Chitosan Derivatives in Macromolecular Co-assembly Nanogels with Potential for Biomedical Applications.

Maleoyl-chitosan/poly(aspartic acid) nanogels were developed and characterized in order to assess its suitability for biomedical applications. Thus, the physicochemical properties were investigated and correlated with the composition of the new structures. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements, correlated with Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, demonstrated that nanogels size distribution was narrow with average diameter between 186 nm and 246 nm, and presented positive zeta potential values. The sensitivity of nanogels at pH and temperature was also evaluated. Nanogels loaded with amoxicillin showed a controlled release profile dependent on nanogels content. The formulations loaded with amoxicillin had antibacterial properties and the cytotoxicity tests indicated a good in vivo biocompatibility. In conclusion, the new synthesised polyelectrolyte nanogels, which can provide a stable environment for the encapsulated drugs, can be used as a multi-functional platform for administration of antimicrobial agents from the spectrum of antibiotics that have a very poor bio-distribution.