Small-molecule release from poly(D,L-lactide)/poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) composite microparticles

An overview of the production methods for core-shell microspheres for parenteral controlled drug delivery

Core-shell microspheres hold great promise as a drug delivery system because they offer several benefits over monolithic microspheres in terms of release kinetics, for instance a reduced initial burst release, the possibility of delayed (pulsatile) release, and the possibility of dual-drug release. Also, the encapsulation efficiency can significantly be improved. Various methods have proven to be successful in producing these core-shell microspheres, both the conventional bulk emulsion solvent evaporation method and methods in which the microspheres are produced drop by drop. The latter have become increasingly popular because they provide improved control over the particle characteristics. This review assesses various production methods for core-shell microspheres and summarizes the characteristics of formulations prepared by the different methods, with a focus on their release kinetics.

Microfluidic Production of Polymeric Core-Shell Microspheres for the Delayed Pulsatile Release of Bovine Serum Albumin as a Model Antigen

For many vaccines, multiple injections are required to confer protective immunity against targeted pathogens. These injections often consist of a primer administration followed by a booster administration of the vaccine a few weeks or months later. A single-injection vaccine formulation that provides for both administrations could greatly improve the convenience and vaccinee's compliance. In this study, we developed parenterally injectable core-shell microspheres with a delayed pulsatile release profile that could serve as the booster in such a vaccine formulation. These microspheres contained bovine serum albumin (BSA) as the model antigen and poly(dl-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) with various dl-lactide:glycolide monomer ratios as the shell material. Highly monodisperse particles with different particle characteristics were obtained using a microfluidic setup. All formulations exhibited a pulsatile in vitro release of BSA after an adjustable lag time. This lag time increased with the increasing lactide content of the polymer and ranged from 3 to 7 weeks. Shell thickness and bovine serum albumin loading had no effect on the release behavior, which could be ascribed to the degradation mechanism of the polymer, with bulk degradation being the main pathway. Co-injection of the core-shell microspheres together with a solution of the antigen that serves as the primer would allow for the desired biphasic release profile. Altogether, these findings show that injectable core-shell microspheres combined with a primer are a promising alternative for the current multiple-injection vaccines.

Drug delivery systems for programmed and on-demand release

With the advancement in medical science and understanding the importance of biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of therapeutic agents, modern drug delivery research strives to utilize novel materials and fabrication technologies for the preparation of robust drug delivery systems to combat acute and chronic diseases. Compared to traditional drug carriers, which could only control the release of the agents in a monotonic manner, the new drug carriers are able to provide a precise control over the release time and the quantity of drug introduced into the patient's body. To achieve this goal, scientists have introduced "programmed" and "on-demand" approaches. The former provides delivery systems with a sophisticated architecture to precisely tune the release rate for a definite time period, while the latter includes systems directly controlled by an operator/practitioner, perhaps with a remote device triggering/affecting the implanted or injected drug carrier. Ideally, such devices can determine flexible release pattern and intensify the efficacy of a therapy via controlling time, duration, dosage, and location of drug release in a predictable, repeatable, and reliable manner. This review sheds light on the past and current techniques available for fabricating and remotely controlling drug delivery systems and addresses the application of new technologies (e.g. 3D printing) in this field.

Long-acting injectable hormonal dosage forms for contraception

Although great efforts have been made to develop long-acting injectable hormonal contraceptives for more than four decades, few long-acting injectable contraceptives have reached the pharmaceutical market or even entered clinical trials. On the other hand, in clinical practice there is an urgent need for injectable long-acting reversible contraceptives which can provide contraceptive protection for more than 3 months after one single injection. Availability of such products will offer great flexibility to women and resolve certain continuation issues currently occurring in clinics. Herein, we reviewed the strategies exploited in the past to develop injectable hormonal contraceptive dosages including drug microcrystal suspensions, drug-loaded microsphere suspensions and in situ forming depot systems for long-term contraception and discussed the potential solutions for remaining issues met in the previous development.

Multilayered polymer-coated carbon nanotubes to deliver dasatinib

Multilayered, multifunctional polymer coatings were grafted onto carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a one-pot, ring-opening polymerization in order to control the release kinetic and therapeutic efficacy of dasatinib. Biocompatible, biodegradable multilayered coatings composed of poly(glycolide) (PGA) and poly(lactide) (PLA) were polymerized directly onto hydroxyl-functionalized CNT surfaces. Sequential addition of monomers into the reaction vessel enabled multilayered coatings of PLA-PGA or PGA-PLA. Poly(ethylene glycol) capped the polymer chain ends, resulting in a multifunctional amphiphilic coating. Multilayer polymer coatings on CNTs enabled control of the anticancer drug dasatinib's release kinetics and enhanced the in vitro therapeutic efficacy against U-87 glioblastoma compared to monolayer polymer coatings.

Mechanism of drug release from double-walled PDLLA(PLGA) microspheres

The drug release and degradation behavior of two double-walled microsphere formulations consisting of a doxorubicin-loaded poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) core (∼46 kDa) surrounded by a poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PDLLA) shell layer (∼55 and 116 kDa) were examined. It was postulated that different molecular weights of the shell layer could modulate the erosion of the outer coating and limit the occurrence of water penetration into the inner drug-loaded core on various time scales, and therefore control the drug release from the microspheres. For both microsphere formulations, the drug release profiles were observed to be similar. The degradation of the microspheres was monitored for a period of about nine weeks and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, laser scanning confocal microscopy, and gel permeation chromatography. Interestingly, both microsphere formulations exhibited occurrence of bulk erosion of PDLLA on a similar time scale despite different PDLLA molecular weights forming the shell layer. The shell layer of the double-walled microspheres served as an effective diffusion barrier during the initial lag phase period and controlled the release rate of the hydrophilic drug independent of the molecular weight of the shell layer.

Monodisperse double-walled microspheres loaded with chitosan-p53 nanoparticles and doxorubicin for combined gene therapy and chemotherapy

We have designed and evaluated a dual anticancer delivery system to provide combined gene therapy and chemotherapy. Double-walled microspheres consisting of a poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) core surrounded by a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) shell were fabricated via the precision particle fabrication (PPF) technique. We make use of the advantages of double-walled microspheres to deliver chitosan-DNA nanoparticles containing the gene encoding the p53 tumor suppressor protein (chi-p53) and/or doxorubicin (Dox), loaded in the shell and core phases, respectively. Different molecular weights of PLA were used to form the shell layer for each formulation. The microspheres were monodisperse with a mean diameter of 65 to 75 μm and uniform shell thickness of 8 to 17 μm. Blank and Dox-loaded microspheres typically exhibited a smooth surface with relatively few small pores, while chi-microspheres containing p53 nanoparticles, with and without Dox, presented rough and porous surfaces. The encapsulation efficiency of Dox was significantly higher when it was encapsulated alone compared to co-encapsulation with chi-p53 nanoparticles. The encapsulation efficiency of chi-p53 nanoparticles, on the other hand, was not affected by the presence of Dox. As desired, chi-p53 nanoparticles were released first, followed by simultaneous release of chi-p53 nanoparticles and Dox at a near zero-order rate. Thus, we have demonstrated that the PPF method is capable of producing double-walled microspheres and encapsulating dual agents for combined modality treatment, such as gene therapy and chemotherapy.

Revolutionizing drug delivery through biodegradable multilayered particles

Modern drug discovery technologies are discovering more and more potent therapeutic agents with narrow therapeutic windows, thus necessitating the improvement of current particulate drug delivery systems. Conventional single-layered polymeric particles have limited control over drug release profiles, including burst release, the inability to provide zero-order, pulsatile, time-delayed release and controlled release of multiple drugs. In an attempt to better control drug release kinetics, the development of multilayered microparticles has been introduced. In this review, we give an overview of the fabrication and characterization techniques of multilayered polymeric microparticles. We also focus on the one-step solvent evaporation technique, and the key process parameters in this technique that affect the formation of microparticle configurations. In addition, the benefits and challenges of multilayered microparticulate system for drug delivery were discussed. This review intends to portray how distinctive structural attributes and degradation behaviors of multilayered microparticles can be exploited to fine-tune drug release profiles and kinetics.

Designing drug-loaded multi-layered polymeric microparticles

This work reports how novel multi-layered (from double-layered to quadruple-layered) microparticles comprising immiscible polymers can be fabricated through a simple, economical, reliable and versatile one-step solvent evaporation method. These multi-layered microparticles would be excellent candidates to overcome problems inherent in single-layered microparticles for drug delivery. Particle morphologies, layer configurations, and drug distribution were determined by scanning electron microscopy and Raman mapping. Key process parameters achieving the formation of the multi-layered structure were identified. Encapsulation of multiple drugs and layer localization of these drugs within these multi-layered microparticles have also shown to be possible, which were driven by drug-polymer affinity. This one-step fabrication technique can therefore be used for tailoring particle designs, thus facilitating the development of multiparticulate drug delivery devices.

Formulation of sustained-release microspheres of granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor by freezing-induced phase separation with dextran and encapsulation with blended polymers

This study aimed to assess the potential merits of formulating sustained-release microspheres of recombinant human granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF) via freezing-induced phase separation (FIPS) of the protein with dextran followed by encapsulation with binary mixture of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) 2A (MW∼12K) and 3A (MW∼47K) or of PLGA2A and polylactic acid (PLA; MW∼83K). The formulated dextran particles and microspheres were characterized in vitro for loading, aggregation, bioactivity and release behavior of the protein where appropriate. rhGM-CSF retained about 60% of bioactivity with no significant aggregation after each formulation step. Encapsulation of protein-loaded dextran particles attained only 80% with the PLGA2A and PLGA3A blend, but 100% with the PLGA2A and PLA mixture. The former formulation exhibited a triphasic in-vitro release profile typical of PLGA microspheres while the latter revealed a much lower initial burst followed by a steady and complete release of rhGM-CSF with preserved bioactivity over a 15-day period.

Advancing islet transplantation: from engraftment to the immune response

The promise and progress of islet transplantation for treating type 1 diabetes has been challenged by obstacles to patient accessibility and long-term graft function that may be overcome by integrating emerging technologies in biomaterials, drug delivery and immunomodulation. The hepatic microenvironment and traditional systemic immunosuppression stress the vulnerable islets and contribute to the limited success of transplantation. Locally delivering extracellular matrix proteins and trophic factors can enhance transplantation at extrahepatic sites by promoting islet engraftment, revascularisation and long-term function while avoiding unintended systemic effects. Cell- and cytokine-based therapies for immune cell recruitment and reprogramming can inhibit local and systemic immune system activation that normally attacks transplanted islets. Combined with antigen-specific immunotherapies, states of operational tolerance may be achievable, reducing or eliminating the long-term pharmaceutical burden. Integration of these technologies to enhance engraftment and combat rejection may help to advance the therapeutic efficacy and availability of islet transplantation.

One-step fabrication of triple-layered polymeric microparticles with layer localization of drugs as a novel drug-delivery system

Particulate systems have tremendous potential to achieve controlled release and targeted delivery of drugs. However, conventional single-layered particles have several inherent limitations, including initial burst release, the inability to provide zero-order release, and a lack of time-delayed or pulsatile release of therapeutic agents. Multilayered particles have the potential to overcome these disadvantages. Herein, it is shown how triple-layered polymeric microparticles can be fabricated through a simple, economical, reliable, and versatile one-step solvent evaporation technique. Particle morphologies and layer configurations are determined by scanning electron microscopy, polymer dissolution tests, and Raman mapping. Key fabrication parameters that affect the formation of triple-layered polymeric microparticles comprising poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (50:50), poly(L-lactide), and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (40 wt% vinyl acetate) are discussed, along with their formation mechanisms. Layer thickness and the configurations of these microparticles are altered by changing the polymer mass ratios. Finally, it is shown that drugs can be localized in specific layers of the microparticles. This fabrication process can therefore be used to tailor microparticle designs, thus allowing such "designer" particulate drug-delivery systems to function across a wide range of applications.

PLGA particle production for water-soluble drug encapsulation: degradation and release behaviour

Particles for subcutaneous depot use encapsulating a model water-soluble drug have been produced from poly(lactic-glycolic acid) (PLGA) using a membrane emulsification-solvent evaporation technique. The release behaviour, mainly the change in size and inner morphology are reported. During release, the particles initially swelled in size, then reduced. A diffusion based model, taking in to account the change in particle size, is presented. Surface erosion is evident from the particle size and image evidence, and the diffusion model provides a fit to the data even during the surface erosion period, suggesting that the model drug diffuses before the particle degrades.

Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Piroxicam in Rats by Hyaluronate Microspheres

To enhance the dissolution and oral bioavailability of poorly water soluble piroxicam, the piroxicam-loaded hyaluronic microspheres were prepared with various ratios of piroxicam, sodium hyaluronate and polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG) using a spray dryer, and their physicochemical properties such as shape, size, drug-loading efficiency and dissolution were investigated. The pharmacokinetic study of piroxicam-loaded hyaluronic micropheres in rats was then performed compared to piroxicam powder. The piroxicam-loaded hyaluronic microspheres, spherical in shape, had the geometric mean diameters of about 1.5 microm and drug loading efficiency of about 90%, irrespective of ratio of piroxicam/sodium hyaluronate/PEG. The hyaluronic microspheres containing PEG gave significantly higher dissolution rates of drug than did piroxicam powder, PEG-based solid dispersion system and hyaluronic microspheres without PEG, suggesting that the hyaluronic microsphere with sodium hyaluronate and PEG was more useful for improving the dissolution rate of poorly water soluble piroxicam. The piroxicam-loaded hyaluronic microcapsule composed of (piroxicam/sodium hyaluronate/PEG; 2: 20: 1) gave about threefold improved dissolution of drug in water for 4 h compared to piroxicam powder. It showed higher plasma concentrations of drug compared to piroxicam powder. It gave significantly higher AUC and faster Tmax of piroxicam than did piroxicam powder. In particular, the AUC of piroxicam from hyaluronic microsphere was about twofold higher than that from piroxicam powder, suggesting that it could enhance the oral bioavailability of piroxicam. Thus, the hyaluronic microsphere developed using spray-drying technique with sodium hyaluronate and PEG was a more effective oral dosage form for poorly water soluble piroxicam.

Monodisperse Liquid-filled Biodegradable Microcapsules

PURPOSE

Encapsulation of liquids into biodegradable polymer microcapsules has been a challenging task due to production limitations stemming from solution viscosity, phase stabilization, molecular localization, and scalable production. We report an extension of Precision Particle Fabrication (PPF) technology for the production of monodisperse liquid-filled microcapsules containing an oil or aqueous core and contrast these results to double-walled microspheres.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PPF technology utilizes a coaxial nozzle to produce a liquid core jet surrounded by a polymer annular jet, which is further encompassed by a non-solvent carrier stream, typically 0.5% wt/vol polyvinyl alcohol in water. Jet diameters are controlled by the volumetric flow rate of each phase. The compound jet is then disrupted into uniform core/shell droplets via a controllable acoustic wave and shell material is hardened by solvent extraction.

RESULTS

Monodisperse polymeric microcapsules demonstrated a narrow size distribution and the formation of a continuous shell leading to efficient encapsulation of various liquid cores. The intermingling of core and shell phases and the localization of different molecular probes (fluorescent dyes and fluorescently labeled proteins) to the core or shell phase provided additional evidence of phase separation and molecular partitioning, respectively. We also demonstrate the pulsatile release of bovine serum albumin encapsulated in an aqueous core.

CONCLUSIONS

PPF technology provided exceptional control of the overall size and shell thickness of microcapsules filled with various types of oil or water. This technique may enable advanced delivery profiles of pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals.

Use of thermodynamic parameters for design of double-walled microsphere fabrication methods

Double-walled microspheres (DWMS), with drug localized to the particle core, present a promising route for control of drug release rates, for example, by varying the degradation rate or erosion mechanism of the polymer used to form the shell or the thickness of the shell. DWMS are often difficult to fabricate, however. Thermodynamic descriptions for polymer-polymer immiscibility, drug distribution between phases and polymer-solution spreading coefficient provide predictions of appropriate solvents and polymer concentrations for efficiently producing well-formed DWMS. As an example, thermodynamic parameters for a polyphosphoester/poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG) DWMS system, encapsulating piroxicam, have been calculated and the predictions tested experimentally. Appropriate choices of solvents and initial polymer concentrations resulted in DWMS with the desired polyphosphoester shells and piroxicam located selectively in PLG cores.