Optimization of the fabrication of novel stealth PLA-based nanoparticles by dispersion polymerization using D-optimal mixture design.
OBJECTIVE
Nanoparticle size is important in drug delivery. Clearance of nanoparticles by cells of the reticuloendothelial system has been reported to increase with increase in particle size. Further, nanoparticles should be small enough to avoid lung or spleen filtering effects. Endocytosis and accumulation in tumor tissue by the enhanced permeability and retention effect are also processes that are influenced by particle size. We present the results of studies designed to optimize cross-linked biodegradable stealth polymeric nanoparticles fabricated by dispersion polymerization.


METHODS
Nanoparticles were fabricated using different amounts of macromonomer, initiators, crosslinking agent and stabilizer in a dioxane/DMSO/water solvent system. Confirmation of nanoparticle formation was by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Particle size was measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). D-optimal mixture statistical experimental design was used for the experimental runs, followed by model generation (Scheffe polynomial) and optimization with the aid of a computer software. Model verification was done by comparing particle size data of some suggested solutions to the predicted particle sizes.


CONCLUSIONS
Data showed that average particle sizes follow the same trend as predicted by the model. Negative terms in the model corresponding to the cross-linking agent and stabilizer indicate the important factors for minimizing particle size.
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), Howard University , Washington DC , USA and.
Simeon K
SK
Adesina
Scott A
SA
Wight
Emmanuel O
EO
Akala
D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000737:chemistry*; D010316:Particle Size; D011091:Polyesters / Q000737:chemistry*; D013499:Surface Properties; D013678:Technology, Pharmaceutical
D011091:Polyesters; C033616:poly(lactide)
Free radical dispersion polymerization; Scheffe polynomial; macromonomer; optimization