A novel gel system was obtained by mixing aqueous solutions of tamarind seed xyloglucan (TSX) and Eriochrome Black T (EBT), an antiangiogenic compound. The shear-viscosity flow curves revealed that all the studies mixtures displayed a shear thinning behavior. Viscosity increased with increasing EBT concentrations. According to frequency sweep tests, mixtures at EBT concentration of 1.30% and 2.50% (w/v) in 1% (w/v) TSX formed a weak gel. The time sweep tests revealed that these mixtures remained as sol at room temperature (25 degrees C) for a long period of time but turned into gel in a short time at body temperature (37 degrees C). The in vitro EBT release profiles demonstrated sustained release of EBT. Loading concentration of EBT affected the gel strength and consequently the release mechanism of EBT. According to release kinetic analyses, the release profiles of 1.30% and 2.50% (w/v) EBT systems occur through an anomalous mechanism and Fickian diffusion, respectively. In conclusion, these EBT-TSX systems appear to be suitable as injectable implants for sustained delivery of EBT at a site of application, and as such they may be beneficial for the future treatment of solid malignant tumors.
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