Release Kinetics of Anti-inflammatory Drug, and Characterization and Bioactivity of SiO2+PCL Hybrid Material Synthesized by Sol-gel Processing

Abstract

Background Controlled and local drug delivery systems of anti-inflammatory agents are drawing increasing attention thanks to their possible pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. These systems have extended therapeutic effects and reduced side effects. Methods A single-step sol-gel process was used to prepare organic-inorganic hybrid materials based on silica (SiO2) and poly-ε-caprolactone, containing ketoprofen for controlled drug delivery applications. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis proved formation of H-bonds among the carbonyl groups of the polymer chains and Si-OH group of the inorganic matrix. X-ray diffraction analysis highlighted the amorphous nature of the synthesized materials. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscope topography showed their homogeneous morphology and nanostructure nature. Results The bioactivity of the synthesized hybrid materials was shown by the formation of a layer of hydroxyapatite on the surface of samples soaked in a simulated body fluid (SBF). Conclusion Release kinetics in SBF were subsequently investigated by means of UV-VIS spectroscopy. A large amount of drug release occurred during the first few hours, then a slower drug release supplied a maintenance dose until the end of the experiment.