Process parameter optimization of vitamin D3 loaded Chitosan-TPP nanoparticles

Abstract

Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble prohormone and its main precursor molecule 7-dehydrocholesterol is predominantly present in the epidermal layer of human skin. During exposure to sunlight (UV-B light), this molecule gets converted into vitamin D3 after a series of chemical changes through different organs. Other sources of vitamin D3 include fortified foods, dietary supplements, and plant sources like mushrooms. Vitamin D deficiency is related to different ailments including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems. However, its therapeutic administration offers some limitations that include high toxicity and low bioavailability. Hence, it is imperative to use a nanoformulation system, as it may avoid/bypass these limitations. The current study aims at the fabrication of VD3 nanoparticles by the Ionic gelation method, its characterization, and process parameter optimization using the Box Behnken method. As a result, the nanoformulation comprising 1.5% Chitosan and 0.1 % Sodium Tripolyphosphate, was found to be the best combination with an encapsulation efficiency of 97.26%, as predicted by our study.