Synthesis and optimization of gelatin nanoparticles using the miniemulsion process.

A convenient synthetic route based on the concept of nanoreactors using the versatility of the miniemulsion technique to synthesize glutardialdehyde cross-linked gelatin nanoparticles with tailored properties is reported. It is demonstrated that, independent of the molecular weight distribution of the gelatin used, stable nanoparticles can be produced with a small amount of surfactant. The amount of gelatin and the cross-linking degree in the particle can be well controlled. Different types of gelatin have been used without purification or fractionation. The stability of the dispersion, particle size, and the efficiency of cross-linking have been studied. Such nanoparticles with varying gelatin concentration and cross-linking density have high potential to be used for drug delivery applications, as nanoenvironment or template for synthesizing inorganic materials.