Smart hollow microspheres of chondroitin sulfate conjugates and magnetite nanoparticles for magnetic vector

Smart hollow microspheres composed of vinyled-chondroitin sulfate conjugates (CSπ) and magnetite nanoparticles were obtained by the intermediate of a multiple emulsion in absence of a surfactant, attributable to stabilizing properties of the CS. It was formed an oil–water multiple emulsion in which the CS played a role as an anionic stabilizer for magnetite nanoparticles via complexation. Iron oxides were bonded to the microspheres by the formation of a complex of Fe3+ ions on the crystalline phase with oxygen atoms at the carboxyl groups without their magnetic properties being affected. The average crystal size of embedded magnetite nanoparticles was approximately 16.5 nm, indicative of a good dispersion in microspheres. Furthermore, the introduction of iron oxides resulted in microspheres with a higher diameter and a narrower particle size distribution.

Smart hollow microspheres composed of vinyled-chondroitin sulfate conjugates and magnetite nanoparticles were obtained by the intermediate of an oil–water multiple emulsion in absence of a surfactant, attributable to stabilizing properties of the chondroitin sulfate.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (73 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Smart hollow microspheres composed of vinyled-chondroitin sulfate conjugates and magnetite were obtained by the intermediate of an oil–water multiple emulsion in absence of a surfactant, attributable to stabilizing properties of the CS.
► The microspheres represent a class of unique material with particular importance in terms of state-of-the-art applications in pharmaceutical formulations by their exposition to a remote magnetic field for the controlled delivery of drugs.
► The incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles into hollow chondroitin sulfate microspheres is a motivating way to obtain a smart material exhibiting new therapeutic properties, in view that this type of architecture could carry a supplemental amount of drugs on their hollowed interior.