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Rutgers scientists have developed a class of biodegradable and biocompatible polymers that chemically incorporate bioactive molecules, such as antioxidants and antimicrobials, in the backbone of the polymers for sustained release.
About
Many cosmetically relevant bioactive molecules, such as salicylic acid, kojic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, and sinapic acid, have been successfully incorporated into the polymers. These polymers are easy to synthesize, and have high drug loading (50-90% is the drug/bioactive by weight). They are fully biodegradable, and upon hydrolytic degradation release bioactives in a controlled manner over a period of several hours to a few months. The polymer degradation kinetics can be tuned by the choice of the linker molecules, depending on the desired release profile. The linker acids (e.g., glycolic acid which is widely used in skin care products) released upon degradation could also be functional for personal care and cosmetic purposes. Further, polymerization stabilizes the bioactives in products, prolonging the shelf-lives and making them aesthetically more pleasing. The salicylic acid polymers can be sterilized via e-beam and gamma radiation procedures for commercial purposes. Other than free powders, the polymers can be formulated into microspheres, hydrogels, electrospun membranes, coatings, and films, etc..
Key Benefits
Flexible in conjugating to a variety of bioactive molecules, including salicylic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, & sinapic acid, etc. Controlled and localized release of bioactives Tunable dose and release profiles Stabilizes bioactives/drugs Versatile formulations High biocompatibility and biodegradability Efficient synthesis with high purity & the potential for scaling up Possibility to incorporate other actives (e.g. NSAIDs & antibiotics) for synergistic effect
Applications
Cosmetics and personal care; anti-oxidants; anti-aging; acne treatment; sun protection, skin pigmentation reduction.