The Crucial Role of Noncovalent Interactions in PLGA Nanoparticles: Impact on Carvacrol/<i>p</i>‑Cymene Release, Biological Activity, and Antibiofilm Properties.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the molecular interactions between polymeric carriers and bioactive compounds is critical for designing advanced drug delivery systems. This study focuses on two nanoparticle systems composed of poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) encapsulating either carvacrol or p-cymene as model phytochemicals using a combined experimental and theoretical strategy. The nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated under physiological and bacteria-rich conditions, revealing distinct release behaviors: carvacrol displayed a rapid burst release aligned with potent antimicrobial activity, while p-cymene exhibited a delayed, bacteria-enhanced release. To elucidate the molecular origins of these behaviors, periodic Density Functional Theory calculations were

SUBMITTER: Romero-Montero A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12809508 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature