Polycaprolactone/epoxide-functionalized silica composite microparticles for long-term controlled release of trans-chalcone

Abstract In this study, controlled release of trans-chalcone was achieved by using a polycaprolactone-based hybrid system as the drug carrier material. Encapsulation efficiency was obtained in the range of 70–75% for various formulations and in vitro release studies, conducted at 37 °C and pH 7.4, revealed slow profile reaching 60% cumulative release. As interpreted from kinetic modelling, drug release was controlled mainly by Fickian diffusion; polymer erosion did not contribute to the TC release. Difference in drug loading efficiencies of the hybrid and neat PCL microparticles was observed such that PCL microparticles had lower loading efficiency than the hybrid microparticles whereas the release profiles were similar. pH of the release medium had affected release profiles; acidic medium enhanced drug release. Characterization of the microparticles were realized by FT-IR, TGA, DSC, SEM and WCA which revealed key properties such as molecular dispersion state and hydrophilicity. With the results obtained, we concluded that our hybrid system has a significant potential for long term release of trans-chalcone.