A pH-responsive biopolymer-based multiple emulsion prepared in a helicoidal contactor for chemotherapeutics delivery

Abstract

Among biopolymers, pH-responsive ones have much potential for drug delivery systems by exploiting the pH gradient between physiological and pathological states. In this paper multiple emulsions with a pH-responsive biopolymer for controlled drug delivery in brain tumor treatment were discussed. The characteristic and rheological properties of multiple emulsions, biopolymer adsorption, zeta potential, and release processes were examined. The results showed higher drug release rates in the acidic tumor microenvironment compared to the simulated conditions of normal cells.