Lactoferrin-based Nanoparticles for Drug Administration Obtained by Desolvation Method - Development and Characterization

BESSONE, CAROLINA D.V.; TETAMANTTI, CECILIA; FRONTERA, EVELINA; ZACH, GIANELLA ; ALLEMANDI, DANIEL A.; QUINTEROS, DANIELA A.

Rosario

Congreso; 7ma Reunión Internacional de Ciencias Farmacéuticas (RICiFa 2023); 2023

Comité Ejecutivo RICiFa 2023

Lactoferrin (LF) is a globular protein from milk with great potential as a natural ingredient for various food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. Multiple investigations have shown that LF, as a monomeric glycoprotein binds to iron, and presents a wide range of physiological functions, such as activity against a broad spectrum of DNA and RNA viruses, the ability to modulate immune responses, and antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant activity. These discoveries have expanded the study and interest in the application of LF and the use of nanotechnology in developing new treatments for various diseases and conditions.In this work, we focus on the synthesis of bovine LF nanoparticles (NpLF) using a combined ethanol desolvation and thermal treatment method. NpLF were prepared from different concentrations of LF (0.3, 0.5, and 2.0% w/v). The formation of nanometric systems was evaluated in a pH range between 4-8 and the extra addition in the final stage of an ultrasonication process. Physicochemical characterization of obtained formulations was performed through size studies, polydispersity index (PDI), and electrokinetic potential by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements. Likewise, structural assays through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and spectroscopy FT-IR were carried out. As preliminary assays, the loading of Vancomycin (VAN), as an antibiotic drug, was worked on to evaluate the behavior of the system with the incorporation of a drug at a defined dose. All LF concentrations, nanometric systems were obtained in the pH range evaluated. At pH values between 6.5 and 7.5, formulations with the best physicochemical characteristics were observed. Regarding NpLF 0.3 and 0.5% w/v, particle size around 100 and 200 nm, PDI values less than 0.2, and positive zeta potential between 30 and 50 mV were obtained. On the other hand, for NpLF at 2% w/v, the particle size rises to 300 nm, with PDI values less than 0.3 and positive superficial charge between 30 and 50 mV. The ultrasonication process optimized the physicochemical values in all cases. Through SEM studies, nanoparticles with rhomboidal and tubular shapes were observed, with particle sizes similar to those evaluated by DLS studies. IR assays, for both LF and NpLF, similar profiles are observed where amides and methyl’s can be identified as acting functional groups. Finally, when a fixed dose of VAN (0.3% w/v) was loaded into the nanoparticle systems, it was observed that at a higher percentage of LF (2.0% w/v) the best physicochemical characteristics were obtained.The NpLF systems produced through the desolvation and thermal treatment approach described in this study, the promising physicochemical characteristics obtained, and the biocompatibility that this protein presents, turn these systems into potential drug delivery platforms.