Nanocomposites (pyrophyllite clay based): kinetic aspects of biomolecules release

НАЦИОНАЛНИ ПРОЈЕКАТ

Project resume:

Nanocomposite materials can be defined as multiphase materials, in which at least one dimension is less than 100 nm. Recent research based on nanocomposites goes in the direction of synthesizing hybrid materials in which the organic polymer matrix is ​​replaced by an inorganic matrix of layered structure. The synthesis of such hybrid materials enhances the binding of bioactive molecules/drugs and inorganic matrices through two mechanisms: adsorption on the surface and intercalation of biomolecules/drugs within the layered structure of the inorganic matrix.

Better adsorption of bioactive molecules/drugs has been shown to contribute to improved activity, better solubility, and stability of bioactive molecules/drugs. One of the suitable matrices that have a very layered structure are minerals of volcanic origin, clays. Clays have the role of both excipients and active substances in the pharmaceutical formulations. The incorporation of bioactive molecules/drugs within the layers of the inorganic matrix can affect the kinetics of release of bioactive molecules/drugs from the inorganic matrix, which can serve as an excellent base for improving the delivery system of pharmacologically active substances. The advantage of using these inorganic matrices is that their application also affects the viscosity; viscosity increasment slows down the diffusion of bioactive molecules and increases the length of the diffusion path. Inorganic matrices of the layered structure are very accessible materials, subject to ion exchange and above all biocompatible materials.

In this study, pyrophyllite clay, Al₂Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂, will be used as an inorganic matrix. The aim is to gain insight into the kinetics and mechanism of release of bioactive substances/drugs from the structure of pyrophyllite. The mechanism will be determined on the basis of kinetic parameters, which will also provide information regarding the stability and solubility of biomolecules/drugs dispersed within the pyrophyllite structure.

Rheological and antimicrobial characteristics will also be the subject of research. In addition to the scientific contribution, the project aims to encourage cooperation between the scientific research community and the economy and, to present and develop ideas on potential applications of pyrophyllite clay as suitable bioactive molecules/drugs carrier and human use.