Optimization and characterization of primaquine–loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) for liver schinonticide targeting by freeze drying
- MOJ Drug Design Development & Therapy
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James Jorum Owuor,1,2 Florence Oloo,1,2 Daniel Ouma,1 Wesley Nyaigoti Omwoyo,2,4 Jeremiah Waweru Gathirwa2,3
Department of Chemical Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya, Kenya - Florence Oloo, Department of Chemical Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya, Kenya
- Daniel Ouma, Department of Chemical Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya, Kenya
- Wesley Nyaigoti Omwoyo, Center for Research in Therapeutic Sciences, Strathmore University Nairobi, Kenya
- Jeremiah Waweru Gathirwa, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kenya
Abstract
The aim of this study was preparation of a liver schinonticide Primaquine phosphate (PQ) directly to the hepatocytes using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN). The PQ-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (PQ-SLNs) were prepared by a modified solvent emulsification evaporation method based on a water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) double emulsion and dried freeze drying (PQ-SLNFD) to obtain the nanoparticles. The mean particle size, zeta potential, drug loading, and encapsulation efficiency of the PQ-SLNFD were 236 nm, +23 mV, 14%, and 75%, respectively. A spherical morphology of PQ-SLNFD was seen by scanning electron microscope had traces of drug crystals. In vitro, release profile depicted a steady drug release over 400 hours for PQ-SLNFD. Differential scanning calorimeter thermograms demonstrated presence of drug in drug-loaded nanoparticles along with disappearance of decomposition exotherms, suggesting increased physical stability of drug in prepared formulations. The nanoformulated PQ was 20% more effective as compared with conventional oral dose when tested in Plasmodium berghei-infected Swiss albino mice. This study established an effective process of developing a nanomedicine delivery system for PQ.
Keywords
double emulsion, solid lipid nanoparticles, freeze dried
