Gels and sponges nanocomposites based in chitosan, poly (n-vinyl caprolactam) and sio2 applied as drug delivery system

Abstract

Chitosan (Ch) is a suitable biomaterial for biological applications like drug delivery systems (DDS) due to biocompatibility, cationic responsiveness, and adjustable morphology forming nanoparticles, films, sponges, etc. For these reasons, this study reports the results of the synthesis and characterization of chitosan composite with poly (n-vinyl caprolactam) (PNVCL) and SiO2 for the application as DDS for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). The materials loaded with clotrimazole (CTZ) were obtained. The physical-chemical properties show that the materials have good thermal stability considering the application. The biomechanical properties are adequate and can be adjusted according to the insertion of PNVCL or PNVCL-SiO2. The materials were tested for activity against Candida species, and the antifungal activity was maintained with the drug associated with the materials. Cytotoxicity studies using female genital tract cell lines were performed, showing biocompatibility. According to the results obtained so far, the chitosan sponges and its composites appear to be an excellent formulation to be used in the treatment of VVC because they can maintain the antifungal activity of CTZ and due to their biocompatibility.