Formulation Parameters and Characterization of Drug-loaded Biodegradable Polymeric Nanoparticles

Keywords:
nanoparticles, PLGA, antioxidants

Abstract:
In the accompanying abstract, our recent work on drug-loaded PLGA nanoparticles is reported. We are employing nanoprecipitation, a relatively straightforward procedure, to synthesize surfactant-free carboxylic acid end group PLGA nanoparticles. In order to characterize the nanoparticles, we are utilizing a combination of dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy and electron microscopy. By varying the formulation parameters, we can control the mean diameter of these nanoparticles. PLGA nanoparticles as drug delivery devices must be loaded with drug molecules during synthesis. We have loaded the antioxidant Coenzyme Q10 into the nanoparticles and confirmed its encapsulation by UV absorbance. Currently, we are studying the nanoparticle degradation and CoQ10 release. After this complete characterization, we will apply these antioxidant-loaded nanoparticles to a cell model of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress and damage may contribute to the progression and exacerbation of neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s Disease. We hope to attenuate oxidative damage in vitro as a first step toward more efficient treatment of neurodegeneration.

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Nanotech 2006 Conference Program Abstract