Development of biomaterials based controlled release systems for use in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

In this thesis, p(HEMA-MAPA) nanopolymers were synthesized by mini emulsion polymerization method for controlled release of an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor Galantamine hydrobromide (GAL) approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) which is used in the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease. SEM-EDS analysis was performed to determine the amount of elements on the surface and morphological properties of the synthesized nanopolymers. FTIR analysis was performed to determine chemical structures and particle size was determined by Zeta-Sizer device. As a result of SEM analysis, the surface morphology of the nanopolymers was found to be spherical. The specific surface area of the nanopolymers was calculated as 844.38 m2/g. The maximum adsorption amount was found to be 109.29 mg/g at a 1:39 polymer-drug ratio, 25 ̊C, 120 minutes contact time, pH 5.5, 250 μg/mL GAL concentration under the optimization of the adsorption conditions of GAL to nanopolymers. Langmuir isotherm was found to be fitted best with the adsorption of GAL onto p(HEMA- MAPA). In vitro controlled release studies of GAL loaded on nanopolymer under optimum conditions were done by dialysis method. Keywords: Alzheimer's Disease, Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, Nanopolymer, Galantamine hydrobromide, Controlled Release Systems, Mini emulsion polymerization