Genipin crosslinked drug-gelatin composite for drug transport and cytocompatibility

Gelatin-based drug carrier matrices have emerged as very promising class of delivery system. The purpose of this investigation was to develop drug loaded gelatin-based gels (composites). Gelatin matrices were crosslinked with genipin, a naturally occurring crosslinker for the release of indomethacin. Indomethacin, a low molecular weight and moderately hydrophobic, anti-inflammatory agent was incorporated into the gelatin matrices to form drug loaded gel composites for the release study. The gels were subjected to temperature-dependent oscillatory rheology. The result showed pouring temperature in the range of ∼3134°C for the un-crosslinked gels while the crosslinked gels did not show crossover point. Gels were studied for surface morphology using scanning electron microscopy and a porous network structure was observed. The release of indomethacin from the gels indicated an initial increase in the release rate with the increase in drug concentrations. It was observed that drug composites with higher drug concentration exhibited higher drug transport. Swelling and crosslinking played a crucial role in regulating the drug transport. Further, viability assay suggested biocompatibility of these matrices in vitro. Gel in vitro cell compatibility using live dead assay evaluated with AH-927 cell line indicated normal cell proliferation without any harmful effect and thus suggesting appropriateness of crosslinked composites as potential drug carrier.