Development of a novel AMX-loaded PLGA/zein microsphere for root canal disinfection

Biomed Mater. 2010 Oct;5(5):055008. doi: 10.1088/1748-6041/5/5/055008. Epub 2010 Sep 15.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop polymeric biodegradable microspheres (MSs) of poly(D-L lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and zein capable of delivering amoxicillin (AMX) at significant levels for root canal disinfection. PLGA/zein MSs were prepared using a spray-drying technique. The systems were characterized in terms of particle size, morphology, drug loading and in vitro release. Drug levels were reached to be effective during the intracanal dressing in between visits during the endodontic treatment. In vitro release studies were carried out to understand the release profile of the MSs. Antimicrobial activity of AMX was performed by antibiograms. Enterococcus faecalis was the bacteria selected due to its prevalence in endodontic failure. Drug microencapsulation yielded MSs with spherical morphology and an average particle size of between 5 and 38 µm. Different drug-release patterns were obtained among the formulations. Release features related to the MSs were strongly dependent on drug nature as it was demonstrated by using a hydrophobic drug (indomethacin). Finally, AMX-loaded MSs were efficient against E faecalis as demonstrated by the antibiogram results. In conclusion, PLGA/zein MSs prepared by spray drying may be a useful drug delivery system for root canal disinfection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amoxicillin / chemistry*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / chemistry
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
  • Drug Compounding
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Enterococcus faecalis / drug effects
  • Lactic Acid / chemistry*
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Microspheres
  • Molecular Structure
  • Particle Size
  • Polyglycolic Acid / chemistry*
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Root Canal Therapy*
  • Zein / chemistry*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Polymers
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polyglycolic Acid
  • Lactic Acid
  • Amoxicillin
  • Zein