Biopolymeric systems for co-encapsulation of bioactive compounds

Abstract

Systems for co-encapsulation and dual drug release are devices capable of encapsulating two or more bioactive compounds, without interaction between them, with simultaneous and independent release behaviors and different release times. These devices can be applied in several areas, such as medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food, and the release profile is essential to determine the final application. Specifically in pharmaceutical area, the encapsulation systems have several advantages, including gradual release of encapsulated compounds and reduction of side effects. The co-encapsulation systems can be prepared from natural raw materials, extracted from renewable sources, such as lipids and natural polymers, which make these devices biodegradable and biocompatible with a wide variety of cells and tissues. Thus, the objective of this project is to develop all natural devices for co-encapsulation and dual release of bioactive compounds. For this, biopolymeric and lipid microparticles produced from complex coacervation, ionic gelation and/or melt emulsification techniques will be studied and incorporated in biopolymeric hydrogels. Dyes will be used as model compounds, with different dyes incorporated in the microparticles and hydrogel matrices. The devices will be evaluated regarding microstructure, mechanical, thermal and rheological properties, infrared spectroscopy, encapsulation efficiency and kinetic of drug release. (AU)