Ethylcellulose microparticles enhance 3,3′-diindolylmethane anti-hypernociceptive action in an animal model of acute inflammatory pain

Abstract

Aim

The present work aimed at the DIM-loaded microparticles development and anti-hypernociceptive action evaluation.

Method

The formulations were prepared by O/W solvent emulsion-evaporation method and characterised by particle diameter, content and DIM encapsulation efficiency, drug release profile, thermal behaviour and physicochemical state. The anti-hypernociceptive action was evaluated in the animal model of acute inflammatory pain.

Result

The MPs had a mean diameter in the micrometric range (368 ± 31 μm), narrow size distribution, DIM content of 150 mg/g, encapsulation efficiency around 84% and prolonged compound release. Evaluations of the association form of DIM to MPs demonstrated the feasibility of the systems to incorporate DIM and increases its thermal stability. An improvement in the anti-hypernociceptive action of DIM was observed by its microencapsuation, because it was increased and prolonged.

Conclusion

Therefore, the MPs developed represent a promising formulation for oral administration of the DIM in the treatment of inflammatory pain.

Keywords:

• Microspheres
• indole-3-carbinol
• drug delivery
• complete Freund’s adjuvant
• inflammatory pain
• Von Frey filament

Funding

We gratefully acknowledge UFSM, Fundo de Amparo à Pesquisa no Rio Grande do Sul (FAPERGS – 17/2551–0001041-8) and Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de nível Superior (CAPES-BR) for the financial support. Juliane Mattiazzi was granted a CAPES doctoral fellowship.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).