Characterization and In Vitro Study of Surface Modified PLA Microspheres Treated with NaOH

By : M. M. S. Mohd Sabee , Z. A. Abdul Hamid , N. A. Kamalaldin , B. H. Yahaya

Page No: 191-200

Abstract
The development in drug delivery systems (DDS) is moving towards the usage of biodegradable polymeric materials as therapeutic drug vehicles. One of the polymers commonly used is poly lactic acid (PLA) which is having desired properties including biocompatible, biodegradable and has good mechanical properties. But, its hydrophobicity is not preferable and thus, several modifications have been made to make PLA microspheres to be more hydrophilic so that it could reduce chances of adverse reaction. This research investigated the effect of surface modification with Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) at different concentrations on the PLA microspheres properties and their interaction towards cell proliferations. Morphological changes of modified PLA microspheres have been confirmed via SEM imaging. Confirmation of increased hydrophilicity has been evaluated using FTIR and contact angle. The in vitro assay showed that both microspheres of neat PLA and PLA treated with NaOH were non-toxic to cell.

Authors :
M. M. S. Mohd Sabee and Z. A. Abdul Hamid : Biomaterials Niche Group, School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 14300 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
N. A. Kamalaldin and B. H. Yahaya : Regenerative Medicine Cluster, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia