1.Characterization and Drug Release Kinetics of a Ceftriaxone-delivery system based on Natural Zeolite
Altantogos M ; ; Ochirkhuyag B ; Sarangerel D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;93(3):85-90
Background:
Growing bacterial resistance remains a critical global health threat, underscoring the need for precision antibiotic delivery. Our research addresses this by developing CFT@MNZ-HDTMA for ceftriaxone (CFT) antibiotic. By utilizing a natural zeolite framework, this system optimizes the delivery and release kinetics of CFT, aiming to maximize clinical outcomes while minimizing adverse effects.
Aim:
The primary aim is to characterize the physicochemical properties of the CFT@MNZ-HDTMA system and elucidate its CFT release mechanisms through kinetic analysis. The study utilizes XRD and FTIR spectroscopy to determine the composite’s structural and chemical integrity. Furthermore, it evaluates the rate and consistency of drug release to establish a predictable kinetic model and explain the interaction between the antibiotic and the modified zeolite matrix.
Materials and Methods:
CFT delivery system was developed through the systematic modification of MNZ, with its structural and chemical properties characterized using XRD and FT-IR spectroscopy. The in vitro release kinetics of CFT from the carrier matrix were evaluated at 37°C over a 24-hour period, with drug concentrations quantified via UV-Vis spectrophotometry.
Result:
CFT was successfully adsorbed onto the surface of the MNZ-HDTMA. The subsequent release profiles demonstrated that CFT discharge remained constant over time and exhibited concentration-independent behavior, characteristic of zero-order kinetics. This mechanism ensured a controlled and sustained release of the therapeutic agent, facilitating a prolonged delivery window suitable for enhancing clinical efficacy.
Conclusion
Natural zeolite from the Tushleg deposit was processed through systematic modification to develop the CFT@MNZ-HDTMA drug delivery system. XRD and FT-IR analyses confirmed that the zeolite’s crystalline structure remained stable, while successfully demonstrating that the CFT was adsorbed onto the surface of the adsorbent through ionic interactions. Kinetic studies revealed that CFT is released from the system following a zero-order model (R2=0.9804), indicating a constant release rate. This proves the system’s practical significance in sustaining therapeutic effects and minimizing potential side effects.
2.Structure and properties of natural zeolites for drug delivery applications
Saruul I ; Altantogos M ; ; Sarangerel D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;92(2):186-191
Background:
Natural zeolites-especially clinoptilolite-are promising platforms for drug delivery due to their microporous framework, high cation-exchange capacity, large surface area, adsorption potential, and favorable biocompatibility. These intrinsic properties enable protection of payloads from chemical and enzymatic degradation, modulation of release profiles, and reduced systemic toxicity. As pharmaceutical technology advances, zeolite-based carriers offer solutions to challenges such as poor bioavailability, off-target effects, and environmental concerns from drug residues. Clinoptilolite, the most abundant natural zeolite, has one-dimensional and two-dimensional channel systems with effective pore apertures typically in the 3–10 Å range. These channels act as molecular sieves that (1) physically confine small drug molecules, (2) limit access of degradative agents, and (3) contribute to sustained release. The aluminosilicate framework bears negative charge balanced by exchangeable cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+), providing a strong ion-exchange mechanism that can be exploited to load cationic drugs or to replace native cations with drug-containing species for controlled desorption. Surface modification and composite formation expand application versatility. Grafting of organic groups, adsorption of polymers, or incorporation into polymeric matrices increases surface area, tunes hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, and creates steric barriers to diffusion. Such modifications enable higher drug loading, dual delivery of hydrophilic and hydrophobic actives, pH-responsive release, and prolonged release kinetics. Typical strategies include: (a) cation-exchange loading for ionic or polar molecules; (b) impregnation/adsorption for nonionic drugs; (c) surface silanization or polymer coating to control interfacial interactions; and (d) embedding zeolites in biodegradable polymers to obtain composite implants or films. Preclinical studies and formulation reports demonstrate stable and sustained release from zeolite-based systems for diverse therapeutics: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, certain chemotherapeutics, antibiotics, antidiabetic agents, gastroprotective drugs, and neuroprotective compounds. Key performance metrics include extended-release half-life, reduced burst release, protection from acidic gastric conditions, and preserved bioactivity after release. However, performance depends strongly on zeolite type, particle size, porosity, degree of ion exchange, surface treatment, and the drug’s physicochemical properties. Safety and process considerations: Natural zeolites generally show acceptable biocompatibility but must be characterized for impurities (e.g., heavy metals, asbestos-like minerals) and endotoxin content. Particle size and morphology affect cellular interactions and clearance; nanoscale zeolites can enhance loading and release control but require rigorous toxicity evaluation. Processing methods (acid/base activation, thermal treatment, milling) alter surface chemistry and must be optimized to balance loading capacity and safety. Compatibility of antiscalants, buffers, or chelating agents with downstream drug recovery or biological environments must be tested.
Materials and Methods:
This review analyzed 32 papers (2000–2026) from Scopus and Web of Science on the structure, properties, and drug delivery applications of natural zeolites.
Conclusion
Natural zeolites, particularly clinoptilolite and mordenite, present a cost-effective and adaptable platform for controlled drug delivery owing to their molecular-sieve behavior, ion-exchange capacity, and amenability to surface engineering. Future research priorities include systematic toxicological profiling, scalable, reproducible modification protocols, and development of targeted or stimuli-responsive zeolite-polymer composites for site-specific and on-demand release. Optimizing zeolite composition, surface functionality, and composite architecture will be critical to translate promising laboratory results into clinically viable drug-delivery products.
3.Current Engineering Advances in Drug Delivery Systems Utilizing Silver Nanoparticles
Oldokh O ; Altantogos M ; ; Molomjamts B ; Altansukh Ts ;
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;92(2):196-200
Background:
Over the past decade, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained considerable attention in biomedical research due to their unique physicochemical properties and intrinsic biological activity. Their nanoscale dimensions, high surface-to-volume ratio, and tunable surface chemistry make them promising candidates for advanced drug delivery applications. AgNP-based systems provide a versatile platform for controlled and site-specific drug release, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. This review article summarizes the properties of zeolites enhanced with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Drug delivery systems incorporating AgNPs operate through both passive and active targeting mechanisms to transport therapeutic agents, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and anticancer compounds, to specific tissues or pathological sites. The performance of these systems is largely governed by the physicochemical characteristics of AgNPs, such as particle size, morphology, surface charge, stability, and surface functionalization. Surface modification enables improved biocompatibility, enhanced drug loading capacity, and controlled release kinetics. Furthermore, the inherent antibacterial activity of AgNPs contributes synergistically to therapeutic outcomes, particularly in the treatment of infected wounds and biofilm-associated infections.
Materials and Methods:
This review article was prepared by selecting and analyzing relevant publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science published between 2005 and 2025, focusing on characteristics of AgNPs, drug delivery systems based on zeolites modified with AgNPs and their applications.
Conclusion
Silver nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems represent an advanced and multifunctional therapeutic platform. Their capacity for targeted, sustained, and controlled drug release, combined with intrinsic antimicrobial activity, offers significant advantages over conventional delivery systems. These properties position AgNPs as promising materials for the development of next-generation biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.
4.Evaluation of antioxidant activity and safety of onion (Allium cepa L.) peels
Anu G ; Tamir B ; Uranbileg B ; Altantogos M ; Oldokh O ; Enkhzul O
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):141-145
Background:
Onion peel is a raw material rich in biologically active compounds; however, within the framework of food waste management in Mongolia, detailed studies and safety evaluations of this material remain insufficient. Therefore, it is necessary to scientifically determine the properties of onion peel waste generated from the food production sector and explore its potential for reuse.
Aim:
To evaluate the safety parameters of red and white onion (Allium cepa L.) peels generated during food processing and to determine their bioactive compound content and antioxidant activity.
Materials and Methods:
Red and white onion peels were used in this study. Safety parameters were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry (for heavy metals) and GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS (for pesticide residues). The raw materials were extracted with 70% ethanol, and dry extracts were obtained using a vacuum evaporator and freeze dryer. Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were measured by spectrophotometric methods, while antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay.
Results:
The analysis showed that the levels of lead, cadmium, and 205 pesticide residues in onion peels did not exceed the permissible limits, indicating that the material is safe. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of quercetin and luteolin derivatives in the dry extracts. The TPC (27.40±1.64%) and TFC (17.95±1.47%) of red onion peel extract were significantly higher than those of white onion peel extract (20.34±0.34% and 12.69±1.44%, respectively). The IC₅₀ values were 17.58 μg·mL⁻¹ for red onion and 19.41 μg·mL⁻¹ for white onion, indicating strong antioxidant activity for natural composite extracts.
Conclusion
Onion peel waste meets safety requirements and exhibits strong antioxidant activity. These findings demonstrate its potential as a valuable raw material for the development of antioxidant preparations and functional food additives aimed at preventing oxidative stress.
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