Scientists at St. Petersburg State University (SPBU) have created nanoparticles that ensure slow, controlled drug delivery into the body, GxP News reported. According to the researchers, the technology will reduce the likelihood of side effects and cut the number of daily doses required for chronic diseases. It is aimed primarily at patients with cardiovascular, oncological and respiratory conditions.
The nanoparticles are made of hydroxyapatite, a component of human bones and teeth, which gives them high biocompatibility, the scientists explained. Other molecules can be attached to the hydroxyapatite particles, making them suitable for use in drug transport systems within the body.
“Because the nanoparticles are extremely small, they will make it possible to achieve gradual release of the therapeutic substance in microdoses and a gentler onset of effect,” said Dmitry Tkachenko, a research assistant at the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry and a master’s student at SPBU.
The researchers tested their development by creating a prototype drug delivery system based on hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. They used sodium alginate as the carrier matrix and borage extract as the drug compound. The results confirmed that the nanoparticles release the active substance gradually and in predetermined doses.
