Exploring the entrapment of antiviral agents in hyaluronic acid-cyclodextrin conjugates

In the framework of our studies dealing with the development of new platforms for the delivery of antiviral agents, we exploited the covalent approach based on click chemistry to link β-cyclodextrin (CD) on hyaluronic acid backbone (HA). The physico-chemical properties in terms of size, surface charge, interaction with acyclovir (Acy), selected as a model antiviral drug, have been investigated. The release profile and the biological properties (cytotoxicity and inhibition of viral plaque formation) of HA-CD/Acy complex pointed out a good antiviral activity together with a delayed-release of Acy from HA-CD/Acy.