Work

pH-Responsive Amphiphilic Chitosan–Lignin System Loaded with Samarium Oxide Nanoparticles for Curcumin Delivery

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Polymer nanoparticle-based drug carriers represent a new avenue for cancer therapy. In this work, we study the formation of chitosan/lignin (Chi/Lig) core–shell particles doped with samarium oxide nanoparticles as potential carriers for the hydrophobic anticancer drug curcumin. Electrostatic coassembly was responsible for the formation of Chi/Lig core–shell particles. The structural characterization suggested interactions between chitosan, lignin, and Sm 2 O 3 through electrostatic interactions, such as hydrogen bonding. The incorporation of lignin into the chitosan matrix results in the formation of an amphiphilic core–shell structure, offering the potential for dual-drug-loading strategy studies, wherein one hydrophobic drug could reside in the lignin core while another hydrophilic drug occupies the chitosan shell. Additionally, the incorporation of lignin into the polymer systems not only contributes to a slower release of curcumin but also enables the design of pH-responsive drug carriers. Moreover, the strong red fluorescence observed in the samarium-containing composites suggests their potential for applications in bioimaging and in vitro assays, particularly with orally delivered microcarriers.

Source: ACS Omega

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c09697

Authors: Gilda Quezada, Floralba López, Paulina Romero, Gema González

Institutions: Universidad Yachay Tech, National Polytechnic School, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas

Language: English

Topic: Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,935