Effect of naproxen on the model lipid membrane formed on the water-chitosan subphase

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are those of the most common over the counter (OTC) medi-cations widely used by millions of people every day. Unfortunately, despite their popularity those drugs can cause serious side effects in the digestive system (ulcers, bleeding, and pain). These inconveniences are caused by the changes in the structures of the outer phospholipid layers of gastric mucus and mucosa. As a result the H+ ions from the stomach acid can pass easily through these natural protective barriers and damage the epithelial cells which causes ulcers and bleeding. Chitosan as a polysaccharide known for its unique biocompatibility, drug delivery possibilities and wound healing effect has been chosen to examine if it can induce the reduction of undesirable effects of naproxen. This paper focuses on the interactions of the naproxen with a model biological membrane with and without the presence of chitosan. Applying the Langmuir technique coupled with the surface potential measurements and the Brewster angle microscope imaging allowed to characterize successfully examined systems in terms of the monolayer compressibility, thickness, stability, electric properties and morphology. The results proved that the presence of naproxen alters the mechanical and electrical properties of the model membrane depending on its surface pressure. Moreover, the addition of chitosan to the lipid-drug system causes significant changes in the properties of the layer, i.e. a reduction of its compressibility, thick-ness and morphology modification. Nevertheless, chitosan suppresses some changes induced by naproxen such as alteration of the apparent dipole moment and film stability.

Automated summary

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used over the counter medications, but can cause serious digestive side effects. This study investigated the effects of chitosan on reducing the undesirable effects of one NSAID, naproxen. The results showed that naproxen altered the mechanical and electrical properties of a model biological membrane, but the addition of chitosan suppressed some of these changes while also modifying the properties of the layer.