In vitro biocompatibility and mucoadhesion of montmorillonite chitosan nanocomposite: A new drug delivery

A "Clay Bio Polymer Nanocomposite" (CBPN) to be used in drug release was prepared by dispersion of montmorillonite (Mt) particles in chitosan (Ch) solution. The obtained hybrid material was characterized for in vitro biocompatibility on Caco-2 cell cultures. Cytotoxicity and cell proliferation of the nanocomposite were tested, comparing results with free Ch and Mt. Cell proliferation was assessed both by WST-1 test and wound-healing measurements by means of Image Analysis Software. The last method is a proof of concept test that has the advantage of direct visualization and quantification of cell growth. Nanocomposite was also characterized for hydration (water uptake) pattern and mucoadhesive properties, which were considered as important features for the application of this material in modified release systems. Results showed that the prepared CBPN showed good biocompatibility in the range 5-500 mu g/ml, being also able to effectively stimulate cell proliferation. Moreover, nanocomposite possessed mucoadhesive properties combined with low solubility in acidic environment. We conclude that interaction between Ch and Mt produced a new biohybrid material that can be considered as promising candidate for modified drug delivery formulations. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.