Formulation and characterization of quercetin-loaded gelatin microspheres for drug delivery and their evaluation

The current study focused on the formulation and physical characterization of quercetin-loaded gelatin microspheres and their evaluation for potential use in drug delivery. For the experiment, gelatin microspheres (GM₀—with gelatin alone, and GM₁, GM₂, and GM₃—with different concentrations quercetin) were prepared. The physical characterization of microspheres was done using appropriate techniques. The suitability of a chosen formulation was adjudged by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), loose surface crystal study and equilibrium swelling study along with the in vitro drug delivery potential. The formulated microsphere sample, GM₂ with an optimum quantity of the drug quercetin (380 mg per 1500 mg gelatin), showed comparable but slightly better physical and rheological properties than the other two samples facilitating better flow and packaging properties. FTIR analysis revealed the absence of interference between the drug and the gelatin coating matrix and exhibited minimum drug coating. Also, GM₂ showed a more controlled drug release profile in the dissolution media (acidic and basic).