Biocomposite material sponges for hormone release

• Grant number: 25/17291-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Emerson Rodrigues de Camargo
• Grantee: Bianca de Rezende Pinto
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/00989-7 - Research Center of Molecular Engineering for Advanced Materials (CEMol), AP.CEPID

Abstract

The end of the menstrual cycle and the reduction in the production of sex hormones characterize menopause. Due to the various symptoms associated with this period, such as vaginal atrophy, and the potential side effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), this project aims to develop sponges composed of chitosan nanocomposites and mesoporous SiO¿ nanoparticles. These nanoparticles will be synthesized via a modified Stöber method, using surfactants and adjusting synthesis conditions to obtain different shapes and sizes, for the controlled intravaginal release of the estrogenic hormone estriol. Additionally, several parameters will be studied, including isothermal profiles, kinetic parameters, and release mechanisms of estriol, as well as surface tension and hydrophilicity of nanocomposite films compared to pure chitosan. This study is expected to provide women with greater comfort, therapeutic efficacy, and safety.