In vitro and in vivo performance of dexamethasone loaded PLGA microspheres prepared using polymer blends

The Effect of Polymer Blends on the In Vitro Release/Degradation and Pharmacokinetics of Moxidectin-Loaded PLGA Microspheres

To investigate the effect of polymer blends on the in vitro release/degradation and pharmacokinetics of moxidectin-loaded PLGA microspheres (MOX-MS), four formulations (F1, F2, F3 and F4) were prepared using the O/W emulsion solvent evaporation method by blending high (75/25, 75 kDa) and low (50/50, 23 kDa) molecular weight PLGA with different ratios. The addition of low-molecular-weight PLGA did not change the release mechanism of microspheres, but sped up the drug release of microspheres and drastically shortened the lag phase. The in vitro degradation results show that the release of microspheres consisted of a combination of pore diffusion and erosion, and especially autocatalysis played an important role in this process. Furthermore, an accelerated release method was also developed to reduce the period for drug release testing within one month. The pharmacokinetic results demonstrated that MOX-MS could be released for at least 60 days with only a slight blood drug concentration fluctuation. In particular, F3 displayed the highest AUC and plasma concentration (AUC0-t = 596.53 ng/mL·d, Cave (day 30-day 60) = 8.84 ng/mL), making it the optimal formulation. Overall, these results indicate that using polymer blends could easily adjust hydrophobic drug release from microspheres and notably reduce the lag phase of microspheres.

Revisiting the in-vitro and in-vivo considerations for in-silico modelling of complex injectable drug products

Complex injectable drug products (CIDPs) have often been developed to modulate the pharmacokinetics along with efficacy for therapeutic agents used for remediation of chronic disorders. The effective development of CIDPs has exhibited complex kinetics associated with multiphasic drug release from the prepared formulations. Consequently, predictability of pharmacokinetic modelling for such CIDPs has been difficult and there is need for advanced complex computational models for the establishment of accurate prediction models for in-vitro-in-vivo correlation (IVIVC). The computational modelling aims at supplementing the existing knowledge with mathematical equations to develop formulation strategies for generation of predictable and discriminatory IVIVC. Such an approach would help in reduction of the burden of effect of hidden factors on preclinical to clinical translations. Computational tools like physiologically based pharmacokinetics (PBPK) modelling have combined physicochemical and physiological properties along with IVIVC characteristics of clinically used formulations. Such techniques have helped in prediction and understanding of variability in pharmacodynamic parameters of potential generic products to clinically used formulations like Doxil®, Ambisome®, Abraxane® in healthy and diseased population using mathematical equations. The current review highlights the important formulation characteristics, in-vitro, preclinical in-vivo aspects which need to be considered while developing a stimulatory predictive PBPK model in establishment of an IVIVC and in-vitro-in-vivo relationship (IVIVR).

Transscleral Delivery of Dexamethasone-Loaded Microparticles Using a Dissolving Microneedle Array

Microneedles (MNs) have attracted considerable interest as a means of ocular drug delivery, a challenging delivery route due to the limitations imposed by the various biological barriers associated with this organ. In this study, a novel ocular drug delivery system was developed by formulating a dissolvable MN array containing dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microparticles for scleral drug deposition. The microparticles serve as a drug reservoir for controlled transscleral delivery. The MNs displayed sufficient mechanical strength to penetrate the porcine sclera. Dexamethasone (Dex) scleral permeation was significantly higher than in topically instilled dosage forms. The MN system was able to distribute the drug through the ocular globe, with 19.2% of the administered Dex detected in the vitreous humour. Additionally, images of the sectioned sclera confirmed the diffusion of fluorescent-labelled microparticles within the scleral matrix. The system therefore represents a potential approach for minimally invasive Dex delivery to the posterior of the eye, which lends itself to self-administration and hence high patient convenience.

Biomaterial Integration in the Joint: Pathological Considerations, Immunomodulation, and the Extracellular Matrix

Defects of articular joints are becoming an increasing societal burden due to a persistent increase in obesity and aging. For some patients suffering from cartilage erosion, joint replacement is the final option to regain proper motion and limit pain. Extensive research has been undertaken to identify novel strategies enabling earlier intervention to promote regeneration and cartilage healing. With the introduction of decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM), researchers have tapped into the potential for increased tissue regeneration by designing biomaterials with inherent biochemical and immunomodulatory signals. Compared to conventional and synthetic materials, dECM-based materials invoke a reduced foreign body response. It is therefore highly beneficial to understand the interplay of how these native tissue-based materials initiate a favorable remodeling process by the immune system. Yet, such an understanding also demands increasing considerations of the pathological environment and remodeling processes, especially for materials designed for early disease intervention. This knowledge would avoid rejection and help predict complications in conditions with inflammatory components such as arthritides. This review outlines general issues facing biomaterial integration and emphasizes the importance of tissue-derived macromolecular components in regulating essential homeostatic, immunological, and pathological processes to increase biomaterial integration for patients suffering from joint degenerative diseases. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Co-Delivery of Dexamethasone and Captopril by α8 Integrin Antibodies Modified Liposome-PLGA Nanoparticle Hybrids for Targeted Anti-Inflammatory/Anti-Fibrosis Therapy of Glomerulonephritis

Purpose

Mesangial cells-mediated glomerulonephritis refers to a category of immunologically mediated glomerular injuries characterized by infiltration of circulating inflammatory cells, proliferation of mesangial cells, and the common pathological manifestation to the later stage is renal fibrosis, accompanied by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Treatment regimens include glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents, but their off-target distribution causes severe systemic toxicity. Hence, specific co-delivery of “anti-inflammatory/anti-fibrosis” drugs to the glomerular mesangial cell (MC) region is expected to produce better therapeutic effects.

Methods

A novel kidney-targeted nanocarrier drug delivery system targeting MCs was constructed using passive targeting resulting from the difference in pore size between the glomerular endothelial layer and the basement membrane, and active targeting based on the specific binding of antibodies and antigens. Specifically, a liposome-nanoparticle hybrid (PLGA-LNHy) was formed by coating the surface of PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) with a phospholipid bilayer, and then PLGA-LNHy was co-modified with PEG and α8 integrin antibodies to obtain PLGA immunoliposomes (PLGA-ILs).

Results

The results showed that the obtained NPs had a core-shell structure, uniform and suitable particle size (119.1 ± 2.31 nm), low cytotoxicity, and good mesangial cell-entry ability, which can successfully accumulate in the glomerular MC region. Both dexamethasone (DXMS) and captopril (CAP) were loaded onto PLGA-ILs with a drug loading of 10.22 ± 1.00% for DXMS and 6.37 ± 0.25% for CAP (DXMS/CAP@PLGA-ILs). In vivo pharmacodynamics showed that DXMS/CAP@PLGA-ILs can effectively improve the pathological changes in the mesangial area and positive expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in glomeruli as well as reduce the expression of inflammatory factors, fibrotic factors and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus, renal inflammation and fibrosis were relieved.

Conclusion

We have provided a strategy to increase nanoparticle accumulation in MCs with the potential to implement regulatory effects of anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis in glomerulonephritis (GN).

Alleviation of Surgery-Induced Osteitis in Sinonasal Cavity by Dexamethasone-Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) Microparticles with Strong Calcium-Binding Affinity

For the treatment of sinus surgery-induced osteitis in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), oral or intranasal administration of corticoids is generally used, although it has critical limitations and unavoidable side effects. To overcome these limitations, we designed dexamethasone (Dex)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles with bone-specific binding affinity, which could release the encapsulated Dex in a sustained manner on the exposed bone after the surgical wound in the nasal cavity. In a previous report, we prepared poly(butyl methacrylate-co-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphate) (PBMP) with both calcium-binding phosphomonoester groups and PLGA-binding butyl groups to introduce strong calcium-binding property to PLGA particles. In this study, after successful encapsulation of Dex in the PBMP-coated PLGA particles, we applied the Dex-PLGA/PBMP to the treatment of post-operative osteitis in the sinonasal cavity. The Dex-PLGA/PBMP showed more than 5-times higher binding affinity to the hydroxyapatite (HA) surface compared to the non-coated PLGA particles, without altering the morphology and encapsulation efficiency. After establishing the neo-osteogenesis mouse model by mechanical injury of the nasal mucosa, the activity of intranasally administered Dex-PLGA/PBMP was examined to inhibit the formation of undesirable new woven bone during the wound healing process. In addition, significantly lower osteocalcin activity was observed in the group treated with Dex-PLGA/PBMP, indicating decreased activation of osteoblasts. Overall, these results demonstrate that the PLGA/PBMP microparticle strategy has great potential for the treatment of CRS-related osteitis by localized corticoid delivery on the exposed bones with minimal side effects.

Application of Nanomaterials in the Treatment and Diagnosis of Ophthalmology Diseases

Eye diseases often lead to impaired vision and seriously affect the daily life of patients. Local administration of ophthalmic drugs is one of the most important approaches for the treatment of ophthalmic diseases. However, due to the special biochemical environment of the ocular tissue and the existence of many barriers, the bioavailability of conventional ophthalmic preparations in the eye is very low. Nanomaterials can be utilized as carriers of drugs, which can improve the absorption, distribution, metabolism and bioavailability of drugs in eyes. Nanomaterials have also the advantages of small size, simple preparation, good degradability, strong targeting, and little stimulation to biological tissues, providing an innovative and practical method for the drug delivery of ophthalmic diseases. In addition, nanomaterials can be used as an auxiliary means for early diagnosis of ophthalmic diseases by improving the specificity and accuracy of detection methods. Nanomaterials help clinicians and researchers delve deeper into the physiology and pathology of the eye at the nanoscale. We summarize the application of nanomaterials in the diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic diseases in this review.

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microsphere production based on quality by design: a review

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) has garnered increasing attention as a candidate drug delivery polymer owing to its favorable properties, including its excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, non-immunogenicity, and mechanical strength. PLAG are specifically used as microspheres for the sustained/controlled and targeted delivery of hydrophilic or hydrophobic drugs, as well as biological therapeutic macromolecules, including peptide and protein drugs. PLGAs with different molecular weights, lactic acid (LA)/glycolic acid (GA) ratios, and end groups exhibit unique release characteristics, which is beneficial for obtaining diverse therapeutic effects. This review aims to analyze the composition of PLGA microspheres, and understand the manufacturing process involved in their production, from a quality by design perspective. Additionally, the key factors affecting PLGA microsphere development are explored as well as the principles involved in the synthesis and degradation of PLGA and its interaction with active drugs. Further, the effects elicited by microcosmic conditions on PLGA macroscopic properties, are analyzed. These conditions include variations in the organic phase (organic solvent, PLGA, and drug concentration), continuous phase (emulsifying ability), emulsifying stage (organic phase and continuous phase interaction, homogenization parameters), and solidification process (relationship between solvent volatilization rate and curing conditions). The challenges in achieving consistency between batches during manufacturing are addressed, and continuous production is discussed as a potential solution. Finally, potential critical quality attributes are introduced, which may facilitate the optimization of process parameters.

Sterilization of Drug-Loaded Composite Coatings for Implantable Glucose Biosensors

BACKGROUND

An anti-inflammatory drug-loaded composite coating (dexamethasone-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) [PLGA] microspheres/polyvinyl alcohol [PVA] hydrogel) was previously developed to counter the foreign body reaction to a fully implantable continuous glucose monitoring biosensor. The long-term sensor functionality was ensured in the presence of the drug-loaded composite coating thus facilitating better diabetes control and management. In order to advance such a drug-device combination product toward clinical testing, addressing sterilization remains a key step due to the heterogeneity of the product components. The main objective of this research was to investigate the effect of two terminal sterilization techniques: gamma radiation and ethylene oxide (EO) on the stability of the anti-inflammatory coatings as well as retention of the glucose sensing ability of the implantable sensor.

METHOD

The composite coatings, their individual components, and the glucose-sensing elements of the biosensor were subjected to low-temperature gamma radiation and EO cycles. Detailed characterization was conducted on all components before and after sterilization.

RESULTS

Exposure to gamma radiation affected dexamethasone crystallinity and glucose response linearity of the sensing element, whereas physical aging of microspheres in composite coatings was observed poststerilization with EO. Despite these effects, dexamethasone drug release from coatings was not significantly affected by either technique.

CONCLUSION

The research findings indicate that both sterilization techniques are feasible for the sterilization of the dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microspheres/PVA hydrogel composite coatings, while EO was preferred for the sterilization of the glucose-sensing element of the biosensor.

The effect of polymer blends on initial release regulation and in vitro-in vivo relationship of peptides loaded PLGA-Hydrogel Microspheres

The aim of this study was to resolve the lag time problem for peptides loaded PLGA-Hydrogel Microspheres (PLGA-gel-Ms) by blending low molecular PLGA (Mw. 1 kDa) into PLGA (Mw. 10 kDa) as an intrinsic porogen, and then assess the in vitro-in vivo relationship (IVIVR). Here, Goserelin acetate (GOS) was chosen as the model peptides. When compared to additional types of porogen, the intrinsic porogen avoided impurities remaining and protected the bioactivities of the peptides. By adding 10% PLGA (Mw. 1 kDa), the lag time was eliminated both in vitro and in vivo with a desirable EE (97.04% ± 0.51%). The release mechanisms were found to be: a) initial GOS release mainly controlled by pores diffusion and b) autocatalysis of PLGA (Mw. 1 kDa) which increased the quantity of aqueous pores, as revealed by SEM images. To solve the challenges caused by multiphasic release profiles, for the first time the Segmented phases IVIVR were proposed and developed, and showed improved linear fitting effects and supported the proposed release mechanisms. The application of PLGA blends could provide a new insight into PLGA microsphere initial release rate regulation.

Identifying Specific Combinations of Matrix Properties that Promote Controlled and Sustained Release of a Hydrophobic Drug from Electrospun Meshes

Despite advances in the development of degradable polymers for drug delivery, effective translation of drug-loaded materials is often hindered due to a poor understanding of matrix property combinations that promote controlled and sustained release. In this study, we investigated the influence of dominant factors on the release of a hydrophobic glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX) from electrospun meshes. Polycaprolactone meshes released 98% of the drug within 24 h, while poly(l-lactide) meshes exhibited negligible release even after 28 days despite both polymers being slow-degrading. Differences in drug-polymer interactions and drug-polymer miscibility-but neither matrix degradation nor differences in bulk hydrophobicity-influenced DEX release from these semi-crystalline matrices. Poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) 50:50 meshes possessing two different fiber diameters exhibited a sequential burst and sustained release, while poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) 85:15 meshes cumulatively released 26% drug in a controlled manner. Although initial drug release from these matrices was driven by differences in matrix architecture and solid-state drug solubility, release toward the later stages was influenced by a combination of fiber swelling and matrix degradation as evidenced by gross and microstructural changes to the mesh network. We suggest that drug release from polymeric matrices can be better understood via investigation of critical matrix characteristics influencing release, as well as concomitant examination of drug-polymer interactions and miscibility. Our findings offer rational matrix design criteria to achieve controlled/extended drug release for promoting sustained biological responses.

Release mechanisms of bovine serum albumin loaded-PLGA microspheres prepared by ultra-fine particle processing system

The ultra-fine particle processing system (UPPS) previously developed by our lab has been used to prepare various microparticulate formulations. Microspheres prepared by UPPS can achieve sustained release with a reduced initial burst compared to the microspheres prepared by the conventional water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double emulsion technique. However, the in vitro drug release mechanism of the microspheres prepared by UPPS is still uninvestigated. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of bovine serum albumin (BSA) released from poly (D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres prepared by UPPS in comparison with microspheres prepared by the W/O/W double emulsion technique. The morphology, in vitro drug release, water uptake, and structural evolution of microspheres prepared by both techniques were evaluated. UPPS microspheres showed solid and compact internal structures without any pores or channels thereby exhibiting a reduced rate of water permeation in the release medium. In addition, the release of BSA in UPPS microspheres was mainly controlled by the erosion of the polymer matrix during the entire process, while BSA was released from W/O/W microspheres by both drug diffusion and matrix erosion. Moreover, the observed surface and internal structural evolution also confirmed their different release mechanisms. This work elaborates the release mechanism of PLGA microspheres prepared by UPPS and facilitates the design of microparticulate formulations. Graphical abstract.

Dexamethasone Degradation in Aqueous Medium and Implications for Correction of In Vitro Release from Sustained Release Delivery Systems

The in vitro drug release in an aqueous medium is a critical performance metric for a sustained release drug product. During long-term release studies, drugs may degrade in the release medium, and such degradation can lead to errors in drug release quantitation. Using dexamethasone as a model drug and LC-MS/MS methods employing dexamethasone-d₄ as an internal standard, this study identified that dexamethasone can degrade into 13 major degradation products in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) as a function of time, temperature (25, 37, and 45°C), and light exposure. A putative scheme for dexamethasone degradation pathways in PBS has been proposed. In proof-of-concept studies, the analytical method was used to quantitate dexamethasone and its degradation products during in vitro release studies with sustained release dexamethasone-poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) implants incubated in phosphate buffer saline (PBS). Further, mathematical approaches were developed to estimate drug release from implants after accounting for drug degradation in PBS. The LC-MS/MS analytical method and the mathematical approaches developed could be used for assessing the stability and/or release of dexamethasone during manufacturing, storage, and use of various dosage forms.

Design of biodegradable nanoparticles to modulate phenotypes of antigen-presenting cells for antigen-specific treatment of autoimmune disease

Current therapeutic options for autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), often require lifelong treatment with immunosuppressive drugs, yet strategies for antigen-specific immunomodulation are emerging. Biodegradable particles loaded with disease-specific antigen, either alone or with immunomodulators, have been reported to ameliorate disease. Herein, we hypothesized that the carrier could impact polarization of the immune cells that associate with particles and the subsequent disease progression. Single injection of three polymeric carriers, 50:50 poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG) with two molecular weights (Low, High) and poly (DL-lactide) (PLA), loaded with the disease-specific antigen, proteolipid protein (PLP_139-151), were investigated for the ability to attenuate clinical scores in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of MS. At a low particle dose, mice treated with PLA-based particles had significantly lower clinical scores at the chronic stage of the disease over 200 days post immunization, while neither PLG-based particles nor OVA control particles reduced the clinical scores. Compared to PLG-based particles, PLA-based particles were largely associated with Kupffer cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, which had a reduced co-stimulatory molecule expression that correlated with a reduction of CD4⁺ T-cell populations in the central nervous system. Delivery of PLA-based particles encapsulated with higher levels of PLP_139-151 at a reduced dose were able to completely ameliorate EAE over 200 days along with inhibition of Th1 and Th17 polarization. Collectively, our study demonstrates that the carrier properties and antigen loading determine phenotypes of immune cells in the peripheral organs, influencing the amelioration of both acute and chronic stages of autoimmunity.

Comprehensive control over molecular weight distributions through automated polymerizations

Automated synthesis by mixing of individual polymer distributions to tune the shape and properties of artificial molecular weight distributions.

PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel coatings suppress the foreign body reaction for 6 months

The application of dexamethasone releasing poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres embedded in a poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel coatings have been successfully used in the suppression of the foreign body response (FBR) to implantable glucose sensors. In the current study, dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microspheres were prepared by blending two types of PLGA polymers (RG503H and DLG7E with MW of ca. 25 kDa and 113 kDa, respectively) to achieve long-term (6 months) inhibition of the FBR. The microsphere composition was optimized according to the in vitro drug release profiles. Microspheres with DLG7E/RG503H/dexamethasone = 70/13.3/16.7 wt% composition, when embedded in a PVA hydrogel, provided a continuous drug release for 6 months. By combining the aforementioned microspheres with microspheres composed solely of the DLG7E polymer within a similar PVA hydrogel realized an even longer (>7 months) in vitro drug release. A heat map was constructed to depict the daily in vitro drug released and elucidate possible lag phases that could affect the pharmacodynamic response. These drug-loaded implant coatings were investigated in vivo (rat model) and showed inhibition of the foreign body response for 6 months. These results suggest that the minimum effective daily dose to counter chronic inflammation is ca. 0.1 μg per mg of coating surrounding a 0.5 × 0.5 × 5 mm silicon implant (dummy sensor). Accordingly, these drug-eluting composite coatings can ensure long-term inflammation control for miniaturized implantable devices.

Core/shell PLGA microspheres with controllable in vivo release profile via rational core phase design

Highly soluble drugs tend to release from preparations at high speeds, which make them need to be taken at frequent intervals. Additionally, some drugs need to be controlled to release in vivo at certain periods, so as to achieve therapeutic effects. Thus, the objective of this study is to design injectable microparticulate systems with controllable in vivo release profile. Biodegradable PLGA was used as the matrix material to fabricate microspheres using the traditional double emulsification-solvent evaporation method as well as improved techniques, with gel (5% gelatine or 25% F127) or LP powders as the inner phases. Their physicochemical properties were systemically investigated. Microspheres prepared by modified methods had an increase in drug loading (15.50, 16.72, 15.66%, respectively) and encapsulation efficiencies (73.46, 79.42, 74.40%, respectively) when compared with traditional methods (12.01 and 57.06%). The morphology of the particles was characterized by optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the amorphous nature of the encapsulated drug was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. To evaluate their release behaviour, the in vitro degradation, in vitro release and in vivo pharmacodynamics were subsequently studied. Traditional microspheres prepared in this study with water as the inner phase had a relatively short release period within 16 d when compared with modified microspheres with 5% gelatine as the inner phase, which resulted in a smooth release profile and appropriate plasma LP concentrations over 21 d. Thus this type of modified microspheres can be better used in drugs requiring sustained release. The other two formulations containing 25% F127 and LP micropowders presented two-stage release profiles, resulting in fluctuant plasma LP concentrations which may be suitable for drugs requiring controlled release. All the results suggested that drug release rates from the microspheres prepared by various methods were mainly controlled by either the porosity inside the microspheres or the degradation of materials, which could, therefore, lead to different release behaviours. This results indicated great potential of the PLGA microsphere formulation as an injectable depot for controllable in vivo release profile via rational core phase design. Core/shell microspheres fabricated by modified double emulsification-solvent evaporation methods, with various inner phases, to obtain high loading drugs system, as well as appropriate release behaviours. Accordingly, control in vivo release profile via rational core phase design.

BioMEMS for biosensors and closed-loop drug delivery

The efficacy of pharmaceutical treatments can be greatly enhanced by physiological feedback from the patient using biosensors, though this is often invasive or infeasible. By adapting microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology to miniaturize such biosensors, previously inaccessible signals can be obtained, often from inside the patient. This is enabled by the device's extremely small footprint which minimizes both power consumption and implantation trauma, as well as the transport time for chemical analytes, in turn decreasing the sensor's response time. MEMS fabrication also allows mass production which can be easily scaled without sacrificing its high reproducibility and reliability, and allows seamless integration with control circuitry and telemetry which is already produced using the same materials and fabrication steps. By integrating these systems with drug delivery devices, many of which are also MEMS-based, closed loop drug delivery can be achieved. This paper surveys the types of signal transduction devices available for biosensing-primarily electrochemical, optical, and mechanical-looking at their implementation via MEMS technology. The impact of MEMS technology on the challenges of biosensor development, particularly safety, power consumption, degradation, fouling, and foreign body response, are also discussed.

Hydrogels based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) and Tween 85 for sustained delivery of hydrophobic drugs

Hydrogels based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) and Tween 85 were prepared for hydrophobic drug delivery. The hydrogels were synthesized following a simple procedure carried out in solid state. The process did not require the use of any solvent and, as it is based on an esterification reaction, no toxic by-products were obtained. The resulting hydrogels contained Tween 85 inside the structure and due to the amphiphilic nature of this compound, hydrophobic domains within the hydrogel structure were formed. The obtained hydrogels showed good swelling capacities ranging from 100% to 600%. The esterification reaction that took place between poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) and Tween 85 was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. Hydrogels were loaded with a hydrophobic drug model, Curcumin (CUR), showing that the hydrogels were able to retain up to 36 mg of CUR per g of hydrogel. Additionally, the synthesized hydrogels provided in vitro sustained CUR release over periods of up to 30 days. Finally, and due to the mucoadhesive nature of the prepared materials, one of the hydrogels was tested in vitro as an oral drug delivery system. For this purpose, the selected material was milled into microparticles (45-90 µm diameter). The release of CUR from the microparticles was evaluated under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions. The microparticles were able to release their cargos in 7 h. However, further work is required to optimize this system for oral drug delivery applications.

Monomer sequence in PLGA microparticles: Effects on acidic microclimates and in vivo inflammatory response

Controlling the backbone architecture of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)s (PLGAs) is demonstrated to have a strong influence on the production and release of acidic degradation by-products in microparticle matrices. Previous efforts for controlling the internal and external accumulation of acidity for PLGA microparticles have focused on the addition of excipients including neutralization and anti-inflammatory agents. In this report, we utilize a sequence-control strategy to tailor the microstructure of PLGA. The internal acidic microclimate distributions within sequence-defined and random PLGA microparticles were monitored in vitro using a non-invasive ratiometric two-photon microscopy (TPM) methodology. Sequence-defined PLGAs were found to have minimal changes in pH distribution and lower amounts of percolating acidic by-products. A parallel scanning electron microscopy study further linked external morphological events to internal degradation-induced structural changes. The properties of the sequenced and random copolymers characterized in vitro translated to differences in in vivo behavior. The sequence alternating copolymer, poly LG, had lower granulomatous foreign-body reactions compared to random racemic PLGA with a 50:50 ratio of lactic to glycolic acid.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

This paper demonstrates that changing the monomer sequence in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)s (PLGAs) leads to dramatic differences in the rate of degradation and the internal acidic microclimate of microparticles degrading in vitro. We note that the acidic microclimates within these particles were imaged for the first time with two-photon microscopy, which gives an extremely clear and detailed picture of the degradation process. Importantly, we also document that the observed sequence-controlled in vitro processes translate into differences in the in vivo behavior of polymers which have the same L to G composition but differing microstructures. These data, placed in the context of our prior studies on swelling, erosion, and MW loss (Biomaterials2017, 117, 66 and other references cited within the manuscript), provide significant insight not only about sequence effects in PLGAs but into the underlying mechanisms of PLGA degradation in general.

Seeing is believing, PLGA microsphere degradation revealed in PLGA microsphere/PVA hydrogel composites

The aim of this study was to understand the polymer degradation and drug release mechanism from PLGA microspheres embedded in a PVA hydrogel. Two types of microspheres were prepared with different molecular weight PLGA polymers (approximately 25 and 7 kDa) to achieve different drug release profiles, with a 9-day lag phase and without a lag phase, respectively. The kinetics of water uptake into the microspheres coincided with the drug release profiles for both formulations. For the 25 kDa microspheres, minimal water uptake was observed in the early part of the lag phase followed by substantial water uptake at the later stages and in the drug release phase. For the 7 kDa microspheres, water uptake occurred simultaneously with drug release. Water uptake was approximately 2-3 times that of the initial microsphere weight for both formulations. The internal structure of the PLGA microspheres was evaluated using low temperature scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM). Burst drug release occurred followed by pore forming from the exterior to the core of both microspheres. A well-defined hydrogel/microsphere interface was observed. For the 25 kDa microspheres, internal pore formation and swelling occurred before the second drug release phase. The surface layer of the microspheres remained intact whereas swelling, and degradation of the core continued throughout the drug release period. In addition, microsphere swelling reduced glucose transport through the coatings in PBS media and this was considered to be a as a consequence of the increased thickness of the coatings. The combination of the swelling and microdialysis results provides a fresh understanding on the competing processes affecting molecular transport of bioanalytes (i.e. glucose) through these composite coatings during prolonged exposure in PBS.