title: Preparation techniques and mechanisms of formation of biodegradable nanoparticles from preformed polymers.
abstract: The techniques available to prepare biodegradable nanoparticles (nanospheres and nanocapsules) from preformed polymers are reviewed. Although there is abundant literature on this topic, only a few focus on the thorough analysis of preparative procedures. In particular, four techniques are discussed in terms of their technological advantages and drawbacks: emulsification evaporation, solvent displacement, salting-out, and emulsification diffusion. The proposed mechanism of nanoparticle formation for each technique is described from a physicochemical perspective. The effects of preparative variables on nanoparticle size and drug-entrapment efficiency are also discussed.
authors.affiliation: Pharmapeptides, Interuniversity Centre Geneva-Lyon, France.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Quintanar-Guerrero
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Allémann
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Fessi
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Doelker
mesh_terms: D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D004058:Diffusion; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D004655:Emulsions; D008863:Microspheres; D011108:Polymers
chemical_list: D004655:Emulsions; D011108:Polymers