Triblock copolymer Pluronic®F127 sustains insulin release and reduces initial burst of microspheres—in vitro and in vivo study

In many cases, initial release of drugs from microparticles is undesirable. In the present study, Pluronic^®F127, which shows thermosensitive characteristic, was used for controlling both the initial release and the sustained release of insulin from microspheres. Calcium-alginate insulin microspheres were prepared by emulsion technology and dispersed in a thermosensitive semisolid gel, the PF127. In vitro study demonstrated that PF127 could protect the activity of insulin in some extent and control the initial release and sustained release of insulin well. The results of in vivo hypoglycemic experiment carried out on diabetic rats also displayed a well correlation with in vitro release patterns. The results suggested that PF127 could sustain insulin release through a subcutaneous injection, and this material was available to deliver insulin aiming for prolonged and smooth hypoglycemic function.