Abstract
Gamma-irradiation effects on aciclovir poly( d, l-lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microspheres, with gelatin as additive, were studied. Microspheres with a 2:2:10 aciclovir:gelatin:polymer ratio were prepared by the solvent evaporation method and sterilised by γ-irradiation at a dose of 25 kGy. Loading efficiency, morphology (particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), physical chemistry (infrared (IR) absorption spectrophotometry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction and gel permeation chromatography (GPC)) and in vitro release assays for 73 days were performed to evaluate the sterilisation effect on microsphere characteristics. After γ-irradiation, no surface changes were observed by SEM. Microparticle mean diameter and aciclovir loading efficiency were not affected by γ-ray exposition. IR spectroscopy, DSC and X-ray diffraction showed no modification of the bulk properties of the microspheres or their components. The controlled release profiles of aciclovir-loaded microspheres for 73 days were not altered upon exposure to γ-irradiation. GPC measurements showed a decrease in molecular weight of the polymer. The sterilisation method is adequate because microspheres underwent no change after exposition to γ-irradiation. These favourable properties of the aciclovir-loaded microspheres make them a suitable system for the intravitreal treatment of herpes virus infections, in an animal model.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
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.