Development and evaluation of PLGA polymer based nanoparticles of quercetin

Quercetin is the most abundant antioxidant found in the human diet. Low aqueous solubility of quercetin limits its bioavailability and hence therapeutic effects. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to develop a poly lactide-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) polymer based nanoparticles of quercetin with a view to improve its aqueous solubility and examine the effect on its antioxidant and diuretic properties. Nanoparticles of quercetin were developed by single emulsion-solvent evaporation technique and evaluated in vitro for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transforms infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy, particle size, polydispersity index and drug entrapment efficiency. Among the five different formulations (F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5), F2 and F3 were optimized with an average particle size of 189 nm and 186 nm and high entrapment values of 86.48%, 83.71%, respectively. SEM images of confirmed that prepared nanoparticles were spherical in shape with a smooth surface. In vitro release and anti-oxidant activity confirmed significant results. Furthermore, its in vivo diuretic activity was much better as compared to pure quercetin. The overall results suggest that PLGA polymer based nanoparticle could be a potential option for quercetin delivery.