Preparation, physicochemical characterization and antioxidant activity of diphenyl diselenide-loaded poly(lactic acid) nanoparticles

In this study, we developed, characterized and evaluated the antioxidant activity of poly (lactic acid) nanoparticles containing diphenyl diselenide (PhSe)2. Nanoparticles were characterized in terms of mean particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release profile, physical stability, polymer-drug interactions and thermal properties. Also, the antioxidant activity of nanoparticles on hypochlorous acid (HOCl) was assessed. Nanoparticles presented a mean size of 210 nm, had low polydispersity, zeta potential of −24 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency over 90%. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction results showed (PhSe)2 is dispersed in PLA matrix in an amorphous state. Lyophilized nanoparticles maintained physical stability over three months, while nanoparticles dispersed in water did not present stability over 7 days. In vitro release assay was characterized by a biphasic release pattern with burst effect in 8 h followed by a sustained release diffusion governed over 192 h. Nanoencapsulation did not alter the antioxidant activity of (PhSe)2 on HOCl. The study concludes these properties of (PhSe)2-loaded nanoparticles can be useful to extend the biological effects of (PhSe)2.