Synthesis of magnetically active interpenetrating polymer network for drug release

Interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN) were formed involving hydrophobic polybutyl acrylate (PBA) and hydrophilic poly hydroxyethyl acrylate (PHEA). PBA prepolymer was first formed in presence of ferric oxide nanoparticles (<۳۰nm) under continuous stirring through free radical polymerization. ۲-Hydroxyethylacrylate monomer premixed with crosslinker and initiator was added to it and the reaction was allowed to continue till the gel was formed. The ferric oxide particles were synthesized using thermal arc plasma technique. The particles were characterized by XRD, TEM. The magnetization was determined by VSM. Magnetic response of the IPN was assured after embedment of the iron oxide particles. The signature of particle embedment in IPN gel bulk was confirmed by FTIR and SEM micrographs. Swelling study in three different pH solutions of ۴, ۶, ۹ showed maximum swelling in alkaline pH (۹). In vitro biocompatibility was tested on plant cell as well as on bacteria, E-coli. Variation in crosslink density of the IPN in presence of the iron oxide particles was tested and observed to be affecting the drug loading and/or releasing capability of the network. The drug loading and release test of the IPNs with and without iron oxide nanoparticles has been studied for multivitamins, salicylic acid and acetaminophen drugs. 

Keywords:

Interpenetrating Polymer network , Iron Oxide , Nano particles , Cytotoxicity , Drug loading , Drug release