Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of oleoyl-chitosan derivatives as enhancers for ferrous ions nano-delivery using Caco-2 cell model

Abstract

This work describes synthesis of different low molecular weights oleoyl chitosan derivatives with different degrees of substitution. The resultant amphiphilic polymeric nanoparticles were characterized by FTIR, H NMR,particle size and zeta-potential. Ferrous sulfate was used as a source of ferrous ions. The sorption power of the polymeric nanoparticles for ferrous ion was evaluated. Results confirmed the effectiveness of oleoyl chitosan derivatives to act as promising ferrous ion carrier systems as indicated by their high sorption power. Oleoyl chitosan with molecular weight 20 KDa and degree of substitution of 1:15 was the optimal derivative that showed the highest ferrous ion sorption power. In vitro evaluation of the optimal nanocarrier system via Caco 2 cells model confirmed the safety of the system as shown in cytotoxicity test. In addition, the increase in ferritin protein concentration within Caco 2 cells lysate indicated the efficiency of the nanocarrier system in enhancing ferrous ion absorption via intestinal mucosal cells.