Abstract

Drug delivery systems (DDSs) improve therapy through controlled release and targeted delivery, utilizing recognition elements, therapeutic agents, and carriers. Among various recognition elements, aptamers have gained attention for their high affinity and specificity. Gelatin, a biocompatible and biodegradable material, shows potential for DDSs due to its favorable properties. This study investigated gelatin-based particles for aptamer delivery, focusing on their preparation, characterization, and evaluation. Gelatin particles loaded with platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) aptamer were prepared using glutaraldehyde as a crosslinker, with sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) and Tween 20 as stabilizers. The particles were characterized through spectroscopy techniques, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The reaction between aldehyde and amine groups was confirmed, and the effect of surfactants on particle formation was examined. Aptamer release and stability were also studied. The ninhydrin assay and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed successful crosslinking between gelatin and glutaraldehyde, forming stable particles. Zeta potential measurements showed that both SGP and TGP maintained stability within the range of -30 to -60 mV. Particle size analysis via DLS and SEM revealed that increasing surfactant concentration led to larger particles, with sizes ranging from 95 to 120 nm. Weight loss studies demonstrated that SGP followed zero-order kinetics while TGP exhibited first-order degradation, with both retaining over 90% of their weight within 72 hours. Aptamer release studies showed that SGP had a higher release rate than TGP, correlating with their degradation profiles. Finally, electrophoresis confirmed the integrity of released aptamers, emphasizing the protective role of gelatin particles. Overall, gelatin-based particles show promise for aptamer delivery, offering stability and controlled release. These findings contribute to the advancement of effective DDSs for targeted therapeutic delivery.

Key words: Gelatin particle, PDGF-BB aptamer, Surfactant, Drug delivery systems