Development of chitosan/hydrolyzed collagen interaction product-based microparticles for the treatment of respiratory tract infections

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) represent a significant global health issue, particularly for vulnerable population, such as children, the elderly, or patients with immunosuppression. In this context, the aim of the present work was the development of Chitosan/Hydrolyzed Collagen-based microparticles (Mps) as a pulmonary drug delivery system (PDDS) for the treatment of RTIs. Mps were produced via spray-drying and composed of chitosan (Cs), one of the most widely used polysaccharides in PDDS, and hydrolyzed collagen (HC), another promising material for the development of PDDS that has not yet been fully explored. The formation of an interaction product between Cs and HC occurred during the spray-drying process and was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy and thermal analysis. Mps were characterized in terms of morphology, particle size, zeta potential, aerodynamic performance, swelling behavior and biodegradation profile in simulated lung fluid. Mps biocompatibility was also assessed on adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial (A549) cells. Finally, Mps were characterized in vitro for antibacterial properties and their ability to inhibit bacterial adhesion to S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. An enhanced antibacterial effect was observed for Mps with respect to the pristine materials (Cs and HC) and their physical mixture. Moreover, Mps were also able to inhibit bacteria adhesion to epithelial cells.