Deciphering the Puzzle: A Thorough Examination of Microsphere Optimization through Factorial Design Methodology, Unveiling Novel Strategies and Promising Directions

Abstract

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of using factorial design as an optimization strategy for the preparation of microspheres, enhancing their drug delivery efficacy and therapeutic potential. Factorial design, employed as a statistical tool to investigate multiple variables simultaneously, systematically varied factors such as polymer type, solvent composition, stirring rate, and drug-to-polymer ratio. Experimental design involved careful selection of factors and levels to explore individual and interactive effects on microsphere properties, with data analysis performed using statistical techniques like analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results showed that factorial design efficiently identified critical factors influencing characteristics such as particle size, morphology, drug encapsulation efficiency, and drug release profile, offering advantages over traditional methods, including reduced experimentation time, improved understanding of variable interactions, and enhanced optimization robustness. Ultimately, factorial design proves to be a systematic and efficient approach for optimizing microsphere preparation in pharmaceutical research, facilitating the development of microspheres tailored to specific therapeutic requirements and thereby enhancing drug delivery efficacy while minimizing side effects.