Texture Analysis in Action: the Mucoadhesion Rig

The MUCOADHESION RIG* (A/MUC) 
 
Mucoadhesion is the process by which a drug delivery device is designed to stick to a part of the gut or other mucosae, thus delivering drug to a precise site in the body for an extended period.

This gives more effective treatment of some diseases and can also protect drugs from some of the harsh conditions in the body.

The TA.XTplus Texture Analyser has emerged as a useful tool for measuring bioadhesion bond strength when fitted with the Mucoadhesion Rig. The determination of the adhesive properties of pharmaceutical dosage forms is important in their development and several methods have been developed for these measurements.

Assessment of mucoadhesion
of a biopolymer

An alternative method is now available which enables attachment of gels to a probe. The Gel Mucoadhesion Probe, as shown in the inset above, consists of an inverted cone shape at its end which has machined concentric grooves. These grooves encourage the attachment of a controlled volume of hydrogel sample to the probe surface area.

For constant gel volume application the use of a syringe is recommended. A PTFE collar is supplied to support larger volumes of hydrogel loading which is removed when the gel is set.


Some more information on this fixture: 
Tests of solid dosage forms, semi-solids such as ointments and gels and even systems which solidify on contact with the target organ can be performed using alternative measuring probes.

The measurement of adhesive properties has already been reviewed for transdermal adhesive products and the same adhesive test guidelines and curve analysis techniques apply for the measurement of mucoadhesion. Sample preparation and testing method techniques, however, vary depending upon the nature of the sample.

Developed at the University of Strathclyde, and since adopted by a number of groups in Britain and Europe, the Mucoadhesion Rig offers a number of advantages over systems previously used for the assessment of mucoadhesion.

A particular advantage is the ability to test tissue samples in the conditions in which they are normally found; where conditions close to those found in vivo are required, the rig provides the ability to set-up the tissue samples in a vessel of temperature regulated gastric fluid and lower a probe with the attached solid or semi-solid dosage form onto the tissue.

Tests of solid dosage forms, semi-solids such as gels and even systems which solidify on contact with the target organ can be performed.

 

---

We can design and manufacture probes or fixtures for the TA.XTplus texture analyser that are bespoke to your sample and its specific measurement.

Once your measurement is performed, our expertise in its graphical interpretation is unparalleled. Not only can we develop the most suitable and accurate method for the testing of your sample, but we can also prepare analysis procedures that obtain the desired parameters from your curve and drop them into a spreadsheet or report designed around your requirements.

For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.

The TA.XTplus texture analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.

No-one understands texture analysis like we do!

To discuss your specific test requirements click here...