Development of an On-Demand Preparation Technique for Monodisperse PLGA Nanoparticles

Abstract

In this study, the author aimed to develop a preparation technique for poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles. By incorporating a unique suction actuator into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) pumpless microfluidic chip, the author successfully controlled high-viscosity polymer solutions, achieving the effective generation of PLGA nanoparticles. It was suggested that polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) dissolved in the aqueous phase as the continuous phase played a key role in the stable formation of oil-in-water droplets. Within the droplet collection reservoir of the microfluidic chip, the crystallization process of PLGA based on the mutual dissolution of the oil and water phases was observed. The vacuum-packed, degassed PDMS microfluidic chip demonstrated long-term preservation without compromising performance, supporting the implication that the timely preparation of PLGA nanoparticles is feasible through this method. This study highlights the success of this novel approach in the controlled production of PLGA nanoparticles, emphasizing its potential for practical applications.