How the composition and manufacturing parameters affect insulin release from polymeric nanoparticles

Abstract

Polymeric nanoparticles (PLA-PCL-Eudragit® RS-ethylcellulose-PVA) containing insulin were prepared by a double emulsion (W/O/W) solvent evaporation technique. The quantification of insulin in the particles was performed by HPLC analysis; the particles were characterized by different techniques, namely DSC, SEM and infrared analysis. The parameters of the preparation process were optimized. The encapsulation efficacy could be increased up to 99%, using PCL 60000/Eudragit® RS. The nature of the polymers also affected the size and zeta potential of the nanoparticles and insulin release kinetics. The use of ethylcellulose in the formulation and ultrasound during nanoparticle preparation allowed obtaining particles smaller than 300 nm.