Biodegradable polymer microspheres have been extensively developed as drug carriers that alleviate burst release and control drug release profiles. In this study, we report a simple method to develop double-layered microspheres for controlled and sust...
Biodegradable polymer microspheres have been extensively developed as drug carriers that alleviate burst release and control drug release profiles. In this study, we report a simple method to develop double-layered microspheres for controlled and sustained drug release. Double layered microspheres were prepared using PLGA and natural hydrophilic polymer dextran by a simple method based on an emulsion-solvent evaporation method. Microspheres had a double layered structure with dextran layer in the core and PLGA on the surface due to phase separation and encapsulated doxorubicin as a model drug in their core. The molecular weight and concentration of PLGA dominated the structure, in vitro degradation and drug release profiles of microspheres. Dextran/PLGA double- layered microspheres had a diameter about 200 m and alleviated initial burst release. Drug release profiles from dextran/PLGA double-layered microspheres can becontrolled by manipulating the thickness of shell of the microspheres. We anticipate great potential of dextran/PLGA double-layered microspheres for controlled and sustained drug delivery, given their simple formulation and the control of drug release profiles.