SALICYLIC ACID INCORPORATION IN Fe₃O₄-BSA NANOPARTICLES FOR DRUG RELEASE

The controlled release of Salicylic Acid (SA) influences the concentration and collateral effects of the drug. This release refers to the matrix in which the SA is incorporated. Among the matrices, Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (NPs) stand out, for transporting drugs to specific sites. The functionalization of Fe₃O₄ by bovine serum albumin (BSA) can improve colloidal and chemical stability, in addition to increasing interactions with drugs. Thus, understanding the release kinetics of the AS incorporated in Fe₃O₄-BSA is essential to improve the controlled release. The study aimed the synthesis, characterization and release of the SA into the Fe₃O₄-BSA NPs. The results showed the functionalization of the Fe₃O₄-BSA NPs was effective and the average size was below 30 nm. The NPs showed colloidal stability above the pH of 7.5 which can be used as a drug carrier in blood plasma. Drug encapsulation into the NPs system was efficient (~91%) with about 30% of drug loading capability. The kinetic results showed the SA release mechanism was controlled by diffusion. The conclusion is that the incorporation of SA in Fe₃O₄-BSA NPs led to a release of SA in the first six hours, reaching equilibrium at 0.265 mg mL^-1; and 1.83 mg.

Keywords:
iron oxide; nanoparticles; functionalization; drug delivery