| Autor: |
Lima CSA; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil., Varca JPRO; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil., Nogueira KM; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil., Fazolin GN; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil., Freitas LF; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil., Souza EW; Department of Polymers, Technology College (Fatec), São Paulo 03694-000, Brazil., Lugão AB; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil., Varca GHC; Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil. |
| Abstrakt: |
Papain is a therapeutic enzyme with restricted applications due to associated allergenic reactions. Papain nanoparticles have shown to be safe for biomedical use, although a method for proper drug loading and release remains to be developed. Thus, the objective of this work was to develop and assess the stability of papain nanoparticles in a prototype semi-solid formulation suitable for dermatological or topical administrations. Papain nanoparticles of 7.0 ± 0.1 nm were synthesized and loaded into carboxymethylcellulose- and poly(vinyl alcohol)-based gels. The formulations were then assayed for preliminary stability, enzyme activity, cytotoxicity studies, and characterized according to their microstructures and protein distribution. The formulations were suitable for papain nanoparticle loading and provided a stable environment for the nanoparticles. The enzyme distribution along the gel matrix was homogeneous for all the formulations, and the proteolytic activity was preserved after the gel preparation. Both gels presented a slow release of the papain nanoparticles for four days. Cell viability assays revealed no potential cytotoxicity, and the presence of the nanoparticles did not alter the microstructure of the gel. The developed systems presented a potential for biomedical applications, either as drug delivery systems for papain nanoparticles and/or its complexes. |
