Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan-Coated Pectin Aerogels: Curcumin Case Study

Abstract

The following study describes the preparation of pectin aerogels and pectin aerogels coated with an external layer of chitosan. For the preparation of chitosan-coated pectin aerogels, a modified coating procedure was employed. Since pectin as well as pectin aerogels are highly water soluble, a function of chitosan coating is to slow down the dissolution of pectin and consequently the release of the active substances. Textural properties, surface morphologies, thermal properties, and functional groups of prepared aerogels were determined. Results indicated that the coating procedure affected the textural properties of pectin aerogels, resulting in smaller specific surface areas of 276 m2/g, compared to 441 m2/g. However, chitosan-coated pectin aerogels still retained favorable properties for carriers of active substances. The case study for prepared aerogels was conducted with curcumin. Prior to in-vitro release studies, swelling studies were performed. Curcumin’s dissolution from both aerogels showed to be successful. Pectin aerogels released curcumin in 3 h showing a burst release profile. Chitosan-coated pectin aerogels prolonged curcumin release up to 24 h, thus showing a controlled release profile.

Optical pH Sensor Based on Immobilization Anthocyanin from Dioscorea alata L. onto Polyelectrolyte Complex Pectin–Chitosan Membrane for a Determination Method of Salivary pH

“…Thermal behavior of the manufactured PEC membranes was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) performed on a temperature range of 35–600 °C ( Figure 5 a). Initial broad minimum located on derrivative TGA (DTGA) curves at T peak of 58 °C is attributed to water loss moisture retained due to the membranes’ hydrophilicity [ 27 ]. More significant weight loss occurs within the temperature ranges of about 235–435 °C for chitosan and pectin–chitosan and around 260–373 °C for pectin, suggesting a process of polymer degradation/decomposition.…”

Influence of the Impregnation Technique on the Release of Esomeprazole from Various Bioaerogels

“…Moreover, pectin and alginate aerogels are promising candidates for impregnation of poorly water-soluble drugs in order to improve their bioavailability [ 10 ]. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that in order to prevent the rapid release of some drugs a more controlled release could be achieved by coating the gels [ 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. Chitosan consists of 2-acetamide-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopiranose and 2-amino-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopirnose monomers linked together by 1,4-glycosidic bonds.…”

“…It is a polycation consisting of protonated amino groups and is therefore only soluble in dilute acids with a pH below 6. The latter can be used as an advantage for slowing down and achieving more controlled release of impregnated drugs when used as a coating for water-soluble gels, such as pectin and alginate [ 12 , 16 , 17 ].…”

Biorefinery Approach for Aerogels

“…In addition, bio-sourced polymers are often biocompatible as well as biodegradable and many exhibit anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects [9,10]. As these properties are highly beneficial from a biomedical point of view, bio-aerogels are widely investigated for applications such as drug delivery [11], tissue engineering [12], wound dressings [13], and bio-sensing [14]. Thanks to their unique characteristics, including a high porosity, a low density and high specific surface area, bio-aerogels may also be used as food packaging [15], thermal insulation [16], catalysts and catalytic supports [17], as well as absorbents and adsorbents (e.g., for water purification) [18].…”