Preparation and characterization of nano-antioxidant via ionically cross-linked silymarin nanoparticles with chitosan polymer as a carrier

This study investigates the preparation and characterization of nano-antioxidant formulations using ionic cross-linking between silymarin and chitosan polymer to produce Silymarin-Chitosan Nanoparticles (S-CsNPs). Silymarin, Silybum marianum, is renowned for its hepatoprotective properties, attributed to its antioxidant activity. However, its clinical efficacy is limited by poor oral bioavailability, primarily due to low water solubility and rapid systemic clearance. To address these challenges, this research uses nanotechnology to enhance silymarin s solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Through ionic gelation methods, silymarin is encapsulated within chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer, to protect it from physicochemical degradation and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Initial findings highlight the potential of this nanoparticulate system in improving dissolution. Based on the results, silymarin was effectively loaded onto chitosan. SEM analysis showed that the size of the nano-silymarin particles ranged from 25.81 to 43.03 nm. Additionally, XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the S-CsNPs. The study also observed a relatively smooth surface and homogeneous distribution of the S-CsNPs particles.