The Controlled Release of Abscisic Acid (ABA) Utilizing Alginate-Chitosan Gel Blends: A Synergistic Approach for an Enhanced Small-Molecule Delivery Controller

Gels. 2024 Mar 8;10(3):185. doi: 10.3390/gels10030185.

Abstract

The integration of abscisic acid (ABA) into a chitosan-alginate gel blend unveils crucial insights into the formation and stability of these two substances. ABA, a key phytohormone in plant growth and stress responses, is strategically targeted for controlled release within these complexes. This study investigates the design and characterization of this novel controlled-release system, showcasing the potential of alginate-chitosan gel blends in ABA delivery. Computational methods, including molecular dynamics simulations, are employed to analyze the structural effects of microencapsulation, offering valuable insights into complex behavior under varying conditions. This paper focuses on the controlled release of ABA from these complexes, highlighting its strategic importance in drug delivery systems and beyond. This controlled release enables targeted and regulated ABA delivery, with far-reaching implications for pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and plant stress response studies. While acknowledging context dependency, the paper suggests that the liberation or controlled release of ABA holds promise in applications, urging further research and experimentation to validate its utility across diverse fields. Overall, this work significantly contributes to understanding the characteristics and potential applications of chitosan-alginate complexes, marking a noteworthy advancement in the field of controlled-release systems.

Keywords: abscisic acid (ABA); alginate–chitosan blend; calcium cross-linking; delivery controller; ionic interaction.