Novel cellulose-Carbopol gels for oral cavity applications
Joanna Niewęgłowska, Dr. Dawid Łysik, Assoc. Prof. Joanna Mystkowska
Department of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45C, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
Objectives
The rapid degradation of active substances in the oral cavity is one of the main problems of gel delivery systems. This is due to insufficient adhesion of the gel to the mucosa and the surface of the dental prosthesis, as well as washing out of the preparation by saliva. Cellulose derivatives and Carbopol are promising bioadhesive polymers that can be used in oral applications. Using bioadhesive gels ensures the maintenance of an appropriate therapeutic concentration of the substance. It makes it possible to extend the drug's contact time with the mucous membrane. This is of particular importance in combating bacterial and fungal infections.
Materials and Methods
We prepared gels using cellulose derivatives and Carbopol 940. The study presents research on oral gels' rheological, lubrication, and wetting properties. We used shear rheometry over a wide range of shear amplitude, frequency, and temperature to evaluate rheological properties. The friction coefficient was measured using a ball ― 3 plate method and a shear rheometer. The contact angle of prepared gels was measured on acrylic and polydimethylsiloxane polymers.
Results
Compared to commercial gels, preparations made with cellulose derivatives and Carbopol 940 have superior and more consistent rheological properties, such as dynamic viscosity, storage modulus, and loss modulus. Moreover, the gels formulated using these ingredients have a lower coefficient of friction and better wettability.
Conclusions
Hydrogels have become important in recent years due to the countless applications discovered and progress made by researchers. Many of them are made of natural compounds, which is necessary to significantly reduce pollutants and the possibility of their integration into the human body without exposing oneself to any risk. Natural polysaccharides that produce hydrogels, such as cellulose and its derivatives, have favorable rheological properties.
This scientific work was realized in the frame of works, No. W/WM-IIB/9/2023 financed from research funds of the Ministry of Education and Science, Poland.