A comparative analysis of PLA and PCL microparticles for hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs.

This study aims to investigate Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polycaprolactone (PCL) polymers for microencapsulation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic anti-glaucoma drugs using an emulsion-based solvent evaporation technique. Microparticle size was analysed using optical microscopy, while drug-polymer interactions through Dynamic-Light-Scattering (DLS) and Fourier-Transform-Infra-red/Attenuated-Total-Reflection spectroscopy (FTIR/ATR). , drug release studies were performed to investigate drug encapsulation and release profiles.

Interaction-Based Perspective for Designing Polymer Biomaterial: A Strategic Approach to the Chitosan-Glycerophosphate System.

The conventional approach for developing any polymeric biomaterial is to follow protocols available in the literature and/or perform trial-and-error runs without a scientific basis. Here, we propose an analysis of a complex overlay of molecular interactions between drugs and polymers that provides a strategic pathway for biomaterial development. First, this work provides an innovative interaction-based method for developing an ocular formulation involving in situ gelling chitosan, gelatin, and glycerophosphate systems.

Unveiling the potentials of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers in microparticle systems: Opportunities and challenges in processing techniques.

Conventional drug delivery systems are associated with various shortcomings, including low bioavailability and limited control over release. Biodegradable polymeric microparticles have emerged as versatile carriers in drug delivery systems addressing all these challenges. This comprehensive review explores the dynamic landscape of microparticles, considering the role of hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials.

Elucidating the influence of electrostatic force on the re-arrangement of H-bonds of protein polymers in the presence of salts.

Polyampholytes/proteins have an intriguing network of hydrogen bonds (H-bonds), especially their secondary structure, which plays a crucial role in determining the conformational stability of the polymer. The changes in protein secondary structure in the protein-salt system have been extensively deciphered by researchers, yet their pathways for breakage and recreation are unknown. Understanding the mechanism of protein conformational changes towards their biological activities, like protein folding, remains one of the main challenges and requires multiscale analysis of this strongly correlated system.

Molecular interactions of acids and salts with polyampholytes.

The Hofmeister series characterizes the ability of salt anions to precipitate polyampholytes/proteins. However, the variation of protein size in the bulk solution of acids and the effect of salts on the same have not been studied well. In this article, the four acids (CH3COOH, HNO3, H2SO4, and HCl) and their effects on the hydrodynamic radius (RH) of gelatin in the bulk solution are investigated.

Electrostatic-Dominated Conformational Fluctuations and Transition States of Phase Separation in Charge-Balanced Protein Polymer.

Hydration of the protein/polymer is the most important aspect of stability. It is well-known that salts alter the charged polymer's electrostatic forces, ultimately impacting its conformations in solution. The solvent effects lead to certain conformational fluctuations.

Enhancing the Properties of Self-Healing Gelatin Alginate Hydrogels by Hofmeister Mediated Electrostatic Effect.

The cross-linker-free hydrogels have gained attention due to their lack of need for chemically modified polymers, resulting in better biocompatibility. The hydrogel properties can be enhanced by altering physical forces such as electrostatics and H-bonds. Tuning the physical interactions between polymers, salts, and plasticisers can unlock new horizons in material properties.

Imaging Methods for the Assessment of a Complex Hydrogel as an Ocular Drug Delivery System for Glaucoma Treatment: Opportunities and Challenges in Preclinical Evaluation.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of loss of vision. The problems associated with the marketed formulations of anti-glaucoma drugs are low bioavailability, unwanted side effects, and low patient compliance. Hydrogels are an important class of soft materials that play a crucial role in developing an ocular drug delivery system.