Pectinate micro-and nano-matrices as small molecule and protein drug carrier / Nurjaya Sumiran

Pectin has received a widespread application in oral drug delivery system design due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility and non-toxicity. This study aims to formulate sustained-release pectinate beads with diclofenac sodium as small molecule drug model by means of microwave technology and pectinate nanoparticles with insulin as macromolecular drug. The pectinate beads were prepared by an extrusion method with chitosan loading internally in the pectinate beads or externally via coacervation. These beads were treated by microwave at 80 W for 5, 10, 21 and 40 min, and had their drug release examined against physicochemical changes of matrices. Treatment of pectinate beads by microwave did not lead to a decrease, but an increase in the extent of drug released at 4 h of dissolution.