Synthesis of polymeric microparticles loaded with the antiinflammatory drug delivery

Abstract

This work is part of an innovative approach aimed at developing drug delivery systems based on natural polymers, with a view to sustainable biomedical solutions. The drug delivery system is designed in the form of polymeric microparticles composed of chitosan (Cs) and pectin (PEC). These natural biopolymers were selected for their complementary properties and their ability to form stable microparticles through ionotropic gelation. Two anti-inflammatory active ingredients were targeted for encapsulation: diclofenac sodium (DS), a widely used synthetic molecule, and ginger essential oil (GEO), a natural compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The resulting microparticles exhibited diameters ranging from 200 to 600 µm, high swelling capacity, and encapsulation efficiency exceeding 80%. In vitro release profiles revealed a prolonged release, reaching 50 to 60% after 24 hours at pH 7.4. These results confirm the potential of the Cs/PEC system as a promising platform for natural, targeted, and controlled release therapeutic applications.