Optimization of Chitosan Nanoparticle Synthesis Parameters for Enhanced Gamma Oryzanol Loading

Abstract

The present study focuses on the formulation, characterization, and evaluation of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with gamma oryzanol (CG nanoparticles) aimed at enhancing its antioxidant and therapeutic efficacy. Nanoparticles were synthesized via a solvent evaporation technique using varying ratios of chitosan and drug. The prepared formulations were assessed for percentage yield, drug entrapment efficiency (EE), particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and morphological characteristics. The percentage yield ranged between 81.45–98.12%, while EE varied from 68.34±3.15% to 94.15±1.24%. Particle size analysis showed nanometric sizes between 710.02±1.20 nm to 904.25±1.12 nm, with PDI values indicating acceptable uniformity for pulmonary delivery. SEM imaging confirmed spherical, moderately agglomerated nanoparticles, and DSC and FTIR analyses indicated significant drug-polymer interaction and amorphous nature of the encapsulated drug. In vitro drug release studies demonstrated sustained release behavior over 24 hours, with CG5 showing the highest cumulative release. Antioxidant potential evaluated via DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays confirmed significant free radical scavenging capacity. These findings suggest that CG nanoparticles could be a promising carrier for gamma oryzanol with enhanced therapeutic potential.