Abstract

The physico-chemical properties and in vivo efficacies of two nanoparticulate systems delivering the antiparkinsonian drug bromocriptine (BC) were compared in the present study. Monoolein Aqueous Dispersions (MADs) and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) were produced and characterized. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and X-ray diffraction revealed the morphology of MAD and NLC. Dimensional distribution was determined by Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (PCS) and Sedimentation Field Flow Fractionation (SdFFF). In particular, BC was shown to be encapsulated with high entrapment efficiency both in MAD and in NLC, according to SdFFF combined with HPLC. Two behavioral tests specific for akinesia (bar test) or akinesia/bradykinesia (drag test) were used to compare the effects of the different BC formulations on motor disabilities in 6-hydroxydopamine hemilesioned rats in vivo, a model of Parkinson’s disease. Both free BC and BC–NLC reduced the immobility time in the bar test and enhanced the number of steps in the drag test, although the effects of encapsulated BC were longer lasting (5h). Conversely, BC–MAD was ineffective in the bar test and improved stepping activity in the drag test to a much lower degree than those achieved with the other preparations. We conclude that MAD and NLC can encapsulate BC, although only NLC provide long-lasting therapeutic effects possibly extending BC half-life in vivo.

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 call

Disclaimer: 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.