Development and characterization of galactomannan acetate nanoparticles

Abstract

[Excerpt] Nanoparticles from natural polysaccharides are a good alternative for synthetic compounds due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, hydrophilicity and protective properties. Galactomannans are neutral, water-soluble polysaccharides highly used in food industry. They have potential for the preparation of nanoparticles that can be used as a carrier for functional compounds for food and pharmaceutical applications. The present work aimed at developing nanoparticles from guar gum through acetylation of the galactomannan and using the solvent diffusion method for nanoparticle formation. The obtained nanoparticles were characterized by means of dynamic light scattering (DLS) (size and polydispersivity), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Guar gum was acetylated through solubilization in formamide at 54 ºC. Then pyridine and acetic anhydride were added and left under stirring for 48 h at 54 ºC. The obtained solution was precipitated and purified in water. After successive washings with water the precipitate was dried at 35 ºC during 48 h. The nanoparticles were obtained through the solvent diffusion method by solubilization of acetylated galactomannan solution in DMSO that was then dispersed in water. [...]