Capillary electrophoresis as a tool for the characterization of pentosan nanoparticles

Because capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) showed higher resolution for highly charged large carbohydrates and complex structures when compared to other chromatographic separation methods, it was chosen for the characterization of nanoparticles (NPs) of pentosan polysulfate (PPS). Thus, using the CZE technique, we developed a reliable, sensitive and rapid protocol that allowed the detection and characterization of PPS NPs. This protocol was able to determine the profile of both the NPs and the species of PPS entrapped into them, and to quantify free and bound PPS showing high reproducibility, acceptable accuracy and a good degree of precision. Moreover, it allowed the evaluation of the size and charge of the NPs. This protocol might be suitable for the characterization of other kinds of NPs also.

► A CZE protocol for characterization of pentosan (PPS) nanoparticles was developed.
► Protocol allowed quantitative and qualitative characterization of free/bound PPS.
► Nanoparticles seem to have negative charge, small size and homogeneous PPS species.
► Protocol showed high repeatability, reproducibility and good degree of precision.
► Pharmacological activity of nanoparticles before being bio-assayed may be predicted.