Improvement of zein-hydroxypropyl methycellulose conjugate for drug delivery

Abstract

The objective of this study was to achieve an optimal formulation of Zein- protein extracted from maize (corn) and HPMC 15 (Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) – a semisynthetic polymer conjugation for improvement characteristic of poorly-soluble drug. Isradipine, Prednisolone, Curcumin were used as model drug which prepared by solid dispersion method with conjugated powder with 1:5 ratio. Their physiochemical properties, including size, PDI, morphology, drug release, the chemical interaction, and wet ability were characterized by Zetasizer, scanning electron microscopy, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), FTIR and PXRD. The effect of conjugation system on poorly - soluble drug was assessed. Although it did not give nano-size as well as good PDI, dissolution studies and contact angle showed that the dissolution rate and wet ability of poorly soluble drug were significant improved by the combining with conjugated powders with respect to the drug alone. In addition, FTIR and PXRD also pointed out the interaction between this system and poorly - soluble drug. This study developed new system for enhancing drug release, therefore having potential to be an alternative formulation of poorly - soluble drug. Keywords: Isradipine, Prednisolone, Curcumin, protein-polymer conjugates, Zein, HPMC 15