Gliclazide (G) is used to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D), and also has anti-platelet, anti-radical, and anti-inflammatory effects. G has poor water solubility and high inter-individual variations in absorption, limiting its application in type 1 diabetes (T1D). The bile acid, chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), has permeation-enhancing effects. Sodium alginate (SA) was used to microencapsulate G and CDCA to produce control (G-SA) and test (G-CDCA-SA) microcapsules. Both microcapsules showed uniform structure, morphology, and good stability profiles. CDCA reduced G-release at pH 7.8, while G-release was negligible at lower pH values in both microcapsules. CDCA incorporation resulted in less swelling and stronger microcapsules, suggesting improved stability.
Keywords: artificial cell microencapsulation; bile acids; chenodeoxycholic acid; diabetes; gliclazide.