Alginate-gelatin formulation to modify lovastatin release profile from red yeast rice for hypercholesterolemia therapy

Aim: The preparation of a delivery system able to guarantee a delayed release of lovastatin from red yeast rice (RYR) is mandatory to counteract cholesterol biosynthesis effectively. Materials & methods: Polymeric formulations were prepared mixing alginate and gelatin, in different ratios, with RYR. The effect of different composition on stiffness, viscosity, swelling behavior and mesostructure of matrices was analyzed. Results: Formulations obtained combining polymers in comparable amount (i.e., 60/40 and 50/50) guaranteed a delayed release of lovastatin from RYR, a prolonged inhibitory activity toward 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase and a decreased cholesterol synthesis. Conclusion: The formulation obtained combining 60% gelatin and 40% of alginate showed physicochemical properties suitable to lead a lovastatin release profile compatible with cholesterol biosynthesis.