NODES_INNDIANA_Z108_Mucin-Polymer Interactions; Mucoadhesive Behavior of Dextrin-derived Hydrogels for Oral Drug Delivery

This study investigates pH-sensitive dextrin- and cyclodextrin-based nanosponges as mucoadhesive oral drug delivery systems for apomorphine, a poorly bioavailable and chemically unstable drug used in Parkinson’s disease. Nanosponges crosslinked with pyromellitic dianhydride or citric acid exhibited tunable swelling, strong mucoadhesion, high drug loading, and sustained intestinal release, while protecting apomorphine from degradation during long-term storage. The results demonstrate the potential of dextrin-based nanosponges as smart, pH-responsive carriers for improving oral bioavailability of drugs relevant to neurodegenerative diseases.