Cucurbit[n]urils (n = 6–8) used as host molecules on supramolecular complexes formed with two different drugs: Emodin and indomethacin

We present the characterization of supramolecular complexes formed by cucurbit[n]urils, (n = 6,7,8) with the anti-tumoral drug emodin and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin at several pHs. Both drugs exhibit poor water solubility and host-guest complexes constitute an option to increase the drugs’ solubility and stability. We use different spectroscopic techniques: UV–vis, 1H NMR and fluorescence. Our study shows that emodin forms complexes at pH = 2 with cucurbit[6]uril with stoichiometry (1:1) (host:guest), as well as complexes with cucurbit[7]uril and cucurbit[8]uril with stoichiometry (2:1) but no complexes are found at basic pHs. In the case of indomethacin, complexes are formed with cucurbit[6]uril and cucurbit[8]uril at pH = 6, with stoichiometries (2:1) and (1:1) respectively. The data presented here can be useful in the development of new drug delivery systems employing these supramolecular assemblies.Graphical abstract

Source: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects - July 11, 2018 Category: Chemistry Source Type: research