Artificial cell microcapsule for oral delivery of thalidomide: design, preparation, and in-vitro characterization for Crohn’s disease application

Abstract

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gut and is classified as a type of inflammatory bowel disease. The anti-inflammatory drug thalidomide has shown to be very effective against Crohn’s disease, but presents several limitations such as drowsiness, skin rash and hypertension. Therefore, development of novel delivery system is urgent and necessary. The aim of this paper is to present the formulation of Alginate- Poly-L-Lysine-Alginate (APA) microcapsules for the delivery of thalidomide to desired locations of the gastrointestinal tract. APA microcapsules were designed, prepared and characterized in-vitro for thalidomide release. Mechanical stability of capsules and the drug release profile were monitored in a simulated gastrointestinal model. Data suggest that APA microcapsules enable a slow release of thalidomide in a pH and time-dependent manner. Indeed, the characteristics of APA microcapsules make it a suitable carrier for the targeted delivery of thalidomide to specific areas of the gastrointestinal tract.