Abstract
Context: We previously designed, developed and characterized a novel microencapsulated formulation as a platform for the targeted delivery of Probucol (PB) in an animal model of Type 2 Diabetes. Objective: The objective of this study is to optimize this platform by incorporating Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), a bile acid with good permeation-enhancing properties, and examine its effect in vitro. Using sodium alginate (SA), we prepared PB-SA (control) and PB-CDCA-SA (test) microcapsules. Results and discussion: CDCA resulted in better structural and surface characteristics, uniform morphology, and stable chemical and thermal profiles, while size and rheological parameters remained unchanged. PB-CDCA-SA microcapsules showed good excipients’ compatibilities, as evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy studies. CDCA reduced microcapsule swelling at pH 7.8 at both 37 °C and 25 °C and improved PB-release. Conclusion: CDCA improved the characteristics and release properties of PB-microcapsules and may have potential in the targeted oral delivery of PB.
Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the CHIRI and Pharmacology Technical Laboratory at Curtin University, and the Curtin-seeding grant for their support and also acknowledge the use of equipment, scientific and technical assistance of the Curtin University Electron Microscope Facility, which has been partially funded by the University, State and Commonwealth Governments.
Declaration of interest
The authors report that they have no conflicts of interest.