Amalgamation of nano and 3-D printing technology: Design, optimization, and assessment
Hardik Rana, Dipika Chavada, Vaishali Thakkar
Abstract
Personalized medicine is the need of today's era, as one therapy does not fit all. The study aims to develop a novel patient-customized formulation using the integration of 3-D printing and Nanotechnology concepts. Valsartan (VLS) was chosen as a model drug for the study due to its poor bioavailability and dose-dependent toxicity. The Polycaprolactone (PCL)-VLS bionanoparticles (PCVBio) were formulated using a modified solvent evaporation method, inculcating the approach of Quality by Design (QbD). The amount of PCL and Polaxomer-188 (PLX) significantly influenced the PCVBio properties, which central composite design (CCD) ascertained. The results of DSC confirm the conversion of crystalline to amorphous structure. The zeta potential, PDI, and particle size ensure stability and nano size. The optimized PCVBio was further loaded into the multi-channel 3-D printed tablet (M3DPT). M3DPT was formulated by the fused deposition modeling method. The process parameters, % infill, and layer height significantly influenced the tablet's quality. The PCVbio M3DPT was able to release the VLS up to 12h. The optimal formulation was found stable and effective. The new conjugated advanced formulation will improve the effectiveness, safety, and patient adherence. It unlocks the new research direction toward improving patients' lives.