Novel γ-cyclodextrin-based metal-organic frameworks for the effective encapsulation of oregano essential oil and controlled release

gamma-cyclodextrin-based metal-organic frameworks (gamma-CD-MOFs) have considerable potential as a novel porous material with biocompatible properties for use as carrier-based drug delivery. Oregano essential oil (OEO) has been remarkably applied in the food and medical field. Herein, gamma-CD-MOFs were prepared in 88% yield by a modified vapor diffusion method for encapsulating liquid OEO. At optimal encapsulation conditions (120 degrees C for 1 h), encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity reached 27.32% and 8.43%, respectively. Moreover, crystal structure characterization revealed that encapsulation of OEO did not change the crystal state of gamma-CD-MOFs. Thus, based on a thorough characterization of prepared inclusion complexes, it was demonstrated that OEO was successfully encapsulated with increased thermal stability. Moreover, gamma-CD-MOFs exhibited outstanding release control in vitro experiments. Collectively, the results indicated that gamma-CD-MOFs can be used as an effective carrier to deliver OEO.

Automated summary

Gamma-cyclodextrin-based metal-organic frameworks (gamma-CD-MOFs) have been successfully prepared with a modified vapor diffusion method, showing great potential as a biocompatible porous material for carrier-based drug delivery. Encapsulation of oregano essential oil (OEO) in gamma-CD-MOFs did not alter their crystal structure and increased their thermal stability. In vitro experiments demonstrated that gamma-CD-MOFs exhibited excellent release control. Therefore, gamma-CD-MOFs can serve as an effective carrier for delivering OEO.