Abstract
The use of various harmful organic solvents for microparticle formulations is still widespread. Here, an alternative low toxicity solvent (propylene carbonate; PC) is proposed for the preparation of poly(lactic-co-glycolic-acid) (PLGA) microparticles. Based on the classical emulsification-solvent extraction methodology, the use of PC offers the unique advantage of an additional solvent extraction step using hydrolytic solvent cleavage during microparticle preparation. Spherical, rough-surfaced microparticles were obtained with a volume median diameter range from 20 to 60 µm. The residual PC content has been identified to be the major factor for the solidification hindrance, leading to polymeric Tg shifting due to a plasticizing effect. When applying the enhanced PC extraction step, the residual PC content was lowered from 8.8% to 2.7% and subsequently Tg values shifted from 8.2 to 37.7 °C. Additionally, the hydrolytic solvent cleavage confirmed to have no impact on the PLGA stability. This method presents a significant advancement towards replacing of conventional solvents in the microparticle preparation due to more efficient solvent extraction.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
