Advanced PMSSO Hydrogel Cross-Linked Cyclodextrin Composite Carrier for Enhanced Oral Delivery of Iron to Treat Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia continues to pose a significant global health burden, necessitating the development of improved therapeutic delivery systems. This study investigates novel composite materials composed of organosilicon hydrogels and cross-linked sulfobutyl ether beta-cyclodextrin (SBECD) nanoparticles for the oral delivery of iron compounds. Two types of cross-linked SBECD nanoparticles were synthesized using 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate. These nanoparticles were characterized by DLS, NTA, and FTIR and possess size around 200–300 nm and negative zeta-potential around −35 mV with molecular weight 150–200 kDa. Various hydrogel matrices, including plain PMSSO hydrogels and modified versions with amino groups or silicate cross-links, are also described. The hydrogels were evaluated for their iron sorption capacity (up to 44% loading efficiency) and release kinetics for 3 h. The results demonstrate that cross-linked SBECD nanoparticles significantly enhance iron sorption and provide sustained release under simulated physiological conditions. Mathematical modeling indicated that the Higuchi model best describes the iron release kinetics. The findings suggest that the proposed composite materials hold considerable promise for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, offering an innovative approach to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize adverse effects.