Alginate nanoparticles protect ferrous from oxidation: Potential iron delivery system

- A system with ability to protect iron in the reduced form.
- Alginate nanoparticles encapsulate ferrous ions.
- Delivery of iron from the system is pH dependant.
- Initial zero order kinetics for iron release are followed by slow release according to the Korsmeyer-Peppas model for drug release.
- Potential system for oral delivery of iron.

A novel, efficient delivery system for iron (Fe2+) was developed using the alginate biopolymer. Iron loaded alginate nanoparticles were synthesized by a controlled ionic gelation method and was characterized with respect to particle size, zeta potential, morphology and encapsulation efficiency. Successful loading was confirmed with Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric Analysis. Electron energy loss spectroscopy study corroborated the loading of ferrous into the alginate nanoparticles. Iron encapsulation (70%) was optimized at 0.06% Fe (w/v) leading to the formation of iron loaded alginate nanoparticles with a size range of 15-30 nm and with a negative zeta potential (−38 mV). The in vitro release studies showed a prolonged release profile for 96 h. Release of iron was around 65-70% at pH of 6 and 7.4 whereas it was less than 20% at pH 2.The initial burst release upto 8 h followed zero order kinetics at all three pH values. All the release profiles beyond 8 h best fitted the Korsmeyer-Peppas model of diffusion. Non Fickian diffusion was observed at pH 6 and 7.4 while at pH 2 Fickian diffusion was observed.

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