HYDROGEL 3D PRINTED SCAFFOLD WITH ACYCLOVIR CONTAINING SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES: PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERIZATION

Abstract

Herpes viral infections have high prevalence globally. Acyclovir is used to treat HSV infections but has poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Consequently, drug frequency needs to be increased to maintain therapeutic concentrations. Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) can be used to sustain higher concentration of drugs in the plasma. Further, Gelatin Methacroyl (GelMA) hydrogel with adjustable properties can be used as a carrier for sustained delivery of biomolecules and medicines. The objective of this work was to develop a 3D printable GelMA hydrogel loaded with acyclovir containing SLN particles for sustained drug delivery. The hypothesis tested was that GelMA loaded with SLN can be printed and allows for sustained delivery of acyclovir.