with VEGF induced neoangiogenesis in addition to providing anti-inflammatory protection. Sustained release of dexamethasone is required for the entire sensor lifetime, as a delayed inflammatory response developed after depletion of the drug from the composites. These studies have shown the potential of PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel-based composites as drug-eluting external coatings for implantable biosensors. PMID:19885291

  16. Intracellular drug delivery by poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles, revisited

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Peisheng; Gullotti, Emily; Tong, Ling; Highley, Christopher B.; Errabelli, Divya R.; Hasan, Tayyaba; Cheng, Ji-Xin; Kohane, Daniel S.; Yeo, Yoon

    2008-01-01

    We reexamined the cellular drug delivery mechanism by poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) to determine their utility and limitations as an intracellular drug delivery system. First, we prepared PLGA NPs which physically encapsulated Nile red (a hydrophobic fluorescent dye), in accordance with the usual procedure for labeling PLGA NPs, incubated them with mesothelial cells, and observed an increase in the intracellular fluorescence. We then prepared NPs from PLGA chemically conjugated to a fluorescent dye and observed their uptake by the mesothelial cells using confocal microscopy. We also used Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) microscopy to image cellular uptake of unlabeled PLGA NPs. Results of this study coherently suggest that PLGA NPs (i) are not readily taken up by cells, but (ii) deliver the payload to cells by extracellular drug release and/or direct drug transfer to contacting cells, which are contrasted with the prevalent view. From this alternative standpoint, we analyzed cytotoxicities of doxorubicin and paclitaxel delivered by PLGA NPs and compared with those of free drugs. Finally, we revisit previous findings in the literature and discuss potential strategies to achieve efficient drug delivery to the target tissues using PLGA NPs. PMID:19035785

  17. Hyaluronic acid-decorated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles for combined delivery of docetaxel and tanespimycin.

    PubMed

    Pradhan, Roshan; Ramasamy, Thiruganesh; Choi, Ju Yeon; Kim, Jeong Hwan; Poudel, Bijay Kumar; Tak, Jin Wook; Nukolova, Natalia; Choi, Han-Gon; Yong, Chul Soon; Kim, Jong Oh

    2015-06-05

    Multiple-drug combination therapy is becoming more common in the treatment of advanced cancers because this approach can decrease side effects and delay or prevent drug resistance. In the present study, we developed hyaluronic acid (HA)-decorated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (HA-PLGA NPs) for co-delivery of docetaxel (DTX) and tanespimycin (17-AAG). DTX and 17-AAG were simultaneously loaded into HA-PLGA NPs using an oil-in-water emulsification/solvent evaporation method. Several formulations were tested. HA-PLGA NPs loaded with DTX and 17-AAG at a molar ratio of 2:1 produced the smallest particle size (173.3±2.2nm), polydispersity index (0.151±0.026), and zeta potential (-12.4±0.4mV). Approximately 60% and 40% of DTX and 17-AAG, respectively, were released over 168h in vitro. Cytotoxicity assays performed in vitro using MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and SCC-7 cells showed that dual drug-loaded HA-PLGA NPs at a DTX:17-AAG molar ratio of 2:1 exhibited the highest synergistic effect, with combination index values of 0.051, 0.036, and 0.032, respectively, at the median effective dose. Furthermore, synergistic antitumor activity was demonstrated in vivo in a CD44 and RHAMM (CD168) - overexpressing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC-7) xenograft in nude mice. These findings indicated that nanosystem-based co-delivery of DTX and 17-AAG could provide a promising combined therapeutic strategy for enhanced antitumor therapy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Entrapment of H1N1 Influenza Virus Derived Conserved Peptides in PLGA Nanoparticles Enhances T Cell Response and Vaccine Efficacy in Pigs.

    PubMed

    Hiremath, Jagadish; Kang, Kyung-il; Xia, Ming; Elaish, Mohamed; Binjawadagi, Basavaraj; Ouyang, Kang; Dhakal, Santosh; Arcos, Jesus; Torrelles, Jordi B; Jiang, X; Lee, Chang Won; Renukaradhya, Gourapura J

    2016-01-01

    Pigs are believed to be one of the important sources of emerging human and swine influenza viruses (SwIV). Influenza virus conserved peptides have the potential to elicit cross-protective immune response, but without the help of potent adjuvant and delivery system they are poorly immunogenic. Biodegradable polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticle (PLGA-NP) based vaccine delivery system enhances cross-presentation of antigens by the professional antigen presenting cells. In this study, Norovirus P particle containing SwIV M2e (extracellular domain of the matrix protein 2) chimera and highly conserved two each of H1N1 peptides of pandemic 2009 and classical human influenza viruses were entrapped in PLGA-NPs. Influenza antibody-free pigs were vaccinated with PLGA-NPs peptides cocktail vaccine twice with or without an adjuvant, Mycobacterium vaccae whole cell lysate, intranasally as mist. Vaccinated pigs were challenged with a virulent heterologous zoonotic SwIV H1N1, and one week later euthanized and the lung samples were analyzed for the specific immune response and viral load. Clinically, pigs vaccinated with PLGA-NP peptides vaccine had no fever and flu symptoms, and the replicating challenged SwIV was undetectable in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Immunologically, PLGA-NP peptides vaccination (without adjuvant) significantly increased the frequency of antigen-specific IFNγ secreting CD4 and CD8 T cells response in the lung lymphocytes, despite not boosting the antibody response both at pre- and post-challenge. In summary, our data indicated that nanoparticle-mediated delivery of conserved H1N1 influenza peptides induced the virus specific T cell response in the lungs and reduced the challenged heterologous virus load in the airways of pigs.

  19. Chitosan-PLGA polymer blends as coatings for hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and their effect on antimicrobial properties, osteoconductivity and regeneration of osseous tissues

    PubMed Central

    Ignjatović, Nenad; Wu, Victoria; Ajduković, Zorica; Mihajilov-Krstev, Tatjana; Uskoković, Vuk; Uskoković, Dragan

    2016-01-01

    Composite biomaterials comprising nanostructured hydroxyapatite (HAp) have an enormous potential for natural bone tissue reparation, filling and augmentation. Chitosan (Ch) as a naturally derived polymer has many physicochemical and biological properties that make it an attractive material for use in bone tissue engineering. On the other hand, poly-D,L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) is a synthetic polymer with a long history of use in sustained drug delivery and tissue engineering. However, while chitosan can disrupt the cell membrane integrity and may induce blood thrombosis, PLGA releases acidic byproducts that may cause tissue inflammation and interfere with the healing process. One of the strategies to improve the biocompatibility of Ch and PLGA is to combine them with compounds that exhibit complementary properties. In this study we present the synthesis and characterization, as well as in vitro and in vivo analyses of a nanoparticulate form of HAp coated with two different polymeric systems: (a) Ch and (b) a Ch-PLGA polymer blend. Solvent/non-solvent precipitation and freeze-drying were used for synthesis and processing, respectively, whereas thermogravimetry coupled with mass spectrometry was used for phase identification purposes in the coating process. HAp/Ch composite particles exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity against all four microbial strains tested in this work, but after the reconstruction of the bone defect they also caused inflammatory reactions in the newly formed tissue where the defect had lain. Coating HAp with a polymeric blend composed of Ch and PLGA led to a decrease in the reactivity and antimicrobial activity of the composite particles, but also to an increase in the quality of the newly formed bone tissue in the reconstructed defect area. PMID:26706541

  20. Thermal response of chalcogenide microsphere resonators

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ahmad, H; Aryanfar, I; Lim, K S

    2012-05-31

    A chalcogenide microsphere resonator (CMR) used for temperature sensing is proposed and demonstrated. The CMR is fabricated using a simple technique of heating chalcogenide glass and allowing the molten glass to form a microsphere on the waist of a tapered silica fibre. The thermal responses of the CMR is investigated and compared to that of a single-mode-fibre (SMF) based microsphere resonator. It is observed that the CMR sensitivity to ambient temperature changes is 8 times higher than that of the SMF-based microsphere resonator. Heating the chalcogenide microsphere with a laser beam periodically turned on and off shows periodic shifts inmore » the transmission spectrum of the resonator. By injecting an intensity-modulated cw signal through the resonator a thermal relaxation time of 55 ms is estimated.« less

  1. Enhancement of stem cell differentiation to osteogenic lineage on hydroxyapatite-coated hybrid PLGA/gelatin nanofiber scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Sanaei-Rad, Parisa; Jafarzadeh Kashi, Tahereh-Sadat; Seyedjafari, Ehsan; Soleimani, Masoud

    2016-11-01

    A combination of polymeric materials and bioceramics has recently received a great deal of attention for bone tissue engineering applications. In the present study, hybrid nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated from PLGA and gelatin via electrospinning and then were coated with hydroxyapatite (HA). They were then characterized and used in stem cell culture studies for the evaluation of their biological behavior and osteogenic differentiation in vitro. This study showed that all PLGA, hybrid PLGA/gelatin and HA-PLGA/gelatin scaffolds were composed of ultrafine fibers with smooth morphology and interconnected pores. The MTT assay confirmed that the scaffolds can support the attachment and proliferation of stem cells. During osteogenic differentiation, bone-related gene expression, ALP activity and biomineralization on HA-PLGA/gelatin scaffolds were higher than those observed on other scaffolds and TCPS. PLGA/gelatin electrospun scaffolds also showed higher values of these markers than TCPS. Taking together, it was shown that nanofibrous structure enhanced osteogenic differentiation of adipose-tissue derived stem cells. Furthermore, surface-coated HA stimulated the effect of nanofibers on the commitment of stem cells toward osteolineage. In conclusion, HA-PLGA/gelatin electrospun scaffolds were demonstrated to have significant potential for bone tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2016 International Alliance for Biological Standardization. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Fabrication of glass microspheres with conducting surfaces

    DOEpatents

    Elsholz, William E.

    1984-01-01

    A method for making hollow glass microspheres with conducting surfaces by adding a conducting vapor to a region of the glass fabrication furnace. As droplets or particles of glass forming material pass through multiple zones of different temperature in a glass fabrication furnace, and are transformed into hollow glass microspheres, the microspheres pass through a region of conducting vapor, forming a conducting coating on the surface of the microspheres.

  3. Fabrication of glass microspheres with conducting surfaces

    DOEpatents

    Elsholz, W.E.

    1982-09-30

    A method for making hollow glass microspheres with conducting surfaces by adding a conducting vapor to a region of the glass fabrication furnace. As droplets or particles of glass forming material pass through multiple zones of different temperature in a glass fabrication furnace, and are transformed into hollow glass microspheres, the microspheres pass through a region of conducting vapor, forming a conducting coating on the surface of the microspheres.

  4. Copper oxide loaded PLGA nanospheres: towards a multifunctional nanoscale platform for ultrasound-based imaging and therapy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Perlman, Or; Weitz, Iris S.; Sivan, Sarit S.; Abu-Khalla, Hiba; Benguigui, Madeleine; Shaked, Yuval; Azhari, Haim

    2018-05-01

    Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) are increasingly becoming the subject of investigation exploring their potential use for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Recent work has demonstrated their anticancer potential, as well as contrast agent capabilities for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and through-transmission ultrasound. However, no capability of CuO-NPs has been demonstrated using conventional ultrasound systems, which, unlike the former, are widely deployed in the clinic. Furthermore, in spite of their potential as multifunctional nano-based materials for diagnosis and therapy, CuO-NPs have been delayed from further clinical application due to their inherent toxicity. Herein, we present the synthesis of a novel nanoscale system, composed of CuO-loaded PLGA nanospheres (CuO-PLGA-NS), and demonstrate its imaging detectability and augmented heating effect by therapeutic ultrasound. The CuO-PLGA-NS were prepared by a double emulsion (W/O/W) method with subsequent solvent evaporation. They were characterized as sphere-shaped, with size approximately 200 nm. Preliminary results showed that the viability of PANC-1, human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells was not affected after 72 h exposure to CuO-PLGA-NS, implying that PLGA masks the toxic effects of CuO-NPs. A systematic ultrasound imaging evaluation of CuO-PLGA-NS, using a conventional system, was performed in vitro and ex vivo using poultry heart and liver, and also in vivo using mice, all yielding a significant contrast enhancement. In contrast to CuO-PLGA-NS, neither bare CuO-NPs nor blank PLGA-NS possess these unique advantageous ultrasonic properties. Furthermore, CuO-PLGA-NS accelerated ultrasound-induced temperature elevation by more than 4 °C within 2 min. The heating efficiency (cumulative equivalent minutes at 43 °C) was increased approximately six-fold, demonstrating the potential for improved ultrasound ablation. In conclusion, CuO-PLGA-NS constitute a versatile platform, potentially useful for

  5. Coating gigaporous polystyrene microspheres with cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel as a rapid protein chromatography matrix.

    PubMed

    Qu, Jian-Bo; Huan, Guan-Sheng; Chen, Yan-Li; Zhou, Wei-Qing; Liu, Jian-Guo; Huang, Fang

    2014-08-13

    Gigaporous polystyrene (PS) microspheres were hydrophilized by in situ polymerization to give a stable cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel coating, which can shield proteins from the hydrophobic PS surface underneath. The amination of microspheres (PS-NH2) was first carried out through acetylization, oximation and reduction, and then 4,4'-azobis (4-cyanovaleric acid) (ACV), a polymerization initiator, was covalently immobilized on PS-NH2 through amide bond formation, and the cross-linked poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) was prepared by radical polymerization at the surfaces of ACV-immobilized PS microspheres (PS-ACV). Finally, the cross-linked PVA hydrogel coated gigaporous PS microspheres (PS-PVA) was easily achieved through alcoholysis of PVAc. Results suggested that the PS microspheres were effectively coated with cross-linked PVA hydrogel, where the gigaporrous structure remained under optimal conditions. After hydrophilic modification (PS-PVA), the protein-resistant ability of microspheres was greatly improved. The hydroxyl-rich PS-PVA surface can be easily derivatized by classical chemical methods. Performance advantages of the PS-PVA column in flow experiment include good permeability, low backpressure, and mechanical stability. These results indicated that PS-PVA should be promising in rapid protein chromatography.

  6. Surface Entrapment of Fibronectin on Electrospun PLGA Scaffolds for Periodontal Tissue Engineering

    PubMed Central

    Gritsch, Kerstin; Salles, Vincent; Attik, Ghania N.; Grosgogeat, Brigitte

    2014-01-01

    Abstract Nowadays, the challenge in the tissue engineering field consists in the development of biomaterials designed to regenerate ad integrum damaged tissues. Despite the current use of bioresorbable polyesters such as poly(l-lactide) (PLA), poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), and poly-ɛ-caprolactone in soft tissue regeneration researches, their hydrophobic properties negatively influence the cell adhesion. Here, to overcome it, we have developed a fibronectin (FN)-functionalized electrospun PLGA scaffold for periodontal ligament regeneration. Functionalization of electrospun PLGA scaffolds was performed by alkaline hydrolysis (0.1 or 0.01 M NaOH). Then, hydrolyzed scaffolds were coated by simple deposition of an FN layer (10 μg/mL). FN coating was evidenced by X-ray photoelectron analysis. A decrease of contact angle and greater cell adhesion to hydrolyzed, FN-coated PLGA scaffolds were noticed. Suitable degradation behavior without pH variations was observed for all samples up to 28 days. All treated materials presented strong shrinkage, fiber orientation loss, and collapsed fibers. However, functionalization process using 0.01 M NaOH concentration resulted in unchanged scaffold porosity, preserved chemical composition, and similar mechanical properties compared with untreated scaffolds. The proposed simplified method to functionalize electrospun PLGA fibers is an efficient route to make polyester scaffolds more biocompatible and shows potential for tissue engineering. PMID:24940563

  7. Dynamic in vivo imaging of dual-triggered microspheres for sustained release applications: synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity study.

    PubMed

    Efthimiadou, Eleni K; Tapeinos, Christos; Chatzipavlidis, Alexandros; Boukos, Nikos; Fragogeorgi, Eirini; Palamaris, Lazaros; Loudos, George; Kordas, George

    2014-01-30

    This paper deals with the synthesis, characterization and property evaluation of drug-loaded magnetic microspheres with pH-responsive cross-linked polymer shell. The synthetic procedure consists of 3 steps, of which the first two comprise the synthesis of a poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) template and the synthesis of a shell by using acrylic acid (AA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) as monomers, and divinyl benzene (DVB) as cross-linker. The third step of the procedure refers to the formation of magnetic nanoparticles on the microsphere's surface. AA that attaches pH-sensitivity in the microspheres and magnetic nanoparticles in the inner and the outer surface of the microspheres, enhance the efficacy of this intelligent drug delivery system (DDS), which constitutes a promising approach toward cancer therapy. A number of experimental techniques were used to characterize the resulting microspheres. In order to investigate the in vitro controlled release behavior of the synthesized microspheres, we studied the Dox release percentage under different pH conditions and under external magnetic field. Hyperthermia caused by an alternating magnetic field (AFM) is used in order to study the doxorubicin (Dox) release behavior from microspheres with pH functionality. The in vivo fate of these hybrid-microspheres was tracked by labeling them with the γ-emitting radioisotope (99m)Tc after being intravenously injected in normal mice. According to our results, microsphere present a pH depending and a magnetic heating, release behavior. As expected, labeled microspheres were mainly found in the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS). The highlights of the current research are: (i) to illustrate the advantages of controlled release by combining hyperthermia and pH-sensitivity and (ii) to provide noninvasive, in vivo information on the spatiotemporal biodistribution of these microsphere by dynamic γ-imaging. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Layering PLGA-based electrospun membranes and cell sheets for engineering cartilage-bone transition.

    PubMed

    Mouthuy, P-A; El-Sherbini, Y; Cui, Z; Ye, H

    2016-04-01

    It is now widely acknowledged that implants that have been designed with an effort towards reconstructing the transition between tissues might improve their functionality and integration in vivo. This paper contributes to the development of improved treatment for articular cartilage repair by exploring the potential of the combination of electrospinning technology and cell sheet engineering to create cartilage tissue. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) was used to create the electrospun membranes. The focus being on the cartilage-bone transition, collagen type I and hydroxyapatite (HA) were also added to the scaffolds to increase the histological biocompatibility. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) were cultured in thermoresponsive dishes to allow non-enzymatic removal of an intact cell layer after reaching confluence. The tissue constructs were created by layering electrospun membranes with sheets of hMSCs and were cultured under chondrogenic conditions for up to 21 days. High viability was found to be maintained in the multilayered construct. Under chondrogenic conditions, reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry have shown high expression levels of collagen type X, a form of collagen typically found in the calcified zone of articular cartilage, suggesting an induction of chondrocyte hypertrophy in the PLGA-based scaffolds. To conclude, this paper suggests that layering electrospun scaffolds and cell sheets is an efficient approach for the engineering of tissue transitions, and in particular the cartilage-bone transition. The use of PLGA-based scaffold might be particularly useful for the bone-cartilage reconstruction, since the differentiated tissue constructs seem to show characteristics of calcified cartilage. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  9. Magnetic susceptibility characterisation of superparamagnetic microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grob, David Tim; Wise, Naomi; Oduwole, Olayinka; Sheard, Steve

    2018-04-01

    The separation of magnetic materials in microsystems using magnetophoresis has increased in popularity. The wide variety and availability of magnetic beads has fuelled this drive. It is important to know the magnetic characteristics of the microspheres in order to accurately use them in separation processes integrated on a lab-on-a-chip device. To investigate the magnetic susceptibility of magnetic microspheres, the magnetic responsiveness of three types of Dynabeads microspheres were tested using two different approaches. The magnetophoretic mobility of individual microspheres is studied using a particle tracking system and the magnetization of each type of Dynabeads microsphere is measured using SQUID relaxometry. The magnetic beads' susceptibility is obtained at four different applied magnetic fields in the range of 38-70 mT for both the mobility and SQUID measurements. The susceptibility values in both approaches show a consistent magnetic field dependence.

  10. Microencapsulation of curcumin in PLGA microcapsules by coaxial flow focusing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lei, Fan; Si, Ting; Luo, Xisheng; Xu, Ronald X.

    2014-03-01

    Curcumin-loaded PLGA microcapsules are fabricated by a liquid-driving coaxial flow focusing device. In the process, a stable coaxial cone-jet configuration is formed under the action of a coflowing liquid stream and the coaxial liquid jet eventually breaks up into microcapsules because of flow instability. This process can be well controlled by adjusting the flow rates of three phases including the driving PVA water solution, the outer PLGA ethyl acetate solution and the inner curcumin propylene glycol solution. Confocal and SEM imaging methods clearly indicate the core-shell structure of the resultant microcapsules. The encapsulation rate of curcumin in PLGA is measured to be more than 70%, which is much higher than the tranditional methods such as emulsion. The size distribution of resultant microcapsules under different conditions is presented and compared. An in vitro release simulation platform is further developed to verify the feasibility and reliability of the method.

  11. Polarization Dependent Whispering Gallery Modes in Microspheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Adamovsky, Grigory (Inventor); Wrbanek, Susan Y. (Inventor)

    2016-01-01

    A tunable resonant system is provided and includes a microsphere that receives an incident portion of a light beam generated via a light source, the light beam having a fundamental mode, a waveguide medium that transmits the light beam from the light source to the microsphere, and a polarizer disposed in a path of the waveguide between the light source and the microsphere. The incident portion of the light beam creates a fundamental resonance inside the microsphere. A change in a normalized frequency of the wavelength creates a secondary mode in the waveguide and the secondary mode creates a secondary resonance inside the microsphere.

  12. Characterization of polylactic co-glycolic acid nanospheres modified with PVA and DDAB

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mulia, Kamarza; Satyapertiwi, Dwiantari; Devina, Ranee; Krisanti, Elsa

    2017-02-01

    The common treatment for diabetic retinopathy is corticosteroids intravitreal injection that sometimes lead to complications. Dexamethasone-loaded polylactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanospheres, modified with dioctadecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB) as the cationic surfactant, is expected to prolong drug retention time. Zeta potential of the PLGA nanospheres prepared using non-ionic surfactant PVA and DDAB confirmed the cationic surfactant increase the surface charge of the PLGA nanospheres. The optimal formulation based on the particle size and high positive surface charge was the PLGA-DDAB nanospheres. SEM analysis showed spherical morphology of the nanospheres having diameter 626.9 ± 98.01 nm positive zeta potential of +22.5 mV.

  13. A mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL copolymer carrier for adriamycin and siRNA delivery.

    PubMed

    Liu, Peifeng; Yu, Hui; Sun, Ying; Zhu, Mingjie; Duan, Yourong

    2012-06-01

    A amphiphilic block copolymer composed of conventional monomethoxy (polyethylene glycol)-poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)-poly (l-lysine) (mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL) was synthesized. The chemical structure of this copolymer and its precursors was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), (1)H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance ((1)H NMR) and Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC). The copolymer was used to prepare nanoparticles (NPs) that were then loaded with either the anti-cancer drug adriamycin or small interfering RNA-negative (siRNA) using a double emulsion method. MTT assays used to study the in vitro cytotoxicity of mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL NPs showed that these particles were not toxic in huh-7 hepatic carcinoma cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and flow cytometer analysis results demonstrated efficient mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL NPs-mediated delivery of both adriamycin and siRNA into the cells. In vivo the targeting delivery of adriamycin or siRNA mediated by mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL NPs in the huh-7 hepatic carcinoma-bearing mice was evaluated using a fluorescence imaging system. The targeting delivery results and froze section analysis confirmed that drug or siRNA is deliver to tumor more efficiently by mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL NPs than free drug or Lipofectamine™2000. The high efficiency delivery of mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL NPs mainly due to the enhancement of cellular uptake. These results imply that mPEG-PLGA-b-PLL NPs have a great potential to be used as an effective carriers for adriamycin or siRNA. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) nanoparticles markedly improve immunological protection provided by peptide P10 against murine paracoccidioidomycosis

    PubMed Central

    Amaral, André C; Marques, Alexandre F; Muñoz, Julián E; Bocca, Anamélia L; Simioni, Andreza R; Tedesco, Antonio C; Morais, Paulo C; Travassos, Luiz R; Taborda, Carlos P; Felipe, Maria Sueli S

    2010-01-01

    Background and purpose: The present study reports on the preparation and testing of a sustained delivery system for the immunomodulatory peptide P10 aimed at reducing the in vivo degradation of the peptide and the amount required to elicit a protective immune response against paracoccidioidomycosis. Experimental approach: BALB/c mice were infected with the yeast Paracoccidioides brasiliensis to mimic the chronic form of paracoccidioidomycosis. The animals were treated daily with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim alone or combined with peptide P10, either emulsified in Freund's adjuvant or entrapped in poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles at different concentrations (1 µg, 5 µg, 10 µg, 20 µg or 40 µg·50 µL−1). Therapeutic efficacy was assessed as fungal burden in tissues and the immune response by quantitative determination of cytokines. Key results: Animals given combined chemotherapy and P10 nanotherapy presented a marked reduction of fungal load in the lungs, compared with the non-treated animals. After 30 days of treatment, P10 entrapped within PLGA (1 µg·50 µL−1) was more effective than ‘free’ P10 emulsified in Freund's adjuvant (20 µg·50 µL−1), as an adjuvant to chemotherapy. After treatment for 90 days, the higher doses of P10 entrapped within PLGA (5 or 10 µg·50 µL−1) were most effective. Treatment with P10 emulsified in Freund's adjuvant (20 µg·50 µL−1) or P10 entrapped within PLGA (1 µg·50 µL−1) were accompanied by high levels of interferon-gamma in lung. Conclusions and implications: Combination of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim with the P10 peptide entrapped within PLGA demonstrated increased therapeutic efficacy against paracoccidioidomycosis. P10 incorporation into PLGA nanoparticles dramatically reduced the peptide amount necessary to elicit a protective effect. PMID:20136827

  15. Preparation, characterization, and biodistribution of letrozole loaded PLGA nanoparticles in Ehrlich Ascites tumor bearing mice.

    PubMed

    Mondal, Nita; Halder, Kamal Krishna; Kamila, Madan Mohan; Debnath, Mita Chatterjee; Pal, Tapan K; Ghosal, Saroj K; Sarkar, Bharat R; Ganguly, Shantanu

    2010-09-15

    Letrozole (LTZ) incorporated PLGA nanoparticles were prepared by solvent displacement technique and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, poly-dispersity index and zeta potential measurement. Radiolabeling of free LTZ and LTZ-loaded PLGA NPs was performed with technetium-99m with high labeling efficiency. The labeled complex showed good in vitro stability as verified by DTPA challenge test. The labeled complexes also showed significant in vivo stability when incubated in rat serum for 24 h. Biodistribution studies of (99m)Tc-labeled complexes were performed after intravenous administration in normal mice and Ehrlich Ascites tumor bearing mice. Compared to free LTZ, LTZ-loaded PLGA NPs exhibited significantly lower uptake by the organs of RES. The tumor concentration of LTZ-loaded PLGA NPs was 4.65 times higher than that of free LTZ at 4 h post-injection. This study indicates the capability of PLGA nanopartcles in enhancing the tumor uptake of letrozole. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. In vitro evaluation of biodegradable microspheres with surface-bound ligands.

    PubMed

    Keegan, Mark E; Royce, Sara M; Fahmy, Tarek; Saltzman, W Mark

    2006-02-21

    Protein ligands were conjugated to the surface of biodegradable microspheres. These microsphere-ligand conjugates were then used in two in vitro model systems to evaluate the effect of conjugated ligands on microsphere behavior. Microsphere retention in agarose columns was increased by ligands on the microsphere surface specific for receptors on the agarose matrix. In another experiment, conjugating the lectin Ulex europaeus agglutinin 1 to the microsphere surface increased microsphere adhesion to Caco-2 monolayers compared to control microspheres. This increase in microsphere adhesion was negated by co-administration of l-fucose, indicating that the increase in adhesion is due to specific interaction of the ligand with carbohydrate receptors on the cell surface. These results demonstrate that the ligands conjugated to the microspheres maintain their receptor binding activity and are present on the microsphere surface at a density sufficient to target the microspheres to both monolayers and three-dimensional matrices bearing complementary receptors.

  17. Biofabrication of a PLGA-TCP-based porous bioactive bone substitute with sustained release of icaritin.

    PubMed

    Xie, Xin-Hui; Wang, Xin-Luan; Zhang, Ge; He, Yi-Xin; Leng, Yang; Tang, Ting-Ting; Pan, Xiaohua; Qin, Ling

    2015-08-01

    A phytomolecule, icaritin, has been identified and shown to be osteopromotive for the prevention of osteoporosis and osteonecrosis. This study aimed to produce a bioactive poly (l-lactide-co-glycolide)-tricalcium phosphate (PLGA-TCP)-based porous scaffold incorporating the osteopromotive phytomolecule icaritin, using a fine spinning technology. Both the structure and the composition of icaritin-releasing PLGA-TCP-based scaffolds were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The porosity was quantified by both water absorption and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). The mechanical properties were evaluated using a compression test. In vitro release of icaritin from the PLGA-TCP scaffold was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The attachment, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on the composite scaffold were evaluated. Both an in vitro cytotoxicity test and an in vivo test via muscular implantation were conducted to confirm the scaffold's biocompatibility. The results showed that the PLGA-TCP-icaritin composite scaffold was porous, with interconnected macro- (about 480 µm) and micropores (2-15 µm). The mechanical properties of the PLGA-TCP-icaritin scaffold were comparable with those of the pure PLGA-TCP scaffold, yet was spinning direction-dependent. Icaritin content was detected in the medium and increased with time. The PLGA-TCP-icaritin scaffold facilitated the attachment, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. In vitro cytotoxicity test and in vivo intramuscular implantation showed that the composite scaffold had no toxicity with good biocompatibility. In conclusion, an osteopromotive phytomolecule, icaritin, was successfully incorporated into PLGA-TCP to form an innovative porous composite scaffold with sustained release of osteopromotive icaritin, and this scaffold had good biocompatibility and osteopromotion, suggesting its potential for orthopaedic

  18. Influence of clay particles on microfluidic-based preparation of hydrogel composite microsphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hong, Joung Sook

    2016-05-01

    For the successful fabrication of a hydrogel composite microsphere, this study aimed to investigate the influence of clay particles on microsphere formation in a microfluidic device which has flow focusing and a 4.5:1 contraction channel. A poly alginic acid solution (2.0 wt.%) with clay particles was used as the dispersed phase to generate drops in an oil medium, which then merged with drops of a CaCl2 solution for gelation. Drop generations were observed with different flow rates and particles types. When the flow rate increased, drop generation was enhanced and drop size decreased by the build-up of more favorable hydrodynamic flow conditions to detach the droplets. The addition of a small amount of particles insignificantly changed the drop generation behavior even though it reduced interfacial tension and increased the viscosity of the solution. Instead, clays particles significantly affected hydro-gelation depending on the hydrophobicity of particles, which produced further heterogeneity in the shape and size of microsphere.

  19. The Complex Sol-Gel Process for producing small ThO2 microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brykala, Marcin; Rogowski, Marcin

    2016-05-01

    Thorium based fuels offer several benefits compared to uranium based fuels thus they might be an attractive alternative to conventional fuel types. This study is devoted to the synthesis and the characterization of small thorium dioxide microspheres (Ø <50 μm). Their application involves using powder-free process, called the Complex Sol-Gel Process. The source sols used for the processes were prepared by the method where in the starting ascorbic acid solution the solid thorium nitrate was dissolved and partially neutralized by aqueous ammonia under pH control. The microspheres of thorium-ascorbate gel were obtained using the ICHTJ Process (INCT in English). Studies allowed to determine an optimal heat treatment with calcination temperature of 700 °C and temperature rate not higher than 2 °C/min which enabled us to obtain a crack-free surface of microspheres. The main parameters which have a strong influence on the synthesis method and features of the spherical particles of thorium dioxide are described in this article.

  20. Porous Zirconium-Furandicarboxylate Microspheres for Efficient Redox Conversion of Biofuranics.

    PubMed

    Li, Hu; Liu, Xiaofang; Yang, Tingting; Zhao, Wenfeng; Saravanamurugan, Shunmugavel; Yang, Song

    2017-04-22

    Biofuranic compounds, typically derived from C 5 and C 6 carbohydrates, have been extensively studied as promising alternatives to chemicals based on fossil resources. The present work reports the simple assembly of biobased 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) with different metal ions to prepare a range of metal-FDCA hybrids under hydrothermal conditions. The hybrid materials were demonstrated to have porous structure and acid-base bifunctionality. Zr-FDCA-T, in particular, showed a microspheric structure, high thermostability (ca. 400 °C), average pore diameters of approximately 4.7 nm, large density, moderate strength of Lewis-base/acid centers (ca. 1.4 mmol g -1 ), and a small number of Brønsted-acid sites. This material afforded almost quantitative yields of biofuranic alcohols from the corresponding aldehydes under mild conditions through catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH). Isotopic 1 H NMR spectroscopy and kinetic studies verified that direct hydride transfer was the dominant pathway and rate-determining step of the CTH. Importantly, the Zr-FDCA-T microspheres could be recycled with no decrease in catalytic performance and little leaching of active sites. Moreover, good yields of C 5 (i.e., furfural) or C 4 products [i.e., maleic acid and 2(5H)-furanone] could be obtained from furfuryl alcohol without oxidation of the furan ring over these metal-FDCA hybrids. The content and ratio of Lewis-acid/base sites were demonstrated to dominantly affect the catalytic performance of these redox reactions. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. Antimicrobial activity of a new synthetic peptide loaded in polylactic acid or poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cruz, J.; Flórez, J.; Torres, R.; Urquiza, M.; Gutiérrez, J. A.; Guzmán, F.; Ortiz, C. C.

    2017-03-01

    Nanocarrier systems are currently being developed for peptide, protein and gene delivery to protect them in the blood circulation and in the gastrointestinal tract. Polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with a new antimicrobial GIBIM-P5S9K peptide were obtained by the double emulsion solvent extraction/evaporation method. PLA- and PLGA-NPs were spherical with sizes between 300 and 400 nm for PLA and 200 and 300 nm for PLGA and <0.3 polydispersity index as determined by dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy), having the zeta potential of >20 mV. The peptide-loading efficiency of PLA-NP and PLGA-NPs was 75% and 55%, respectively. PLA- and PLGA-NPs released around 50% of this peptide over 8 h. In 10% human sera the size of peptide loaded PLA- and PLGA-NPs increased between 25.2% and 39.3%, the PDI changed from 3.2 to 5.1 and the surface charge from -7.15 to 14.6 mV. Both peptide loaded PLA- and PLGA-NPs at 0.5 μM peptide concentration inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157:H7), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas. aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). In contrast, free peptide inhibited at 10 μM but did not inhibit at 0.5 and 1 μM. These PLA- and PLGA-NPs presented <10% hemolysis indicating that they are hemocompatible and promising for delivery and protection system of GIBIM-P5S9K peptide.

  2. Pickering-type water-in-oil-in-water multiple emulsions toward multihollow nanocomposite microspheres.

    PubMed

    Maeda, Hayata; Okada, Masahiro; Fujii, Syuji; Nakamura, Yoshinobu; Furuzono, Tsutomu

    2010-09-07

    Multihollow hydroxyapatite (HAp)/poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanocomposite microspheres were readily fabricated by solvent evaporation from a "Pickering-type" water-in-(dichloromethane solution of PLLA)-in-water multiple emulsion stabilized with HAp nanoparticles. The multiple emulsion was stabilized with the aid of PLLA molecules used as a wettability modifier for HAp nanoparticles, although HAp nanoparticles did not work solely as particulate emulsifiers for Pickering-type emulsions consisting of pure dichloromethane and water. The interaction between PLLA and HAp nanoparticles at the oil-water interfaces plays a crucial role toward the preparation of stable multiple emulsion and multihollow microspheres.

  3. Controlled release microspheres loaded with BMP7 suppress primary tumors from human glioblastoma

    PubMed Central

    González-Gómez, P.; de la Fuente, M.; Hernández-Laín, Aurelio; Mira, H.; Sánchez-Gómez, P.; Garcia-Fuentes, M.

    2015-01-01

    Glioblastoma tumor initiating cells are believed to be the main drivers behind tumor recurrence, and therefore therapies that specifically manage this population are of great medical interest. In a previous work, we synthesized controlled release microspheres optimized for intracranial delivery of BMP7, and showed that these devices are able to stop the in vitro growth of a glioma cell line. Towards the translational development of this technology, we now explore these microspheres in further detail and characterize the mechanism of action and the in vivo therapeutic potential using tumor models relevant for the clinical setting: human primary glioblastoma cell lines. Our results show that BMP7 can stop the proliferation and block the self-renewal capacity of those primary cell lines that express the receptor BMPR1B. BMP7 was encapsulated in poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres in the form of a complex with heparin and Tetronic, and the formulation provided effective release for several weeks, a process controlled by carrier degradation. Data from xenografts confirmed reduced and delayed tumor formation for animals treated with BMP7-loaded microspheres. This effect was coincident with the activation of the canonical BMP signaling pathway. Importantly, tumors treated with BMP7-loaded microspheres also showed downregulation of several markers that may be related to a malignant stem cell-like phenotype: CD133+, Olig2, and GFAPδ. We also observed that tumors treated with BMP7-loaded microspheres showed enhanced expression of cell cycle inhibitors and reduced expression of the proliferation marker PCNA. In summary, BMP7-loaded controlled release microspheres are able to inhibit GBM growth and reduce malignancy markers. We envisage that this kind of selective therapy for tumor initiating cells could have a synergistic effect in combination with conventional cytoreductive therapy (chemo-, radiotherapy) or with immunotherapy. PMID:25860932

  4. A Comparative Cytotoxic Evaluation of Disulfiram Encapsulated PLGA Nanoparticles on MCF-7 Cells

    PubMed Central

    Fasehee, Hamidreza; Ghavamzadeh, Ardeshir; Alimoghaddam, Kamran; Ghaffari, Seyed-Hamidollah; Faghihi, Shahab

    2017-01-01

    Background: Disulfiram is oral aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) inhibitor that has been used in the treatment of alcoholism. Recent studies show that this drug has anticancer properties; however, its rapid degradation has limited its clinical application. Encapsulation of disulfiram polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) may improve its anticancer activities and protect rapid degradation of the drug. Materials and Methods: A poly (lactide-co-Glycolide) (PLGA) was developed for encapsulation of disulfiram and its delivery into breast cancer cells. Disulfiram encapsulated PLGA NPs were prepared by nanoprecipitation method and were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The loading and encapsulation efficiency of NPs were determined using UV-Visible spectroscopy. Cell cytotoxicity of free and encapsulated form of disulfiram is also determined using MTT assay. Results: Disulfiram encapsulated PLGA NPs had uniform size with 165 nm. Drug loading and entrapment efficiency were 5.35 ±0.03% and 58.85±1.01%. The results of MTT assay showed that disulfiram encapsulated PLGA NPs were more potent in induction of apoptosis compare to free disulfiram. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained in the present study it can be concluded that encapsulation of disulfiram with PLGA can protect its degradation in improve its cytotoxicity on breast cancer cells. PMID:28875004

  5. A Comparative Cytotoxic Evaluation of Disulfiram Encapsulated PLGA Nanoparticles on MCF-7 Cells.

    PubMed

    Fasehee, Hamidreza; Ghavamzadeh, Ardeshir; Alimoghaddam, Kamran; Ghaffari, Seyed-Hamidollah; Faghihi, Shahab

    2017-04-01

    Background: Disulfiram is oral aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) inhibitor that has been used in the treatment of alcoholism. Recent studies show that this drug has anticancer properties; however, its rapid degradation has limited its clinical application. Encapsulation of disulfiram polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) may improve its anticancer activities and protect rapid degradation of the drug. Materials and Methods: A poly (lactide-co-Glycolide) (PLGA) was developed for encapsulation of disulfiram and its delivery into breast cancer cells. Disulfiram encapsulated PLGA NPs were prepared by nanoprecipitation method and were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The loading and encapsulation efficiency of NPs were determined using UV-Visible spectroscopy. Cell cytotoxicity of free and encapsulated form of disulfiram is also determined using MTT assay. Results: Disulfiram encapsulated PLGA NPs had uniform size with 165 nm. Drug loading and entrapment efficiency were 5.35 ±0.03% and 58.85±1.01%. The results of MTT assay showed that disulfiram encapsulated PLGA NPs were more potent in induction of apoptosis compare to free disulfiram. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained in the present study it can be concluded that encapsulation of disulfiram with PLGA can protect its degradation in improve its cytotoxicity on breast cancer cells.

  6. Immune responses to vaccines delivered by encapsulation into and/or adsorption onto cationic lipid-PLGA hybrid nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Liu, Lanxia; Ma, Pingchuan; Wang, Hai; Zhang, Chao; Sun, Hongfan; Wang, Chun; Song, Cunxian; Leng, Xigang; Kong, Deling; Ma, Guilei

    2016-03-10

    In this study, we used cationic lipid-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) acid (PLGA) hybrid nanoparticles as antigen delivery carriers to investigate how antigen-loading methods affect antigen exposure to the immune system and evaluated the resulting antigen-specific immune responses. We formulated three classes of antigen adsorbed and/or encapsulated cationic lipid-PLGA hybrid nanoparticles; we designated antigen-adsorbed (out), antigen-encapsulated (in), and antigen-adsorbed/encapsulated (both) nanoparticles. Our results demonstrate significantly more efficient lysosomal escape and cross-presentation of antigen from dendritic cells (DCs) that were exposed to "both" and "in" nanoparticles. In vivo experiments further revealed that "both" nanoparticles significantly more effectively provided not only adequate initial antigen exposure but also long-term antigen persistence at the injection site. Data from flow cytometry and ELISA analyses demonstrated elevated in vivo immune responses from mice that were immunized with nanoparticles-delivered OVA when compared with free OVA. In addition, "in" and "both" nanoparticles elicited significantly higher antigen-specific immune response than "out" nanoparticles and free OVA. These results suggest that the location of antigen entrapment is an important factor in modulating the immune responses of antigens delivered by nanoparticles. Overall, we propose here a promising approach for the future design of vaccines using cationic lipid-PLGA nanoparticles. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Coupling system to a microsphere cavity

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Iltchenko, Vladimir (Inventor); Maleki, Lute (Inventor); Yao, Steve (Inventor); Wu, Chi (Inventor)

    2002-01-01

    A system of coupling optical energy in a waveguide mode, into a resonator that operates in a whispering gallery mode. A first part of the operation uses a fiber in its waveguide mode to couple information into a resonator e.g. a microsphere. The fiber is cleaved at an angle .PHI. which causes total internal reflection within the fiber. The energy in the fiber then forms an evanescent field and a microsphere is placed in the area of the evanescent field. If the microsphere resonance is resonant with energy in the fiber, then the information in the fiber is effectively transferred to the microsphere.

  8. Docetaxel-loaded polylactic acid-co-glycolic acid nanoparticles: formulation, physicochemical characterization and cytotoxicity studies.

    PubMed

    Pradhan, Roshan; Poudel, Bijay Kumar; Ramasamy, Thiruganesh; Choi, Han-Gon; Yong, Chul Soon; Kim, Jong Oh

    2013-08-01

    In the present study, we developed novel docetaxel (DTX)-loaded polylactic acid-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) using the combination of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and poloxamer 407, the anionic and non-ionic surfactants respectively for stabilization. The NPs were prepared by emulsification/solvent evaporation method. The combination of these surfactants at weight ratio of 1:0.5 was able to produce uniformly distributed small sized NPs and demonstrated the better stability of NP dispersion with high encapsulation efficiency (85.9 +/- 0.6%). The drug/polymer ratio and phase ratio were 2:10 and 1:10, respectively. The optimized formulation of DTX-loaded PLGA NPs had a particle size and polydispersity index of 104.2 +/- 1.5 nm and 0.152 +/- 0.006, respectively, which was further supported by TEM image. In vitro release study was carried out with dialysis membrane and showed 32% drug release in 192 h. When in vitro release data were fitted to Korsmeyer-Peppas model, the n value was 0.481, which suggested the drug was released by anomalous or non-Fickian diffusion. In addition, DTX-loaded PLGA NPs in 72 h, displayed approximately 75% cell viability reduction at 10 microg/ml DTX concentration, in MCF-7 cell lines, indicating sustained release from NPs. Therefore, our results demonstrated that incorporation of DTX into PLGA NPs could provide a novel effective nanocarrier for the treatment of cancer.

  9. Tissue-engineered vascular grafts composed of marine collagen and PLGA fibers using pulsatile perfusion bioreactors.

    PubMed

    Jeong, Sung In; Kim, So Yeon; Cho, Seong Kwan; Chong, Moo Sang; Kim, Kyung Soo; Kim, Hyuck; Lee, Sang Bong; Lee, Young Moo

    2007-02-01

    Novel tubular scaffolds of marine source collagen and PLGA fibers were fabricated by freeze drying and electrospinning processes for vascular grafts. The hybrid scaffolds, composed of a porous collagen matrix and a fibrous PLGA layer, had an average pore size of 150+/-50 microm. The electrospun fibrous PLGA layer on the surface of a porous tubular collagen scaffold improved the mechanical strength of the collagen scaffolds in both the dry and wet states. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs)- and endothelial cells (ECs)-cultured collagen/PLGA scaffolds exhibited mechanical properties similar to collagen/PLGA scaffolds unseeded with cells, even after culturing for 23 days. The effect of a mechanical stimulation on the proliferation and phenotype of SMCs and ECs, cultured on collagen/PLGA scaffolds, was evaluated. The pulsatile perfusion system enhanced the SMCs and ECs proliferation. In addition, a significant cell alignment in a direction radial to the distending direction was observed in tissues exposed to radial distention, which is similar to the phenomenon of native vessel tissues in vivo. On the other hand, cells in tissues engineered in the static condition were randomly aligned. Immunochemical analyses showed that the expressions of SM alpha-actin, SM myosin heavy chain, EC von Willebrand factor, and EC nitric oxide were upregulated in tissues engineered under a mechano-active condition, compared to vessel tissues engineered in the static condition. These results indicated that the co-culturing of SMCs and ECs, using collagen/PLGA hybrid scaffolds under a pulsatile perfusion system, leads to the enhancement of vascular EC development, as well as the retention of the differentiated cell phenotype.

  10. Hollow microspheres based on - Folic acid modified - Hydroxypropyl Cellulose and synthetic multi-responsive bio-copolymer for targeted cancer therapy: controlled release of daunorubicin, in vitro and in vivo studies.

    PubMed

    Metaxa, Aikaterini-Foteini; Efthimiadou, Eleni K; Boukos, Nikos; Fragogeorgi, Eirini A; Loudos, George; Kordas, George

    2014-12-01

    Conventional chemotherapy drugs such as anthracyclines show no specific activity. They destroy cancer cells but also and the healthy ones, and for that reason exhibit high toxicity. In order to alleviate the toxic effects of chemotherapeutic drugs, the administration dose is being minimized, while their reactivity against tumor cells is lessened. This problem can be overcome or at least reduced by using nanoscale drug delivery systems to target the pathogenic area. The present work deals with the synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of multi-responsive hollow microspheres coated with Hydroxypropyl Cellulose (HPC)-a biocompatible and thermosensitive polysaccharide-conjugated with folic acid as well promising drug vehicles for targeted cancer therapy. The synthetic route consists of two steps. In the first step, a single layer of sensitive copolymers is ((Methacrylic acid (MAA), N-(2-Hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide (HPMA) and N,N'-(disulfanediylbis(ethane-2,1-diyl))bis(2-methylacrylamide) (DSBMA)) fabricated on a sacrificial template of SiO2 and in the second step, an additional layer of the folic acid modified HPC coat the microspheres' surface. The layers fabrication is performed through a combination of distillation precipitation co-polymerization and chemical deposition method. The loading capacity (% LC) and encapsulation efficiency (% EE) percentages of the chemotherapeutic agent daunorubicin (DNR) in the fabricated microspheres were calculated through the standard curve methodology. In addition, the releasing properties of the resulting spheres are investigated, using the above mentioned methodology. It is worth mentioning that, spheres release the entrapped drug under combined conditions such acidic and reductive environment along with conventional hyperthermia. Cytotoxic activity of the synthesized spheres was investigated by using the well-established method of MTT assay in MCF-7 (breast cancer), HeLa (cervical cancer) and HEK 293 (Human

  11. Size effect of optical silica microsphere pressure sensors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiao, Xinbing; Hao, Ruirui; Pan, Qian; Zhao, Xinwei; Bai, Xue

    2018-07-01

    Two types of optical pressure sensors with silica microspheres are proposed. The size effect of optical silica microsphere pressure sensors is studied by using a single-wavelength laser beam and polarimeters. The silica microspheres with diameters of 1.0 μm, 1.5 μm and 2.0 μm are prepared on garnet substrates by a self-assembly method. The pressure and the optical properties of the silica microspheres are measured by a resistance strain sensor and Thorlabs Stokes polarimeters as a function of the external direct current (DC) voltage. The optical silica microsphere sensor in transmission mode is suitable for pressure measuring. The results show that the pressure increases, while the diameter of the silica microspheres decreases. The maximum internal pressure can reach up to 7.3 × 107 Pa when the diameter of the silica microspheres is 1.0 μm.

  12. Preparation and Characterization of Silica Aerogel Microspheres

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Qifeng; Wang, Hui; Sun, Luyi

    2017-01-01

    Silica aerogel microspheres based on alkali silica sol were synthesized using the emulsion method. The experimental results revealed that the silica aerogel microspheres (4–20 µm in diameter) were mesoporous solids with an average pore diameter ranging from 6 to 35 nm. The tapping densities and specific surface areas of the aerogel microspheres are in the range of 0.112–0.287 g/cm3 and 207.5–660.6 m2/g, respectively. The diameter of the silica aerogel microspheres could be tailored by varying the processing conditions including agitation rate, water/oil ratio, mass ratio of Span 80: Tween 80, and emulsifier concentration. The effects of these parameters on the morphology and textural properties of the synthesized silica aerogel microspheres were systematically investigated. Such silica aerogel microspheres can be used to prepare large-scale silica aerogels at an ambient pressure for applications in separation and high efficiency catalysis, which requires features of high porosity and easy fill and recovery. PMID:28772795

  13. Preparation and Characterization of Silica Aerogel Microspheres.

    PubMed

    Chen, Qifeng; Wang, Hui; Sun, Luyi

    2017-04-20

    Silica aerogel microspheres based on alkali silica sol were synthesized using the emulsion method. The experimental results revealed that the silica aerogel microspheres (4-20 µm in diameter) were mesoporous solids with an average pore diameter ranging from 6 to 35 nm. The tapping densities and specific surface areas of the aerogel microspheres are in the range of 0.112-0.287 g/cm³ and 207.5-660.6 m²/g, respectively. The diameter of the silica aerogel microspheres could be tailored by varying the processing conditions including agitation rate, water/oil ratio, mass ratio of Span 80: Tween 80, and emulsifier concentration. The effects of these parameters on the morphology and textural properties of the synthesized silica aerogel microspheres were systematically investigated. Such silica aerogel microspheres can be used to prepare large-scale silica aerogels at an ambient pressure for applications in separation and high efficiency catalysis, which requires features of high porosity and easy fill and recovery.

  14. Application of Carbon-Microsphere-Modified Electrodes for Electrochemistry of Hemoglobin and Electrocatalytic Sensing of Trichloroacetic Acid

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Wen-Cheng; Yan, Li-Jun; Shi, Fan; Niu, Xue-Liang; Huang, Guo-Lei; Zheng, Cai-Juan; Sun, Wei

    2015-01-01

    By using the hydrothermal method, carbon microspheres (CMS) were fabricated and used for electrode modification. The characteristics of CMS were investigated using various techniques. The biocompatible sensing platform was built by immobilizing hemoglobin (Hb) on the micrometer-sized CMS-modified electrode with a layer of chitosan membrane. On the cyclic voltammogram, a couple of quasi-reversible cathodic and anodic peaks appeared, showing that direct electrochemistry of Hb with the working electrode was achieved. The catalytic reduction peak currents of the bioelectrode to trichloroacetic acid was established in the linear range of 2.0~70.0 mmol·L−1 accompanied by a detection limit of 0.30 mmol·L−1 (3σ). The modified electrode displayed favorable sensitivity, good reproducibility and stability, which suggests that CMS is promising for fabricating third-generation bioelectrochemical sensors. PMID:26703621

  15. Ultrasonic assisted rapid synthesis of high uniform super-paramagnetic microspheres with core-shell structure and robust magneto-chromatic ability

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Wenyan; Chen, Jiahua; Wang, Wei; Lu, GongXuan; Hao, Lingyun; Ni, Yaru; Lu, Chunhua; Xu, Zhongzi

    2017-03-01

    Super-paramagnetic core-shell microspheres were synthesized by ultrasonic assisted routine under low ultrasonic irradiation powers. Compared with conventional routine, ultrasonic effect could not only improve the uniformity of the core-shell structure of Fe3O4@SiO2, but shorten the synthesis time in large scale. Owing to their hydrophilicity and high surface charge, the Fe3O4@SiO2 microspheres could be dispersed well in distilled water to form homogeneous colloidal suspension. The suspensions have favorable magneto-chromatic ability that they sensitively exhibit brilliant colorful ribbons by magnetic attraction. The colorful ribbons, which distributed along the magnetic lines, make morphology of the magnetic fields become "visible" to naked eyed. Those colorful ribbons originate from strong magnetic interaction between the microspheres and magnetic fields. Furthermore, the magneto-chromatic performance is reversible as the colorful ribbons vanished rapidly with the removing of magnetic fields. The silica layer effectively enhanced the acid resistance and surface-oxidation resistance of theFe3O4@SiO2 microspheres, so they could exhibit stable magnetic nature and robust magneto-chromatic property in acid environment.

  16. Integrated Cryogenic Experiment (ICE) microsphere investigation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Spradley, I.; Read, D.

    1989-01-01

    The main objective is to determine the performance of microsphere insulation in a 0-g environment and compare its performance to reference insulations such as multilayer insulation. The Lockheed Helium Extended-Life Dewar (HELD) is used to provide superfluid-helium cold sink for the experiment. The use of HELD allows the low-g dynamic properties of Passive Orbital Disconnect Struts (PODS) to be characterized and provides a flight demonstration of the PODS system. The thermal performance of microspheres in 1 and 0 g was predicted, a flight experiment was designed to determine microsphere thermal performance, and the interface was also designed between the experimental package and the shuttle through HELD and the Hitchhiker-M carrier. A single test cell was designed and fabricated. The cell was filled with uncoated glass microspheres and tested with a liquid-nitrogen cold sink. The data were found to agree with predictions of microsphere performance in 1 g.

  17. Hybrid scaffolds based on PLGA and silk for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Sheikh, Faheem A; Ju, Hyung Woo; Moon, Bo Mi; Lee, Ok Joo; Kim, Jung-Ho; Park, Hyun Jung; Kim, Dong Wook; Kim, Dong-Kyu; Jang, Ji Eun; Khang, Gilson; Park, Chan Hum

    2016-03-01

    Porous silk scaffolds, which are considered to be natural polymers, cannot be used alone because they have a long degradation rate, which makes it difficult for them to be replaced by the surrounding tissue. Scaffolds composed of synthetic polymers, such as PLGA, have a short degradation rate, lack hydrophilicity and their release of toxic by-products makes them difficult to use. The present investigations aimed to study hybrid scaffolds fabricated from PLGA, silk and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (Hap NPs) for optimized bone tissue engineering. The results from variable-pressure field emission scanning electron microscopy (VP-FE-SEM), equipped with EDS, confirmed that the fabricated scaffolds had a porous architecture, and the location of each component present in the scaffolds was examined. Contact angle measurements confirmed that the introduction of silk and HAp NPs helped to change the hydrophobic nature of PLGA to hydrophilic, which is the main constraint for PLGA used as a biomaterial. Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed thermal decomposition and different vibrations caused in functional groups of compounds used to fabricate the scaffolds, which reflected improvement in their mechanical properties. After culturing osteoblasts for 1, 7 and 14 days in the presence of scaffolds, their viability was checked by MTT assay. The fluorescent microscopy results revealed that the introduction of silk and HAp NPs had a favourable impact on the infiltration of osteoblasts. In vivo experiments were conducted by implanting scaffolds in rat calvariae for 4 weeks. Histological examinations and micro-CT scans from these experiments revealed beneficial attributes offered by silk fibroin and HAp NPs to PLGA-based scaffolds for bone induction. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  18. The nature of peptide interactions with acid end-group PLGAs and facile aqueous-based microencapsulation of therapeutic peptides.

    PubMed

    Sophocleous, Andreas M; Desai, Kashappa-Goud H; Mazzara, J Maxwell; Tong, Ling; Cheng, Ji-Xin; Olsen, Karl F; Schwendeman, Steven P

    2013-12-28

    An important poorly understood phenomenon in controlled-release depots involves the strong interaction between common cationic peptides and low Mw free acid end-group poly(lactic-co-glycolic acids) (PLGAs) used to achieve continuous peptide release kinetics. The kinetics of peptide sorption to PLGA was examined by incubating peptide solutions of 0.2-4mM octreotide or leuprolide acetate salts in a 0.1M HEPES buffer, pH7.4, with polymer particles or films at 4-37°C for 24h. The extent of absorption/loading of peptides in PLGA particles/films was assayed by two-phase extraction and amino acid analysis. Confocal Raman microspectroscopy, stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) and laser scanning confocal imaging, and microtome sectioning techniques were used to examine peptide penetration into the polymer phase. The release of sorbed peptide from leuprolide-PLGA particles was evaluated both in vitro (PBST+0.02% sodium azide, 37°C) and in vivo (male Sprague-Dawley rats). We found that when the PLGA-COOH chains are sufficiently mobilized, therapeutic peptides not only bind at the surface, a common belief to date, but also can be internalized and distributed throughout the polymer phase at physiological temperature forming a salt with low-molecular weight PLGA-COOH. Importantly, absorption of leuprolide into low MW PLGA-COOH particles yielded ~17 wt.% leuprolide loading in the polymer (i.e., ~70% of PLGA-COOH acids occupied), and the absorbed peptide was released from the polymer for >2 weeks in a controlled fashion in vitro and as indicated by sustained testosterone suppression in male Sprague-Dawley rats. This new approach, which bypasses the traditional encapsulation method and associated production cost, opens up the potential for facile production of low-cost controlled-release injectable depots for leuprolide and related peptides. © 2013.

  19. The nature of peptide interactions with acid end-group PLGAs and facile aqueous-based microencapsulation of therapeutic peptides

    PubMed Central

    Sophocleous, Andreas M.; Desai, Kashappa-Goud H.; Mazzara, J. Maxwell; Tong, Ling; Cheng, Ji-Xin; Olsen, Karl F.; Schwendeman, Steven P.

    2013-01-01

    An important poorly understood phenomenon in controlled-release depots involves the strong interaction between common cationic peptides and low Mw free acid end-group poly(lactic-co-glycolic acids) (PLGAs) used to achieve continuous peptide release kinetics. The kinetics of peptide sorption to PLGA was examined by incubating peptide solutions of 0.2-4 mM octreotide or leuprolide acetate salts in 0.1 M HEPES buffer, pH 7.4, with polymer particles or films at 4-37 °C for 24 h. The extent of absorption/loading of peptides in PLGA particles/films was assayed by two-phase extraction and amino acid analysis. Confocal Raman microspectroscopy and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) and laser scanning confocal imaging techniques were used to examine peptide penetration in the polymer phase. The release of sorbed peptide from leuprolide-PLGA particles was evaluated both in vitro (PBST + 0.02% sodium azide, 37 °C) and in vivo (male Sprague-Dawley rats). We found that when the PLGA-COOH chains are sufficiently mobilized, therapeutic peptides not only bind at the surface, a common belief to date, but can also internalized and distributed throughout the polymer phase at physiological temperature forming a salt with low-molecular weight PLGA-COOH. Importantly, absorption of leuprolide into low MW PLGA-COOH particles yielded ~17 wt% leuprolide loading in the polymer (i.e., ~70% of PLGA-COOH acids occupied), and the absorbed peptide was released from the polymer for > 2 weeks in a controlled fashion in vitro and as indicated by sustained testosterone suppression in male Sprague-Dawley rats. This new approach, which bypasses the traditional encapsulation method and associated production cost, opens up the potential for facile production of low-cost controlled-release injectable depots for leuprolide and related peptides. PMID:24021356

  20. In vitro degradation and release characteristics of spin coated thin films of PLGA with a “breath figure” morphology

    PubMed Central

    Ponnusamy, Thiruselvam; Lawson, Louise B.; Freytag, Lucy C.; Blake, Diane A.; Ayyala, Ramesh S.; John, Vijay T.

    2012-01-01

    Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) coatings on implant materials are widely used in controlled drug delivery applications. Typically, such coatings are made with non-porous films. Here, we have synthesized a thin PLGA film coating with a highly ordered microporous structure using a simple and inexpensive water templating “breath figure” technique. A single stage process combining spin coating and breath figure process was used to obtain drug incorporated porous thin films. The films were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) to observe the surface and bulk features of porosity and also, degradation pattern of the films. Moreover, the effect of addition of small amount of poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) into PLGA was characterized. SEM analysis revealed an ordered array of ~2 µm sized pores on the surface with the average film thickness measured to be 20 µm. The incorporation of hydrophilic poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) enhances pore structure uniformity and facilitates ingress of water into the structure. A five week in vitro degradation study showed a gradual deterioration of the breath figure pores. During the course of degradation, the surface pore structure deteriorates to initially flatten the surface. This is followed by the formation of new pinprick pores that eventually grow into a macroporous film prior to film breakup. Salicylic acid (highly water soluble) and Ibuprofen (sparingly water soluble) were chosen as model drug compounds to characterize release rates, which are higher in films of the breath figure morphology rather than in non-porous films. The results are of significance in the design of biodegradable films used as coatings to modulate delivery. PMID:23507805

  1. High-density, microsphere-based fiber optic DNA microarrays.

    PubMed

    Epstein, Jason R; Leung, Amy P K; Lee, Kyong Hoon; Walt, David R

    2003-05-01

    A high-density fiber optic DNA microarray has been developed consisting of oligonucleotide-functionalized, 3.1-microm-diameter microspheres randomly distributed on the etched face of an imaging fiber bundle. The fiber bundles are comprised of 6000-50000 fused optical fibers and each fiber terminates with an etched well. The microwell array is capable of housing complementary-sized microspheres, each containing thousands of copies of a unique oligonucleotide probe sequence. The array fabrication process results in random microsphere placement. Determining the position of microspheres in the random array requires an optical encoding scheme. This array platform provides many advantages over other array formats. The microsphere-stock suspension concentration added to the etched fiber can be controlled to provide inherent sensor redundancy. Examining identical microspheres has a beneficial effect on the signal-to-noise ratio. As other sequences of interest are discovered, new microsphere sensing elements can be added to existing microsphere pools and new arrays can be fabricated incorporating the new sequences without altering the existing detection capabilities. These microarrays contain the smallest feature sizes (3 microm) of any DNA array, allowing interrogation of extremely small sample volumes. Reducing the feature size results in higher local target molecule concentrations, creating rapid and highly sensitive assays. The microsphere array platform is also flexible in its applications; research has included DNA-protein interaction profiles, microbial strain differentiation, and non-labeled target interrogation with molecular beacons. Fiber optic microsphere-based DNA microarrays have a simple fabrication protocol enabling their expansion into other applications, such as single cell-based assays.

  2. Impact of water chemistry on surface charge and aggregation of polystyrene microspheres suspensions.

    PubMed

    Lu, Songhua; Zhu, Kairuo; Song, Wencheng; Song, Gang; Chen, Diyun; Hayat, Tasawar; Alharbi, Njud S; Chen, Changlun; Sun, Yubing

    2018-07-15

    The discharge of microplastics into aquatic environment poses the potential threat to the hydrocoles and human health. The fate and transport of microplastics in aqueous solutions are significantly influenced by water chemistry. In this study, the effect of water chemistry (i.e., pH, foreign salts and humic acid) on the surface charge and aggregation of polystyrene microsphere in aqueous solutions was conducted by batch, zeta potentials, hydrodynamic diameters, FT-IR and XPS analysis. Compared to Na + and K + , the lower negative zeta potentials and larger hydrodynamic diameters of polystyrene microspheres after introduction of Mg 2+ were observed within a wide range of pH (2.0-11.0) and ionic strength (IS, 0.01-500mmol/L). No effect of Cl - , HCO 3 - and SO 4 2- on the zeta potentials and hydrodynamic diameters of polystyrene microspheres was observed at low IS concentrations (<5mmol/L), whereas the zeta potentials and hydrodynamic diameters of polystyrene microspheres after addition of SO 4 2- were higher than that of Cl - and HCO 3 - at high IS concentrations (>10mmol/L). The zeta potentials of polystyrene microspheres after HA addition were decreased at pH2.0-11.0, whereas the lower hydrodynamic diameters were observed at pH<4.0. According to FT-IR and XPS analysis, the change in surface properties of polystyrene microspheres after addition of hydrated Mg 2+ and HA was attributed to surface electrostatic and/or steric repulsions. These investigations are crucial for understanding the effect of water chemistry on colloidal stability of microplastics in aquatic environment. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Validation of fluorescent-labeled microspheres for measurement of relative blood flow in severely injured lungs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hubler, M.; Souders, J. E.; Shade, E. D.; Hlastala, M. P.; Polissar, N. L.; Glenny, R. W.

    1999-01-01

    The aim of the study was to validate a nonradioactive method for relative blood flow measurements in severely injured lungs that avoids labor-intensive tissue processing. The use of fluorescent-labeled microspheres was compared with the standard radiolabeled-microsphere method. In seven sheep, lung injury was established by using oleic acid. Five pairs of radio- and fluorescent-labeled microspheres were injected before and after established lung injury. Across all animals, 175 pieces were selected randomly. The radioactivity of each piece was determined by using a scintillation counter. The fluorescent dye was extracted from each piece with a solvent without digestion or filtering. The fluorescence was determined with an automated fluorescent spectrophotometer. Perfusion was calculated for each piece from both the radioactivity and fluorescence and volume normalized. Correlations between flow determined by the two methods were in the range from 0.987 +/- 0.007 (SD) to 0.991 +/- 0.002 (SD) after 9 days of soaking. Thus the fluorescent microsphere technique is a valuable tool for investigating regional perfusion in severely injured lungs and can replace radioactivity.

  4. Streptomycin-loaded PLGA-alginate nanoparticles: preparation, characterization, and assessment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Asadi, Asadollah

    2014-04-01

    The aim of this study was to formulate and characterize streptomycin-loaded PLGA-alginate nanoparticles for their potential therapeutic use in Salmonella subsp. enterica ATCC 14028 infections. The streptomycin nanoparticle was prepared by solvent diffusion method, and the other properties such as size, zeta potential, loading efficacy, release kinetics, and antimicrobial strength were evaluated. The survey shows that nanoparticles may serve as a carrier of streptomycin and may provide localized antibacterial activity in the treatment of Salmonellosis. Electron microscopy showed spherical particles with indentations. The average size of the nanoparticles was 90 nm. At pH 7.2, the release kinetics of streptomycin from the nanoparticles was successfully illustrated as an initial burst defined by a first order equation that after this stage, it has a drastic tendency to obtain steady state. Nevertheless, nanoparticles showed loading efficacy nearly about 70-75 %. In addition, the tendency of concentration of streptomycin released from nanoparticles to reach antibacterial activity was similar to that of free streptomycin against PLGA-alginate, but it had threefold more antimicrobial strength in comparison with free streptomycin. This work shows the potential use of streptomycin-loaded PLGA-alginate nanoparticles and its capability.

  5. Superparamagnetic PLGA-iron oxide microcapsules for dual-modality US/MR imaging and high intensity focused US breast cancer ablation.

    PubMed

    Sun, Yang; Zheng, Yuanyi; Ran, Haitao; Zhou, Yang; Shen, Hongxia; Chen, Yu; Chen, Hangrong; Krupka, Tianyi M; Li, Ao; Li, Pan; Wang, Zhibiao; Wang, Zhigang

    2012-08-01

    Organic/inorganic, hybrid, multifunctional, material-based platforms combine the merits of diverse functionalities of inorganic nanoparticles and the excellent biocompatibility of organic systems. In this work, superparamagnetic poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcapsules (Fe(3)O(4)/PLGA) have been developed, as a proof-of-concept, for the application in ultrasound/magnetic resonance dual-modality biological imaging and enhancing the therapeutic efficiency of high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) breast cancer surgery in vitro and in vivo. Hydrophobic Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles were successfully integrated into PLGA microcapsules by a typical double emulsion evaporation process. In this process, highly dispersed superparamagnetic Fe(3)O(4)/PLGA composite microcapsules with well-defined spherical morphology were obtained with an average diameter of 885.6 nm. The potential of these microcapsules as dual contrast agents for ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging were demonstrated in vitro and, also, preliminarily in vivo. Meanwhile, the prepared superparamagnetic composite microcapsules were administrated into rabbits bearing breast cancer model for the evaluation of the in vivo HIFU synergistic ablation efficiency caused by the introduction of such microcapsules. Our results showed that the employment of the composite microcapsules could efficiently enhance ultrasound imaging of cancer, and greatly enhance the HIFU ablation of breast cancer in rabbits. In addition, pathological examination was systematically performed to detect the structural changes of the target tissue caused by HIFU ablation. This finding demonstrated that successful introduction of these superparamagnetic microcapsules into HIFU cancer surgery provided an alternative strategy for the highly efficient imaging-guided non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy of cancer. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. PLGA-PEG-PLGA microspheres as a delivery vehicle for antisense oligonucleotides to CTGF: Implications on post-surgical peritoneal adhesion prevention

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azeke, John Imuetinyan-Jesu, Jr.

    , while both cytokines are over-expressed within the first day following injury, CTGF protein levels could not be correlated with observed adhesion development. In addition, we synthesized linear triblock copolymers of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), two of the most widely studied biodegradable polymers in use today. Bulk gels and microparticles of the copolymers were then evaluated for gelling behavior, temperature stability, and drug loading and release kinetics in order assess their suitability as potential carriers of antisense therapeutics. A novel approach to affecting the antisense oligonucleotide release kinetics by varying the relative concentrations of co-encapsulated cationic lipid transfection agents was also presented.

  7. Metronidazole loaded pectin microspheres for colon targeting.

    PubMed

    Vaidya, Ankur; Jain, Aviral; Khare, Piush; Agrawal, Ram K; Jain, Sanjay K

    2009-11-01

    A multiparticulate system having pH-sensitive property and specific enzyme biodegradability for colon-targeted delivery of metronidazole was developed. Pectin microspheres were prepared using emulsion-dehydration technique. These microspheres were coated with Eudragit(R) S-100 using oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method. The SEM was used to characterize the surface of these microspheres and a distinct coating over microspheres could be seen. The in vitro drug release studies exhibited no drug release at gastric pH, however continuous release of drug was observed from the formulation at colonic pH. Further, the release of drug from formulation was found to be higher in the presence of rat caecal contents, indicating the effect of colonic enzymes on the pectin microspheres. The in vivo studies were also performed by assessing the drug concentration in various parts of the GIT at different time intervals which exhibited the potentiality of formulation for colon targeting. Hence, it can be concluded that Eudragit coated pectin microspheres can be used for the colon specific delivery of drug. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association

  8. Lanthanide-Containing Polymer Microspheres by Multiple-Stage Dispersion Polymerization for Highly Multiplexed Bioassays

    PubMed Central

    Abdelrahman, Ahmed I.; Dai, Sheng; Thickett, Stuart C.; Ornatsky, Olga; Bandura, Dmitry; Baranov, Vladimir; Winnik, Mitchell A.

    2009-01-01

    We describe the synthesis and characterization of metal-encoded polystyrene microspheres by multiple-stage dispersion polymerization with diameters on the order of 2 µm and a very narrow size distribution. Different lanthanides were loaded into these microspheres through the addition of a mixture of LnCl3 salts and excess acrylic acid or acetoacetylethyl methacrylate (AAEM) dissolved in ethanol to the reaction after about 10% conversion of styrene, i.e., well after the particle nucleation stage was complete. Individual microspheres contain ca. 106 – 108 chelated lanthanide ions, of either a single element or a mixture of elements. These microspheres were characterized one-by-one utilizing a novel mass cytometer with an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) ionization source and time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry detection. Microspheres containing a range of different metals at different levels of concentration were synthesized to meet the requirements of binary encoding and enumeration encoding protocols. With four different metals at five levels of concentration, we could achieve a variability of 624, and the strategy we report should allow one to obtain much larger variability. To demonstrate the usefulness of element-encoded beads for highly multiplexed immunoassays, we carried out a proof-of-principle model bioassay involving conjugation of mouse IgG to the surface of La and Tm containing particles, and its detection by an anti-mouse IgG bearing a metal-chelating polymer with Pr. PMID:19807075

  9. Lanthanide-containing polymer microspheres by multiple-stage dispersion polymerization for highly multiplexed bioassays.

    PubMed

    Abdelrahman, Ahmed I; Dai, Sheng; Thickett, Stuart C; Ornatsky, Olga; Bandura, Dmitry; Baranov, Vladimir; Winnik, Mitchell A

    2009-10-28

    We describe the synthesis and characterization of metal-encoded polystyrene microspheres by multiple-stage dispersion polymerization with diameters on the order of 2 mum and a very narrow size distribution. Different lanthanides were loaded into these microspheres through the addition of a mixture of lanthanide salts (LnCl(3)) and excess acrylic acid (AA) or acetoacetylethyl methacrylate (AAEM) dissolved in ethanol to the reaction after about 10% conversion of styrene, that is, well after the particle nucleation stage was complete. Individual microspheres contain ca. 10(6)-10(8) chelated lanthanide ions, of either a single element or a mixture of elements. These microspheres were characterized one-by-one utilizing a novel mass cytometer with an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) ionization source and time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry detection. Microspheres containing a range of different metals at different levels of concentration were synthesized to meet the requirements of binary encoding and enumeration encoding protocols. With four different metals at five levels of concentration, we could achieve a variability of 624, and the strategy we report should allow one to obtain much larger variability. To demonstrate the usefulness of element-encoded beads for highly multiplexed immunoassays, we carried out a proof-of-principle model bioassay involving conjugation of mouse IgG to the surface of La and Tm containing particles and its detection by an antimouse IgG bearing a metal-chelating polymer with Pr.

  10. Biodegradable Nanoparticles of mPEG-PLGA-PLL Triblock Copolymers as Novel Non-Viral Vectors for Improving siRNA Delivery and Gene Silencing

    PubMed Central

    Du, Jing; Sun, Ying; Shi, Qiu-Sheng; Liu, Pei-Feng; Zhu, Ming-Jie; Wang, Chun-Hui; Du, Lian-Fang; Duan, You-Rong

    2012-01-01

    Degradation of mRNA by RNA interference is one of the most powerful and specific mechanisms for gene silencing. However, insufficient cellular uptake and poor stability have limited its usefulness. Here, we report efficient delivery of siRNA via the use of biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) made from monomethoxypoly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-poly-l-lysine (mPEG-PLGA-PLL) triblock copolymers. Various physicochemical properties of mPEG-PLGA-PLL NPs, including morphology, size, surface charge, siRNA encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro release profile of siRNA from NPs, were characterized by scanning electron microscope, particle size and zeta potential analyzer, and high performance liquid chromatography. The levels of siRNA uptake and targeted gene inhibition were detected in human lung cancer SPC-A1-GFP cells stably expressing green fluorescent protein. Examination of the cultured SPC-A1-GFP cells with fluorescent microscope and flow cytometry showed NPs loading Cy3-labeled siRNA had much higher intracellular siRNA delivery efficiencies than siRNA alone and Lipofectamine-siRNA complexes. The gene silencing efficiency of mPEG-PLGA-PLL NPs was higher than that of commercially available transfecting agent Lipofectamine while showing no cytotoxicity. Thus, the current study demonstrates that biodegradable NPs of mPEG-PLGA-PLL triblock copolymers can be potentially applied as novel non-viral vectors for improving siRNA delivery and gene silencing. PMID:22312268

  11. Diazeniumdiolate-doped poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-based nitric oxide releasing films as antibiofilm coatings.

    PubMed

    Cai, Wenyi; Wu, Jianfeng; Xi, Chuanwu; Meyerhoff, Mark E

    2012-11-01

    Nitric oxide (NO) releasing films with a bilayer configuration are fabricated by doping dibutyhexyldiamine diazeniumdiolate (DBHD/N2O2) in a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) layer and further encapsulating this base layer with a silicone rubber top coating. By incorporating pH sensitive dyes within the films, pH changes in the PLGA layer are visualized and correlated with the NO release profiles (flux vs. time). It is demonstrated that PLGA acts as both a promoter and controller of NO release from the coating by providing protons through its intrinsic acid residues (both end groups and monomeric acid impurities) and hydrolysis products (lactic acid and glycolic acid). Control of the pH changes within the PLGA layer can be achieved by adjusting the ratio of DBHD/N2O2 and utilizing PLGAs with different hydrolysis rates. Coatings with a variety of NO release profiles are prepared with lifetimes of up to 15 d at room temperature (23 °C) and 10 d at 37 °C. When incubated in a CDC flow bioreactor for a one week period at RT or 37 °C, all the NO releasing films exhibit considerable antibiofilm properties against gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Escherichia coli. In particular, compared to the silicone rubber surface alone, an NO releasing film with a base layer of 30 wt% DBHD/N2O2 mixed with poly(lactic acid) exhibits an ∼98.4% reduction in biofilm biomass of S. aureus and ∼99.9% reduction for E. coli at 37 °C. The new diazeniumdiolate-doped PLGA-based NO releasing coatings are expected to be useful antibiofilm coatings for a variety of indwelling biomedical devices (e.g., catheters). Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Folic acid conjugation improves the bioavailability and chemosensitizing efficacy of curcumin-encapsulated PLGA-PEG nanoparticles towards paclitaxel chemotherapy.

    PubMed

    Thulasidasan, Arun Kumar T; Retnakumari, Archana P; Shankar, Mohan; Vijayakurup, Vinod; Anwar, Shabna; Thankachan, Sanu; Pillai, Kavya S; Pillai, Jisha J; Nandan, C Devika; Alex, Vijai V; Chirayil, Teena Jacob; Sundaram, Sankar; Kumar, Gopalakrishnapillai Sankaramangalam Vinod; Anto, Ruby John

    2017-12-08

    Nanoencapsulation has emerged as a novel strategy to enhance the pharmacokinetic and therapeutic potential of conventional drugs. Recent studies from our lab have established the efficacy of curcumin in sensitizing cervical cancer cells and breast cancer cells towards paclitaxel and 5-FU chemotherapy respectively. Factors that hinder the clinical use of curcumin as a sensitizer or therapeutic agent include its poor bioavailability and retention time. Earlier reports of improvement in bioavailability and retention of drugs upon nanoencapsulation have motivated us in developing various nanoformulations of curcumin, which were found to exhibit significant enhancement in bioavailability and retention time as assessed by our previous in vitro studies. Among the various formulations tested, curcumin-entrapped in PLGA-PEG nanoparticles conjugated to folic acid (PPF-curcumin) displayed maximum cell death. In the present study, we have demonstrated the efficacy of this formulation in augmenting the bioavailability and retention time of curcumin, in vivo , in Swiss albino mice. Further, the acute and chronic toxicity studies proved that the formulation is pharmacologically safe. We have also evaluated its potential in chemosensitizing cervical cancer cells to paclitaxel and have verified the results using cervical cancer xenograft model in NOD-SCID mice. Folic acid conjugation significantly enhanced the efficacy of curcumin in down-regulating various survival signals induced by paclitaxel in cervical cancer cells and have considerably improved its potential in inhibiting the tumor growth of cervical cancer xenografts. The non-toxic nature coupled with improved chemosensitization potential makes PPF-curcumin a promising candidate formulation for clinical trials.

  13. Folic acid conjugation improves the bioavailability and chemosensitizing efficacy of curcumin-encapsulated PLGA-PEG nanoparticles towards paclitaxel chemotherapy

    PubMed Central

    Shankar, Mohan; Vijayakurup, Vinod; Anwar, Shabna; Thankachan, Sanu; Pillai, Kavya S.; Pillai, Jisha J.; Nandan, C. Devika; Alex, Vijai V.; Chirayil, Teena Jacob; Sundaram, Sankar; Kumar, Gopalakrishnapillai Sankaramangalam Vinod; Anto, Ruby John

    2017-01-01

    Nanoencapsulation has emerged as a novel strategy to enhance the pharmacokinetic and therapeutic potential of conventional drugs. Recent studies from our lab have established the efficacy of curcumin in sensitizing cervical cancer cells and breast cancer cells towards paclitaxel and 5-FU chemotherapy respectively. Factors that hinder the clinical use of curcumin as a sensitizer or therapeutic agent include its poor bioavailability and retention time. Earlier reports of improvement in bioavailability and retention of drugs upon nanoencapsulation have motivated us in developing various nanoformulations of curcumin, which were found to exhibit significant enhancement in bioavailability and retention time as assessed by our previous in vitro studies. Among the various formulations tested, curcumin-entrapped in PLGA-PEG nanoparticles conjugated to folic acid (PPF-curcumin) displayed maximum cell death. In the present study, we have demonstrated the efficacy of this formulation in augmenting the bioavailability and retention time of curcumin, in vivo, in Swiss albino mice. Further, the acute and chronic toxicity studies proved that the formulation is pharmacologically safe. We have also evaluated its potential in chemosensitizing cervical cancer cells to paclitaxel and have verified the results using cervical cancer xenograft model in NOD-SCID mice. Folic acid conjugation significantly enhanced the efficacy of curcumin in down-regulating various survival signals induced by paclitaxel in cervical cancer cells and have considerably improved its potential in inhibiting the tumor growth of cervical cancer xenografts. The non-toxic nature coupled with improved chemosensitization potential makes PPF-curcumin a promising candidate formulation for clinical trials. PMID:29296172

  14. PLGA-Curcumin Attenuates Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia and Inhibits Spinal CaMKIIα

    PubMed Central

    Hu, Xiaoyu; Huang, Fang; Szymusiak, Magdalena; Tian, Xuebi; Liu, Ying; Wang, Zaijie Jim

    2016-01-01

    Opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is one of the major problems associated with prolonged use of opioids for the treatment of chronic pain. Effective treatment for OIH is lacking. In this study, we examined the efficacy and preliminary mechanism of curcumin in attenuating OIH. We employed a newly developed PLGA-curcumin nanoformulation (PLGA-curcumin) in order to improve the solubility of curcumin, which has been a major obstacle in properly characterizing curcumin’s mechanism of action and efficacy. We found that curcumin administered intrathecally or orally significantly attenuated hyperalgesia in mice with morphine-induced OIH. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the effects of curcumin on OIH correlated with the suppression of chronic morphine-induced CaMKIIα activation in the superficial laminae of the spinal dorsal horn. These data suggest that PLGA-curcumin may reverse OIH possibly by inhibiting CaMKIIα and its downstream signaling. PMID:26744842

  15. Method for introduction of gases into microspheres

    DOEpatents

    Hendricks, Charles D.; Koo, Jackson C.; Rosencwaig, Allan

    1981-01-01

    A method for producing small hollow glass spheres filled with a gas by introduction of the gas during formation of the hollow glass spheres. Hollow glass microspheres having a diameter up to about 500.mu. with both thin walls (0.5 to 4.mu.) and thick walls (5 to 20.mu.) that contain various fill gases, such as Ar, Kr, Xe, Br, DT, H.sub.2, D.sub.2, He, N.sub.2, Ne, CO.sub.2, etc. in the interior thereof, can be produced by the diffusion of the fill gas or gases into the microsphere during the formation thereof from a liquid droplet of glass-forming solution. This is accomplished by filling at least a portion of the multiple-zone drop-furnace used in producing hollow microspheres with the gas or gases of interest, and then taking advantage of the high rate of gaseous diffusion of the fill gas through the wall of the gel membrane before it transforms into a glass microsphere as it is processed in the multiple-zone furnace. Almost any gas can be introduced into the inner cavity of a glass microsphere by this method during the formation of the microsphere provided that the gas is diffused into the gel membrane or microsphere prior to its transformation into glass. The process of this invention provides a significant savings of time and related expense of filling glass microspheres with various gases. For example, the time for filling a glass microballoon with 1 atmosphere of DT is reduced from about two hours to a few seconds.

  16. Intestinal absorption of PLAGA microspheres in the rat.

    PubMed

    Damgé, C; Aprahamian, M; Marchais, H; Benoit, J P; Pinget, M

    1996-12-01

    Rhodamine B-labelled poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLAGA) microspheres of 2 different sizes, 1-5 microns and 5-10 microns, were administered as a single dose (1.44 x 10(9) and 1.83 x 10(8) particles, respectively) into the ileal lumen of adult rats. The content of rhodamine in the mesenteric vein and ileal lumen was analysed periodically from 10 min to 48 h as well as the distribution of microspheres in the intestinal mucosa and various other tissues. The concentration of rhodamine decreased progressively in the intestinal lumen and was negligible after 24 h. The number of microspheres in the mesenteric vein increased rapidly and reached a maximum after 4 h whatever the size of the particles. It then decreased progressively, but more rapidly with microspheres > 5 microns than with microspheres < 5 microns. The absorption efficiency was low for the former batch (about 0.11% of the administered dose) and higher for the latter (about 12.7%). The intraileal administration of free rhodamine B was followed by intense labelling of the epithelial cells and basement membranes in mesenteric lymph nodes, spleen, kidney and liver. PLAGA microspheres mainly crossed the intestinal mucosa at the site of Peyer's patches where microspheres of < 5 microns appeared after 3 h. Microspheres > 5 microns were retained in the ileal lumen. A few small microspheres were occasionally observed in the epithelial cells. Only the smallest particles were recovered in the liver, lymph nodes and spleen while basement membranes were always labelled. It is concluded that PLAGA microspheres could be useful for the oral delivery of antigens if their size is between 1 and 5 microns.

  17. Microsphere based improved sunscreen formulation of ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate.

    PubMed

    Gogna, Deepak; Jain, Sunil K; Yadav, Awesh K; Agrawal, G P

    2007-04-01

    Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres of ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (EHM) were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method to improve its photostability and effectiveness as sunscreening agent. Process parameters like stirring speed and aqueous polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) concentration were analyzed in order to optimize the formulations. Shape and surface morphology of the microspheres were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Particle size of the microspheres was determined using laser diffraction particle size analyzer. The PMMA microspheres of EHM were incorporated in water-removable cream base. The in vitro drug release of EHM in pH 7.4 was performed using dialysis membrane. Thin layer chromatography was performed to determine photostability of EHM inside the microspheres. The formulations were evaluated for sun protection factor (SPF) and minimum erythema dose (MED) in albino rats. Cream base formulation containing microspheres prepared using EHM:PMMA in ratio of 1:3 (C(3)) showed slowest drug (EHM) release and those prepared with EHM: PMMA in ratio of 1:1 showed fastest release. The cream base formulations containing EHM loaded microspheres had shown better SPF (more than 16.0) as compared to formulation C(d) that contained 3% free EHM as sunscreen agent and showed SPF 4.66. These studies revealed that the incorporation of EHM loaded PMMA microspheres into cream base had greatly increased the efficacy of sunscreen formulation approximately four times. Further, photostability was also shown to be improved in PMMA microspheres.

  18. Controlled drug delivery for glaucoma therapy using montmorillonite/Eudragit microspheres as an ion-exchange carrier.

    PubMed

    Tian, Shuangyan; Li, Juan; Tao, Qi; Zhao, Yawen; Lv, Zhufen; Yang, Fan; Duan, Haoyun; Chen, Yanzhong; Zhou, Qingjun; Hou, Dongzhi

    2018-01-01

    Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can lead to loss of vision. Unfortunately, effective treatments are limited by poor bioavailability of antiglaucoma medicine due to short residence time on the preocular surface. To solve this, we successfully prepared novel controlled-release ion-exchange microparticles to deliver betaxolol hydrochloride (BH). Montmorillonite/BH complex (Mt-BH) was prepared by acidification-intercalation, and this complex was encapsulated in microspheres (Mt-BH encapsulated microspheres [BMEMs]) by oil-in-oil emulsion-solvent evaporation method. The BH loaded into ion-exchange Mt was 47.45%±0.54%. After the encapsulation of Mt-BH into Eudragit microspheres, the encapsulation efficiency of BH into Eudragit microspheres was 94.35%±1.01% and BH loaded into Eudragit microspheres was 14.31%±0.47%. Both Fourier transform infrared spectra and X-ray diffraction patterns indicated that BH was successfully intercalated into acid-Mt to form Mt-BH and then Mt-BH was encapsulated into Eudragit microspheres to obtain BMEMs. Interestingly, in vitro release duration of the prepared BMEMs was extended to 12 hours, which is longer than both of the BH solution (2.5 hours) and the conventional BH microspheres (5 hours). Moreover, BMEM exhibited lower toxicity than that of BH solution as shown by the results of cytotoxicity tests, chorioallantoic membrane-trypan blue staining, and Draize rabbit eye test. In addition, both in vivo and in vitro preocular retention capacity study of BMEMs showed a prolonged retention time. The pharmacodynamics showed that BMEMs could extend the drug duration of action. The developed BMEMs have the potential to be further applied as ocular drug delivery systems for the treatment of glaucoma.

  19. Insulin delivery through nasal route using thiolated microspheres.

    PubMed

    Nema, Tarang; Jain, Ashish; Jain, Aviral; Shilpi, Satish; Gulbake, Arvind; Hurkat, Pooja; Jain, Sanjay K

    2013-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of developed thiolated microspheres for insulin delivery through nasal route. In the present study, cysteine was immobilized on carbopol using EDAC. A total of 269.93 µmol free thiol groups per gram polymer were determined. The prepared nonthiolated and thiolated microspheres were studied for particle shape, size, drug content, swellability, mucoadhesion and in vitro insulin release. The thiolated microspheres exhibited higher mucoadhesion due to formation of covalent bonds via disulfide bridges with the mucus gel layer. Drug permeation through goat nasal mucosa of nonthiolated and thiolated microspheres were found as 52.62 ± 2.4% and 78.85 ± 3.1% in 6 h, respectively. Thiolated microspheres bearing insulin showed better reduction in blood glucose level (BGL) in comparison to nonthiolated microspheres as 31.23 ± 2.12% and 75.25 ± 0.93% blood glucose of initial BGL were observed at 6 h after nasal delivery of thiolated and nonthiolated microspheres in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rabbits.

  20. Hierarchically assembled Au microspheres and sea urchin-like architectures: formation mechanism and SERS study.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xiansong; Yang, Da-Peng; Huang, Peng; Li, Min; Li, Chao; Chen, Di; Cui, Daxiang

    2012-12-21

    The hierarchically assembled Au microspheres/sea urchin-like structures have been synthesized in aqueous solution at room temperature with and without proteins (bovine serum albumin, BSA) as mediators. The average diameter of an individual Au microsphere is 300-600 nm, which is composed of some compact nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 15 nm. Meanwhile, the sea urchin-like Au architecture exhibits an average diameter of 600-800 nm, which is made up of some nanopricks with an average length of 100-200 nm. These products are characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM). It is found that the BSA and ascorbic acid (AA) have great effects on the morphology of the resulting products. Two different growth mechanisms are proposed. The study on surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activities is also carried out between Au microspheres and Au sea urchin-like architectures. It is found that Au urchin-like architectures possess much higher SERS activity than the Au microspheres. Our work may shed light on the design and synthesis of hierarchically self-assembled 3D micro/nano-architectures for SERS, catalysis and biosensors.