Encapsulation of protein within alginate-inulin matrix for targeted drug delivery system

By using sodium alginate and inulin as the core matrix, targeted release hydrogels were produced through ionotropic gelation method. As for model protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA) was chosen for in-vitro assessments. It appeared that amount of inulin had major impact on the encapsulation of BSA and also stability of hydrogels in simulated gastro intestinal fluid. The encapsulation efficiency of BSA was enhanced as the amount of inulin incorporated into the hydrogels was increased. In addition, only a little amount of BSA was released throughout 2 hours in simulated gastric fluid, SGF exposure. However, after changing into simulated intestinal fluid, SIF 100% of protein was released within 1.5 hours. Lower swelling index has been observed from alginate-inulin hydrogels in acidic condition (pH 1.2) as compared to alkaline medium, phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). This phenomenon is an indicative of pH responsive swelling activities. These hydrogels were characterized by Fourier-Transform Infared spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy for protein-excipients and hydrogels surface morphology, respectively. These developed alginate-inulin hydrogel has demonstrated high stability in acidic medium and good release efficiency at the targeted area.