Thermoresponsive curcumin/DsiRNA nanoparticle gels for the treatment of diabetic wounds: synthesis and drug release

Abstract

Aim: Chitosan (CS) has been extensively studied as drug delivery systems for wound healing. Results/methodology: CS nanoparticles were loaded with curcumin (Cur) and DsiRNA against prostaglandin transporter gene and they were incorporated into 20 and 25% w/v Pluronic F-127. The gels were later analyzed for their rheology, gelation temperature (Tgel), morphology, drug incorporation and in vitro drug release. The particle size was in the range of 231 ± 17–320 ± 20 nm, depending on CS concentration. The gels had Tgel of 23–28°C and exhibited sustained drug release with high accumulated amount of drugs over 48 h. Conclusion: A thermo-sensitive gel containing Cur/DsiRNA CS nanoparticles was successfully developed and has a great potential to be further developed.