Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide)/hydroxyapatite core-shell nanospheres. Part 1: A multifunctional system for controlled drug delivery.

Biodegradable poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and bioactive hydroxyapatite (HAp) are selected for the formation of a multifunctional system with the specific core-shell structure to be applied as a carrier of a drug. As a result, both components of PLGA/HAp core-shells are able to capture one part of the drug. Polymeric shells consisting of small nanospheres up to 20nm in size act as a matrix in which one part of the drug is dispersed.

An innovative, quick and convenient labeling method for the investigation of pharmacological behavior and the metabolism of poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) nanospheres.

Nanoparticles of poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) in the size range 90-150 nm were produced using the physicochemical method with solvent/non-solvent systems. The encapsulation of the ascorbic acid in the polymer matrix was performed by homogenization of the water and organic phases. In vitro degradation and release tests of PLGA nanoparticles with and without encapsulated ascorbic acid were studied for more than 60 days in PBS and it has been determined that PLGA completely degrades within this period, fully releasing all encapsulated ascorbic acid.