Berberine–phospholipid nanoaggregate-embedded thiolated chitosan hydrogel for aphthous stomatitis treatment

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to develop nanoaggregates of berberine–phospholipid complex incorporated into thiolated chitosan (TCS) hydrogel for the treatment of aphthous stomatitis. Methods: The berberine–phospholipid complex was formulated through the solvent evaporation technique and assembled into nanoaggregates. TCS was synthesized through the attachment of thioglycolic acid to chitosan (CS). Nanoaggregates–TCS was prepared by the incorporation of nanoaggregates into TCS and underwent in vitro and in vivo tests. Results: Nanoaggregates–TCS exhibited prolonged release of berberine. The mucoadhesive strength of nanoaggregates–TCS increased 1.75-fold compared with CS hydrogel. In vivo studies revealed the superior therapeutic efficacy of nanoaggregates–TCS compared with that of other groups. Conclusion: Due to prolonged drug release, appropriate residence time and anti-inflammatory effects, nanoaggregates–TCS is an effective system for the treatment of aphthous stomatitis.