A Comprehensive Physicochemical Analysis Focusing on the Characterization and Stability of Valsartan Silver Nano-Conjugates

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Authors: Abdul Qadir, Khwaja Suleman Hasan, Khwaja Suleman Hasan, Khair Bux, Khwaja Ali Hasan, Khwaja Ali Hasan, Aamir Jalil, Asad Khan Tanoli, Khwaja Suleman Hasan, Khwaja Suleman Hasan, Shahida Naz, Muhammad Kashif
+5 more Nuzhat Fatima Zaidi, Ayesha Hussain Khan, Zeeshan Vohra, Herwig Ralf, Shama Qaiser
Cited by: 1
References: 75

Abstract

Valsartan (Val)—a lipophilic non-peptide angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist—is highly effective against hypertension and displaying limited solubility in water (3.08 μg/mL), thereby resulting in low oral bioavailability (23%). The limited water solubility of antihypertensive drugs can pose a challenge, particularly for rapid and precise administration. Herein, we synthesize and characterize valsartan-containing silver nanoparticles (Val-AgNPs) using Mangifera indica leaf extracts. The physicochemical, structural, thermal, and pharmacological properties of these nano-conjugates were established through various analytical and structural tools. The spectral shifts in both UV-visible and FTIR analyses indicate a successful interaction between the valsartan molecule and the silver nanoparticles. The resulting nano-conjugates are spherical and within the size range of 30–60 nm as revealed in scanning electron-EDS and atomic force micrographs. The log-normal distribution of valsartan-loaded nanoparticles, with a size range of 30 to 60 nm and a mode of 54 nm, indicates a narrow, monodisperse, and highly uniform particle size distribution. This is a favorable characteristic for drug delivery systems, as it leads to enhanced bioavailability and a consistent performance. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) analysis of the Val-AgNPs indicates a polydisperse sample with a tendency toward aggregation, resulting in larger effective sizes in the suspension compared to individual nanoparticles. The accompanying decrease in zeta potential (to −19.5 mV) and conductivity further supports the idea that the surface chemistry and stability of the nanoparticles changed after conjugation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) demonstrated the melting onset of the valsartan component at 113.99 °C. The size-dependent densification of the silver nanoparticles at 286.24 °C correspond to a size range of 40–60 nm, showing a significant melting point depression compared to bulk silver due to nanoscale effects. The shift in Rf for pure valsartan to Val-AgNPs suggests that the interaction with the AgNPs alters the compound’s overall polarity and/or its interaction with the stationary phase, complimented in HPTLC and HPLC analysis. The stability and offloading behavior of Val-AgNPs was observed at pH 6–10 and in 40% and 80% MeOH. In addition, Val-AgNPs did not reveal hemolysis or significant alterations in blood cell indices, confirming the safety of the nano-conjugates for biological application. In conclusion, these findings provide a comprehensive characterization of Val-AgNPs, highlighting their potential for improved drug delivery applications.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Advancements in Transdermal Drug Delivery Nanoparticles: synthesis and applications Advanced Drug Delivery Systems

Publication details

Journal / source
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
27
Issue
2
Pages
582–582
Publication date
6 January 2026
Language
EN