Novel template containing 'Nanoparticles (gelatin and CaCO3) embedded in Microspheres' ('Nano-in-micro') was developed using atomization. Dexamethasone loaded gelatin nanoparticles, fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-dex) loaded CaCO3 nanoparticles and alginate based 'Nano-in-micro' system were prepared and characterized using optical microscopy, SEM, TEM, DLS, zeta potential, CLSM and FTIR. The results indicate that spherical, non-aggregating, 'nano-in-micro' particles (5-60 μm) can be prepared using atomization technique. Dexamethasone release from gelatin nanoparticles and 'nano-in-micro' systems indicated a decrease in burst release in the order: uncoated (24) > coated (18) > 'nano-in-micro' system (1:4 ratio) (17). The sustained release decreased in order of 'nano-in-micro' (1:4 ratio) (14 days)>coated nanoparticles (9 days) > uncoated nanoparticles (4 days) for 95 drug release. FITC-dex loading and release from CaCO3 nanoparticles were found to be molecular weight dependent. Thus, 'nano-in-micro' systems show possibility for use as drug release vehicles, biosensors and multifunctional systems.
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