Planta Med 2013; 79 - PN61
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1352404

Development and characterization of microparticles from Paullinia cupana var. sorbilis (Guaraná) semipurified extract produced by spray drying

JC Mello 1, T Klein 1, R Longhini 1, ML Bruschi 1
  • 1Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Department of Pharmacy, BR-87020 – 900, Maringá, Brazil

Introduction: Guaraná is well-known for its dietary and pharmaceutical potential and the semipurified extract of Guaraná (EPA) show antidepressant and panicolytic effects [1 – 2]. However, their low solubility, bioavailability and stability limit their use as components for pharmaceutical agents. For drug delivery, EPA in a micro/nanoparticle form is desirable for their optimized stability. Methods: In this study, EPA microparticles produced by spray drying process using a combination of maltodextrin (MD) and arabic gum (AG) as coating polymer. The drug content by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) according to catechin and epicatechin content and antioxidant activity (DPPH test) were evaluated. In vitro dissolution tests, using flow cell dissolution equipment, were carried out to investigate the influence of formulative parameters on EPA release from the microparticles. Results: The spray drying technique and the process conditions selected have given satisfying encapsulation efficiency (80 – 100%) and product yield (55 – 60%). The microencapsulation has improved the technological characteristics of the powders and has preserved the antioxidant properties of EPA. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed that EPA quantity had a significant influence on the microparticles (Figure 1). Conclusion: This spray drying technique can be used as an efficient and economic approach to produce EPA microparticles.

Fig. 1: SEM photomicrographs of the microparticles (2000X). 1, 2, 3 and 4: formulations of samples 1, 3, 12 and 13 respectively without EPA; A, B, C and D: samples 1, 3, 12 and 13 respectively.

Acknowledgements: Fundação Araucária, CNPq, CAPES

References:

[1] Otobone, F.J., Sanches, A.C.C, Nagae, R.L., Martins, J.V.C., Sela, V.R., Mello, J.C.P., Audi, E.A. 2007. Phytotherapy Research 21, 531 – 535.

[2] Roncon, C.M., de Almeida, C.B., Klein, T., Mello, J.C.P., Audi, E.A. 2011. Planta Medica 77, 236 – 241.