Abstract

The objective of this research project was to develop a nanoparticle drug delivery system using the biopolymer chitosan as the base component. The nanoparticles were produced through ionotropic gelation by flush mixing chitosan with counterions carrageenan and alginate. The nanoparticles were generated under a range of conditions to determine the effect of pH, chitosan concentration, carrageenan concentration, and alginate concentration on the nanoparticle characteristics of particle diameter, zeta potential, and particle size distribution. The encapsulation and controlled release of BSA from chitosan nanoparticles was also evaluated. The encapsulation of BSA was used as a model system for the controlled drug delivery from composite nanoparticles. The release profile indicated an initial burst in the first few hours of the trial, followed by a slower steady release over time. According to Korsmeyer-Peppas model, the release profile followed fickian diffusion.

Keywords: Alginate, BSA, biopolymers, composite nanoparticles, controlled release, chitosan, carrageenan.

Graphical Abstract