Formulation and Characterization of Ocimum basilicum Seed and Chitosan to Fabricate Mucoadhesive-Based Nanoparticles via Ionic Gelation

Abstract

The development of mucoadhesive nanoparticles offers promising advancements in drug delivery systems by improving drug retention and controlled release at mucosal sites. This research focuses on the formulation and characterization of nanoparticles using Ocimum basilicum seed extract, known for its polysaccharide content, and chitosan, a cationic biopolymer, synthesized using ionic gelation. The nanoparticles were evaluated for their particle size, zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, mucoadhesive properties, and in vitro drug release. Results demonstrated that the nanoparticles exhibited optimal size, strong mucoadhesion, high drug encapsulation, and sustained drug release properties, highlighting their potential as an efficient carrier system for mucosal drug delivery.