Novel polyester-polysaccharide nanoparticles.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the present study was to develop a new type of core-shell nanoparticles from a family of novel amphiphilic copolymers, based on dextran (DEX) grafted with poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) side chains (PCL-DEX).


METHODS
A family of PCL-DEX copolymers was synthesized in which both the molecular weight and the proportion by weight of DEX in the copolymer were varied. The nanoparticles were prepared by a technique derived from emulsion-solvent evaporation, during which emulsion stability was investigated using a Turbiscan. The nanoparticle size distribution, density, zeta potential, morphology, and suitability for freeze-drying were determined.


RESULTS
Because of their strongly amphiphilic properties, the PCL-DEX copolymers were able to stabilize o/w emulsions without the need of additional surfactants. Nanoparticles with a controlled mean diameter ranging from 100 to 250 nm were successfully prepared. A mechanism of formation of these nanoparticles was proposed. Zeta potential measurements confirmed the presence of a DEX coating.


CONCLUSIONS
A new generation of polysaccharide-decorated nanoparticles has been successfully prepared from a family of PCL-DEX amphiphilic copolymers. They may have potential applications in drug encapsulation and targeting.
Lemarchand
Caroline
C
UMRCNRS 8612, School of Pharmacy, Châtenay Malabry, France.
Couvreur
Patrick
P
Besnard
Madeleine
M
Costantini
Dominique
D
Gref
Ruxandra
R
D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; D003911:Dextrans / Q000737:chemistry; D004355:Drug Stability; D004655:Emulsions; D005612:Freeze Drying; D036103:Nanotechnology; D010316:Particle Size; D011091:Polyesters / Q000737:chemistry*; D011134:Polysaccharides / Q000737:chemistry*; D012995:Solubility; D013499:Surface Properties
D003911:Dextrans; D004655:Emulsions; D011091:Polyesters; D011134:Polysaccharides; C016240:polycaprolactone