Development of a Modified - release Drug Delivery System with Bexarotene Loaded in Clinoptilolite

Abstract

Developing biomaterials with optimal loading properties and controlled release of drugs is a priority of medical research. Clinoptilolite is a natural zeolite used in various industrial processes. Its texture and structure recommend its use as a biocompatible matrix for the development of modified release drug delivery systems. The present study aims to develop and characterize modified-release systems based on bexarotene loaded clinoptilolite. Bexarotene is a retinoid that is used as an anticancer agent in the topical treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. By adding bexarotene to these systems, skin delivered antineoplastic therapy with bexarotene can be improved. Clinoptilolite was obtained by purifying the volcanic tuffs from Mirsid quarry, Salaj Romania. After thermal and chemical purification, two monoionic forms of clinoptilolite were obtained. They were labeled as Na-CLI and H-CLI, respectively. Their texture and structure were characterized by specific methods. Subsequently, these forms of clinoptilolite were used as hosts for bexarotene loading by wet impregnation. The obtained results showed that the two modified-release systems Bxt@Na and Bxt@H, respectively, have no incompatibilities and provide prolonged release of the drug.