Synthesis and characterization of DLPLG nanoparticles for controlled delivery of water-soluble vitamins

Abstract

Biodegradable polymers have become the materials of choice for a variety of biomaterials applications. In particular poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (DLPLG) nanoparticles have been studied for controlled released drug delivery. In this paper we are describing new method of obtaining the system for targeted and controlled delivery of the folic acid in the body. Folic acid (pteroyl-L-glutamic acid, vitamin B9) is a water-soluble vitamin essential in the human diet. It is an important cofactor in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, of dividing cells, particularly during pregnancy and infancy when there is an increase in cell division and growth. The DLPLG particles were obtained by chemical solvent/non-solvent method with PVP as a surfactant. The obtained DLPLG particles are non-agglomerated, uniform and with particles size in the submicron scale. The folic acid has been encapsulated into the polymer matrix by means of homogenization of the water and organic phases. The concentration of the folic acid in the water has been varied in order to obtain nanoparticles with different ratio of DLPLG and folic acid. The samples were characterized by Infrared Spectroscopy (IR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).