Characterization of Chitosan/Alginate Self-Assembled Nanoparticles as a Protein Carrier

• Published in: Journal of dispersion science and technology 2011-04, Vol.32 (4), p.576-582
• Main Authors: Zohri, Maryam, Nomani, Alireza, Gazori, Tarane, Haririan, Ismaeil, Mirdamadi, Seyed Saeed, Sadjadi, Seyed Kazem, Ehsani, Mohammad Reza
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alginate; Alginates; BSA; characterization; Chemistry; Chitosan; Colloidal state and disperse state; Computational efficiency; Computing time; Entrapment; Exact sciences and technology; Formulations; General and physical chemistry; Mathematical models; Nanoparticles; Nanostructure; Physical and chemical studies. Granulometry. Electrokinetic phenomena; polymer ratio; Polymers; Proteins; Ratios; self-assembled chitosan/alginate nanoparticles; Self-assembly; Serum albumin; Zeta potential
• ISSN: 0193-2691; 1532-2351
• DOI: 10.1080/01932691003757314

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the polymeric ratios on the characteristics of chitosan/alginate (ch/alg) self-assembled nanoparticles and their potential as protein delivery vehicle. The nanoparticles were prepared using proper mixing of polymers in presence or absence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a protein model. Three formulations of nanoparticles comprising ch/alg ratios of 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2 were prepared. Size, shape and zeta potential of the formulations were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nanosizer instruments. FTIR, and differential scanning calorimetery (DSC) studies were performed to investigate polymer-polymer or polymer-protein interactions. Release profiles and entrapment efficiencies of the nanoparticles were determined by calorimetric technique using appropriate techniques. Entrapment efficiency was 70% for ch/alg ratio of 1:1, 65% for 1:2, and 60% for 2:1. The z-average size of the nanoparticles were 403, 205, and 318 nm for ch/alg ratios of 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2, respectively. Average zeta potentials were −47, +15, −25 mV for 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2 as well. Considering the favorable features required for protein delivery systems, ch/alg (1:1) due to its smallest size, highest loading, and most homogenous shape was regarded as the best ratio.