Development of Resistant Starch Film Coated Microparticles for an Oral Colon‐Specific Drug Delivery
Anum Khan, Bibi Amna, Huma Ali, Asim Ur Rehman, Maimoona Qindeel, Muhammad Irfan, Aamer Ali Shah, Malik Badshah, Fariha Hasan, Samiullah Khan
Abstract
Abstract In this study, novel enzymatically modified resistant starch type III (EM‐RSIII) derived drug loaded microspheres are developed for oral colon‐specific delivery of ciprofloxacin HCl, used as a model drug. EM‐RS III is enzymatically prepared using starch hydrolyzing enzymes amylase and pullulanase. The prebiotic effect of EM‐RSIII is successfully scrutinized for promoting the growth of probiotic bacteria, for example, Lactobacillus reuteri . Drug‐loaded microspheres are synthesized from the EM‐RSIII through a single emulsion evaporation method. The pH‐sensitive drug‐loaded microspheres are characterized through scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Release studies confirm the stability of drug‐loaded microspheres at acidic pH while sustained release is observed at pH 7.8 demonstrating a site‐specific delivery of drug to the colon. The in vitro release mechanism of drug is evaluated using various kinetic models. The study also reveals that EM‐RSIII‐derived microspheres are biodegradable and are degraded by the natural microflora of the colon, which is indicated by stimulating growth of probiotic bacteria. The microspheres are exploited as drug carriers for the colon‐specific release of ciprofloxacin HCl, and its encapsulation is further confirmed from the antibacterial activity.