Effect of various formulation parameters on the properties of polymeric nanoparticles prepared by multiple emulsion method.

This work evaluates and interprets underlying mechanisms behind various aspects related to preparation and physical characteristics of polymeric nanoparticles (NP). These were prepared from different biodegradable polymers according to a water-in-oil-in-water emulsion solvent evaporation method. Polymers used were poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA), poly (lactic acid) (PLA), (PLA-PEG-PLA) triblock and (PLA-PEG-PLA)n multi-block co-polymers.

Artificial neural networks: comparison of two programs for modeling a process of nanoparticle preparation.

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) were used to predict nanoparticle size and micropore surface area of polylactic acid nanoparticles, prepared by a double emulsion method. Different batches were prepared while varying polymer and surfactant concentration, as well as homogenization pressure. Two commercial ANNs programs were evaluated: Neuroshell Predictor, a black-box software adopting both neural and genetic strategies, and Neurosolutions, allowing a step-by-step building of the network.