In vitro Characterization of Microspheres Containing Chemically Cross-Linked Gummy Exudates of Cochlospermum religiosum

Background: The polymeric hydrocolloids of natural origin such as gums and mucilages have their own significance in food and pharmaceutical industries due to safety, cost, biodegradability, biocompatibility, etc. Objective: This study includes the assessment of feasibility of gummy exudates of Cochlospermum religiosum for development of microspheres through emulsification technique. Methods: The effects of exudates concentration, glutaraldehyde amount and process temperature were analyzed on particle-size and swelling dynamics of developed microspheres. The formulations were also characterized by thermal decomposition and powder X-ray diffraction technique to assess the effect of crosslinking. Results: The photomicrographs of preparations revealed the formation of microspheres with smooth, spherical and free-flowing nature. The swelling dynamics followed Fick’s diffusion mechanism for swelling media. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed the formation of ether-linkage after crosslinking of exudates by glutaraldehyde. The thermogravimetric curves disclosed the formation of strong bonds during crosslinking. Conclusion: The ease of gummy exudates of Cochlospermum religiosum for microspheres formation ascribed the potential of these formulations to incorporate therapeutic agent(s) to be applied as novel drug-carriers.