Nanostructured lipid carriers improve skin permeation and chemical stability of idebenone

Curcumin-infused nanostructured lipid carriers: a promising strategy for enhancing skin regeneration and combating microbial infection

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is a biomolecule that can be extracted from the Curcuma longa that has been shown to have the potential to aid skin wound healing. It has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce swelling and promote tissue repair. However, curcumin has low solubility in water, which can limit its absorption and bioavailability. Encapsulating it in lipid nanoparticles may help to increase its absorption, leading to improved bioavailability.

METHODS

Curcumin-loaded nanostructure lipid nanocarriers (CURC-NLCs) were prepared and characterized. Also, the phenolic, flavonoid contents, antioxidant and antimicrobial efficacy against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria were investigated. Furthermore, in vivo rabbit animal model was used to test its regenerative capacity and wound-healing efficiency.

RESULTS

The CURC-NLCs significantly increased the content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds compared to curcumin, resulting in a dramatic increase in antioxidant activity. CURC-NLCs also showed a potent inhibitory effect on Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and fungi, two times higher than curcumin. CURC-NLCs showed a higher potential to fasten the wound healing of full-thickness skin injuries as it resulted in 1.15- and 1.9-fold higher wound closure at the first week of injury compared to curcumin and control, respectively (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that CURC-NLCs have an excellent potential to promote skin regeneration, which could be attributed to its antioxidant and broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect.

Lycorine transfersomes modified with cell-penetrating peptides for topical treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Topical anticancer drugs offer a potential therapeutic modality with high compliance for treating cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). However, the existing topical treatments for cSCC are associated with limited penetrating ability to achieve the desired outcome. Therefore, there remains an urgent requirement to develop drugs with efficient anticancer activity suitable for treating cSCC and to overcome the skin physiological barrier to improve the efficiency of drug delivery to the tumor.

RESULTS

We introduced lycorine (LR) into the topical treatment for cSCC and developed a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-modified cationic transfersome gel loaded with lycorine-oleic acid ionic complex (LR-OA) (LR@DTFs-CPP Gel) and investigated its topical therapeutic effects on cSCC. The anti-cSCC effects of LR and skin penetration of LR-OA transfersomes were confirmed. Simultaneously, cationic lipids and modification of R5H3 peptide of the transfersomes further enhanced the permeability of the skin and tumor as well as the effective delivery of LR to tumor cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical treatment of cSCC-xenografted nude mice with LR@DTFs-CPP Gel showed effective anticancer properties with high safety. This novel formulation provides novel insights into the treatment and pathogenesis of cSCC.

Potential of Lipid-Based Nanocarriers against Two Major Barriers to Drug Delivery-Skin and Blood-Brain Barrier

Over the past few years, pharmaceutical and biomedical areas have made the most astounding accomplishments in the field of medicine, diagnostics and drug delivery. Nanotechnology-based tools have played a major role in this. The implementation of this multifaceted nanotechnology concept encourages the advancement of innovative strategies and materials for improving patient compliance. The plausible usage of nanotechnology in drug delivery prompts an extension of lipid-based nanocarriers with a special reference to barriers such as the skin and blood-brain barrier (BBB) that have been discussed in the given manuscript. The limited permeability of these two intriguing biological barriers restricts the penetration of active moieties through the skin and brain, resulting in futile outcomes in several related ailments. Lipid-based nanocarriers provide a possible solution to this problem by facilitating the penetration of drugs across these obstacles, which leads to improvements in their effectiveness. A special emphasis in this review is placed on the composition, mechanism of penetration and recent applications of these carriers. It also includes recent research and the latest findings in the form of patents and clinical trials in this field. The presented data demonstrate the capability of these carriers as potential drug delivery systems across the skin (referred to as topical, dermal and transdermal delivery) as well as to the brain, which can be exploited further for the development of safe and efficacious products.

Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC)-Based Gel Formulations as Etodolac Delivery: From Gel Preparation to Permeation Study

Topical administration of drug is an attractive alternative to the oral administration as it provides a reduction in adverse reactions and an enhancement of therapeutic effects. The use of lipid carriers in hydrogel structures makes it possible to introduce lipophilic substances in a dissolved form. In this study, an NSAID from the BCS class II, etodolac (ETD), was used. The nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) obtained with ETD were incorporated into semi-solid forms (gels). Hydrogels with the suspended drug and oleogel were also prepared for comparison purposes. The obtained gels were tested in terms of pH, viscosity, rheological, mechanical, and bioadhesive properties. The release and permeation through membranes were also studied. All tested formulations were characterized by a pH below 7, which ensured the physiological state of the skin. The viscosities of all gels decreased with increasing shear rate, indicating non-Newtonian behavior. The fastest ETD release was observed for NLC with a Carbopol base (formulation F1); a similar result was noticed in the permeation test. The developed gel formulations containing ETD-NLC dispersion and Carbopol or Poloxamer as gelling agents were stable and possessed beneficial pharmaceutical properties.

Stability Studies and the In Vitro Leishmanicidal Activity of Hyaluronic Acid-Based Nanoemulsion Containing Pterodon pubescens Benth. Oil

The physicochemical and microbiological stability of a hyaluronic acid-based nanostructured topical delivery system containing P. pubescens fruit oil was evaluated, and the in vitro antileishmanial activity of the nanoemulsion against Leishmania amazonensis and the cytotoxicity on macrophages was investigated. The formulation stored at 5 ± 2 °C, compared with the formulation stored at 30 and 40 ± 2 °C, showed a higher chemical and physical stability during the period analyzed and in the accelerated physical stability study. The formulation stored at 40 °C presented a significant change in droplet diameter, polydispersity index, zeta potential, pH, active compound, and consistency index and was considered unstable. The microbiological stability of the formulations was confirmed. The leishmanicidal activity of the selected system against intracellular amastigotes was significantly superior to that observed for the free oil. However, further research is needed to explore the use of the hyaluronic acid-based nanostructured system containing P. pubescens fruit oil for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Assessing the Dermal Penetration Efficacy of Chemical Compounds with the Ex-Vivo Porcine Ear Model

(1) Background: The ex vivo porcine ear model is often used for the determination of the dermal penetration efficacy of chemical compounds. This study investigated the influence of the post-slaughter storage time of porcine ears on the dermal penetration efficacy of chemical compounds. (2) Methods: Six different formulations (curcumin and different fluorescent dyes in different vehicles and/or nanocarriers) were tested on ears that were (i) freshly obtained, (ii) stored for 24 or 48 h at 4 °C after slaughter before use and (iii) freshly frozen and defrosted 12 h before use. (3) Results: Results showed that porcine ears undergo post-mortem changes. The changes can be linked to rigor mortis and all other well-described phenomena that occur with carcasses after slaughter. The post-mortem changes modify the skin properties of the ears and affect the penetration efficacy. The onset of rigor mortis causes a decrease in the water-holding capacity of the ears, which leads to reduced penetration of chemical compounds. The water-holding capacity increases once the rigor is released and results in an increased penetration efficacy for chemical compounds. Despite different absolute penetration values, no differences in the ranking of penetration efficacies between the different formulations were observed between the differently aged ears. (4) Conclusions: All different types of ears can be regarded to be suitable for dermal penetration testing of chemical compounds. The transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and/or skin hydration of the ears were not correlated with the ex vivo penetration efficacy because both an impaired skin barrier and rigor mortis cause elevated skin hydration and TEWL values but an opposite penetration efficacy. Other additional values (for example, pH and/or autofluorescence of the skin) should, therefore, be used to select suitable and non-suitable skin areas for ex vivo penetration testing. Finally, data from this study confirmed that smartFilms and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) represent superior formulation strategies for efficient dermal and transdermal delivery of curcumin.

Facile Solvent-Free Preparation of Antioxidant Idebenone-Loaded Nanoparticles for Efficient Wound Healing

The excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes harmful effects, including biomolecular damage and inflammation. ROS due to ultraviolet rays, blue light, and fine dust harm the skin, causing urban-related aging. Therefore, a strong antioxidant that relieves oxidative stress in the skin and removes ROS is required. Idebenone (IB) is a powerful antioxidant but is poorly soluble and thus has low solubility in water, resulting in low bioavailability. In this study, IB-loaded nanoparticles (IB@NPs) were synthesized by loading IB without an organic solvent into nanoparticles that can provide high loading efficiency and stability for solubilization. Indeed, the synthesized IB@NPs exhibited long-term stability through dynamic light scattering, methylene blue staining, and redispersion assays, and IB@NPs prepared with a 5 wt% IB loading content were found to be optimal. The antioxidant activity of IB@NPs evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was significantly higher than that of unloaded IB. In addition, IB@NPs showed excellent biocompatibility, inhibited oxidative damage to mouse NIH-3T3 fibroblasts, and reduced intracellular ROS generation according to an in vitro DPPH antioxidant assay. Most notably, IB@NPs significantly promoted wound healing in vitro, as demonstrated by scratch assays. Therefore, as carriers with excellent stability, IB@NPs have potential cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

Lipid Nanomaterials for Targeted Delivery of Dermocosmetic Ingredients: Advances in Photoprotection and Skin Anti-Aging

Despite the health benefits of the sun, overexposure to solar radiation without proper precautions can cause irreversible damage to exposed skin. In the search for balance between the risks and benefits of exposure to solar radiation in human health, a technological alternative was found, the incorporation of photoprotective products in lipid nanoparticulate systems for topical application. These nanometric systems have demonstrated several advantages when used as adjuvants in photoprotection compared to chemical and/or physical sunscreens alone. The increase in the sun protection factor (SPF), photostability and UV action spectrum are parameters that have benefited from the application of these systems in order to increase the effectiveness and safety of photoprotective formulations containing organic and/or inorganic sunscreens.

Ultradeformable vesicles: concepts and applications relating to the delivery of skin cosmetics

Skin aging is a phenomenon resulting in reduced self-confidence, thus becoming a major factor in social determinants of health. The use of active cosmetic ingredients can help prevent skin aging. Transfersomes are well known to be capable of deeply penetrating the dermis. This scoping review provides an insight into transfersomes and their prospective use in anti-aging cosmetics. Numerous reports exist highlighting the successful skin delivery of therapeutic agents such as high-molecular-weight, poorly water soluble and poorly permeable active ingredients by means of transfersomes. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies have indicated that transfersomes increase the deposition, penetration and efficacy of active ingredients. However, the use of transfersomes in the delivery of active cosmetic ingredients is limited. Considering their similar physicochemical properties, transfersomes should possess considerable potential as a delivery system for anti-aging cosmetics.

Topical gel based nanoparticles for the controlled release of oleanolic acid: design and in vivo characterization of a cubic liquid crystalline anti-inflammatory drug

Background

Oleanolic acid (OA) has multiple pharmaceutical applications including anti-inflammatory activity, but low permeability of the molecule limits its widespread use.

Methods

A cubic liquid crystalline nanoparticle (LCNP)-based gel was prepared as a potential topical delivery system for OA. The LCNP-based gel was optimized using rheological, drug release kinetic, and ex vivo permeation studies.

Results

The studies showed that the OA was trapped in the interior of the LCNP with a crystal form of Pn3m space. The optimized LCNP formulation performed well using in vitro release studies for up to 12 h (85.49 ± 0.21%). Ex vivo permeation studies showed that the LCNP-based gel formulation was superior to a standard gel formulation. The r² value from the Peppas equation indicated good linearity, but showed irregular (non-Fickian) diffusion, suggesting that drug release was controlled by multiple processes.

Conclusions

In this study, OA-loaded LCNPs were prepared by the precursor method, resulting in a well-characterized OA-LCNP gel preparation. The gel was shown to be effective in a rodent carrageenan-induced hind paw inflammation model with sustained efficacy after a single application.

Influence of lipid matrix composition on biopharmaceutical properties of lipid nanoparticles

Lipid nanoparticles (LN) were invented in the early 1990ties and can be exploited for oral and topical drug delivery to increase the bioavailability of lipophilic active compounds. The lipid matrix of the LN can be composed of solid lipids or of a mixture of liquid and solid lipids. The influence of the lipid matrix composition of LN on the dermal penetration efficacy is not known and was therefore investigated in this study. For this the whole spectrum of LN, that means NE (100% liquid lipid), SLN (100% solid lipid) and NLC that contained low, medium and high amounts of oil were produced and characterized in regard to size, zeta potential, crystallinity and in-vitro release. In addition, the dermal penetration efficacy was determined ex-vivo and the bio-physical skin parameters, i.e., spreadability on skin, skin hydration, skin friction and transepidermal water loss were also assessed. Results demonstrate the tremendous influence of the lipid matrix composition on the biopharmaceutical properties of the LN but showed only minor differences in the physico-chemical properties of the particles. The physico-chemical properties of the LN and the in-vitro release data were not clearly linked to the dermal penetration efficacy, because also other parameters, e.g., skin hydration, spreadability of the formulation on skin and/or film formation of the LN on skin were found to be important parameters that influence the dermal penetration efficacy. Therefore, to allow for the development of effective LN formulations with tailor-made biopharmaceutical properties, not only the physico-chemical properties and in-vitro drug release profiles but also the most relevant biopharmaceutical properties of the LN should be assessed during the formulation development of LN.

Design, Preparation, and Characterization of Effective Dermal and Transdermal Lipid Nanoparticles: A Review

Limited permeability through the stratum corneum (SC) is a major obstacle for numerous skin care products. One promising approach is to use lipid nanoparticles as they not only facilitate penetration across skin but also avoid the drawbacks of conventional skin formulations. This review focuses on solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanostructured lipid nanocarriers (NLCs), and nanoemulsions (NEs) developed for topical and transdermal delivery of active compounds. A special emphasis in this review is placed on composition, preparation, modifications, structure and characterization, mechanism of penetration, and recent application of these nanoparticles. The presented data demonstrate the potential of these nanoparticles for dermal and transdermal delivery.

Natural Lipids as Structural Components of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Topical Delivery

BACKGROUND

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) are useful drug delivery systems for dermal application. Thanks to their biocompatible and biodegradable profile, these carriers offer many advantages such as enhanced bioavailability, low toxicity, viable drug targeting and controlled release. SLN and NLC are composed of well-tolerated lipids, including natural fats and oils that are successfully used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic dermal formulation.

OBJECTIVE

This article presents an overview of the benefits of selecting natural fats and oils as structural components of SLN and NLC for topical application.

METHODS

This review is based on data published over the past 20 years about the development of stable and nontoxic lipid nanoparticles with natural lipids. We shed light on the role of natural fats in skin restoration, as well as on the contributed penetration and occlusive properties of SLN and NLC.

RESULTS

The deliberate selection of excipients (type and lipid ratio) influences the quality of the final dermal formulation. Natural lipids show good compatibility with different active molecules and are able to create stable lipid matrices that facilitate the biopharmaceutical properties of lipid nanoparticles. Patents involving natural fats and oils in SLN and NLC composition are listed, yet it is important to note that the approved marketed formulations are mainly cosmetic, not pharmaceutical, products.

CONCLUSION

Natural lipids can enhance topical drug delivery by adding their ability of improving skin penetration and hydration to the permeation and occlusion properties of SLN and NLC.

Development and Evaluation of Astaxanthin as Nanostructure Lipid Carriers in Topical Delivery

The study is designed to formulate, optimize, and evaluate astaxanthin (ASTA)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) with an aim to improve its stability, water solubility, skin permeability and retention and reduce drug-related side effects. ASTA was extracted from Haematococcus pluvialis. ASTA-NLC was formulated by the technique of melt emulsification-ultrasonic and optimized taking solid:liquid lipid ratio, total lipid:drug ratio, drug concentration, emulsifier types, and amounts as independent variables with particle sizes (PS) and entrapment efficiency (EE) as dependent variables. The optimized formulation (N21) exhibited spherical surfaced stable nanoparticles of 67.4 ± 2.1 nm size and 94.3 ± 0.5% EE. Formulation N21 was then evaluated for its physiological properties, physicochemical properties, drug content, in vitro release and skin penetration, and retention analysis. The ASTA-NLC was found to be nonirritating, homogenous, and with excellent stability and water solubility. In vitro release studies showed the cumulative release rate of NLC was 83.0 ± 3.4% at 48 h. The skin penetration and retention studies indicated that cumulative permeability was 174.10 ± 4.38 μg/cm² and the retention was 8.00 ± 1.62 μg/cm² within 24 h. It can be concluded that NLC serves as a promising carrier for site specific targeting with better stability and skin penetration.

Characterization, Stability Assessment, Antioxidant Evaluation and Cell Proliferation Activity of Virgin Coconut Oil-based Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Loaded with Ficus deltoidea Extract

In this study, the Ficus deltoidea extract loaded nanostructured lipid carrier was prepared by using the melt emulsification homogenization method. Virgin coconut oil is used as liquid lipid, while glyceryl monostearate is the solid lipid. Particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug loading and morphology of the obtained nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) were measured. The size of the nanostructured lipid carrier incorporated with Ficus deltoidea (FDNLC) is 158.0 ± 1.3 nm, with a polydispersity index of 0.15 ± 0.02. The zeta potential obtained is −42.3 ± 1.5 mV. The encapsulation efficiency and active ingredient loading capacity for FDNLC is 87.4% ± 1.3% and 8.5% ± 1.2%, respectively. The shape of FDNLC is almost spherical and the stability assessment showed that the obtained formulation is at least stable for 40 days. When compared with the positive controls, which are Trolox and ascorbic acid, FDNLC shows the highest antioxidant value. Cell proliferation activity study indicates that FDNLC is not toxic to cells, and FDNLC could potentially treat damage by ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation.

Nanostructured Lipid Carriers as Potential Drug Delivery Systems for Skin Disorders

Background:

Skin diseases affect all the age groups of people and have an impact on patients’ physical, mental, and emotional status. Conventional topical preparation is limited with its efficacy due to low permeation, frequent application, and poor adherence to the therapy for prolong time.

Objective:

The objective of this review article is to address the emerging trends of nanotechnology derived lipidic carrier systems for an effective treatment for skin disorders.

Methodology:

Various research and review articles from reputed international journals were referred and compiled.

Results and Discussion:

opical drug delivery systems were found to be more effective than oral and parenteral drug delivery systems for treating skin diseases due to targeted localized applications with reduced side effects. Lipid-based nanoparticles have been found to have the potential in treating skin diseases due to the biocompatibility and the versatility of the lipids. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have gained much attention in treating skin diseases due to improved stability of the drugs, enhanced skin permeation, retention, and better therapeutic efficacy. The review summarizes the NLCs characteristics and their application for topical delivery of various therapeutics in skin disorders. NLCs have shown great potential in effective drug delivery for the treatment of psoriasis, dermatitis, bacterial infections, and skin cancer. Its cosmetic application has opened a new area for skincare. Furthermore, safety and clinical status revealed its future commercial acceptability.

Conclusion:

NLCs have been found as effective lipid nanocarriers for the delivery of topical therapeutics.

Bemotrizinol-Loaded Carnauba Wax-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Sunscreen: Optimization, Characterization, and In vitro Evaluation

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) are aqueous dispersions of nanoparticles formed by solid and liquid lipids. In this study, NLC containing an organic UV filter, bemotrizinol, were developed for sunscreen formulation using carnauba wax and caprylic/capric triglycerides through ultrasonication technique. A Box-Behnken design was used to evaluate the influence of three variables on the particle size with the purpose of choosing the best system for further characterization. The particle size decreased as the surfactant concentration increased, reaching an average size of 122.4 ± 0.3 nm at 30 days of storage. Scanning electron microscopy showed intact and spherical particles. Thermal analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy suggest that bemotrizinol was incorporated into the NLC. The X-ray diffraction showed a reduction in the crystallinity of the NLC. In vitro analysis indicated an improvement in the photoprotective activity of bemotrizinol when incorporated into NLC. These findings suggest a promising, stable, and biocompatible system.

Development and Characterization of a Clobetasol Propionate Nanostructured Lipid Carrier-Based Gel for the Treatment of Plaque Psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease of the skin with lapsing episodes of hyperkeratosis, irritation, and inflammation. Numerous traditional and novel drug delivery systems have been used for better penetration through psoriatic barrier cells and also for retention in the skin. As there is no effective remedy for better penetration, and retention is there because of the absence of an ideal carrier for effective and safe delivery of antipsoriatic drugs.

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this project is to develop a Squalene integrated NLC based carbopol 940 gel to create a local drug depot in the skin for improved efficacy against psoriasis.

METHODS

Homogenization method is used for the formulation of Nanostructured Lipid Carrier, which was characterized on the basis of size, entrapment efficiency, polydispersity index (PDI), viscosity, spreadability, DSC, zeta potential, % in vitro release, in vitro skin permeation and retention studies, physical storage stability studies. In vivo studies can use other alternative models for induction of psoriasis by severe redness, swelling macroscopically, and microvascular dilation edema lasting for 10 days. Furthermore, histopathology study was done to asses changes in the skin.

CONCLUSION

The optimized formulation of nanostructured lipid carrier-based gel has shown significant and sustained release of clobetasol propionate. Furthermore, this formulation has also shown retention in skin because of squalene as it is a sebum derived lipid, which shows an affinity towards the sebaceous gland.

Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: A Groundbreaking Approach for Transdermal Drug Delivery

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are novel pharmaceutical formulations which are composed of physiological and biocompatible lipids, surfactants and co-surfactants. Over time, as a second generation lipid nanocarrier NLC has emerged as an alternative to first generation nanoparticles. This review article highlights the structure, composition, various formulation methodologies, and characterization of NLCs which are prerequisites in formulating a stable drug delivery system. NLCs hold an eminent potential in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics market because of extensive beneficial effects like skin hydration, occlusion, enhanced bioavailability, and skin targeting. This article aims to evoke an interest in the current state of art NLC by discussing their promising assistance in topical drug delivery system. The key attributes of NLC that make them a promising drug delivery system are ease of preparation, biocompatibility, the feasibility of scale up, non-toxicity, improved drug loading, and stability.

Development and evaluation of a film-forming system hybridized with econazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for enhanced antifungal activity against dermatophytes

Treatment of skin infection by dermatophytes is still limited, and the application of conventional topical formulations (ointments, creams, etc.) cause patient discomfort due to repeated administration and low efficacy. This study describes the film-forming system (FFS) hybridized with econazole (ECO)-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for enhanced antifungal activity against dermatophytes. We assumed that the application of NLC could effectively increase the skin permeability of ECO, thereby suppressing the growth of dermatophytes in stratum corneum as well as in epidermis. Meanwhile, ECO-NLC hybrid FFS (ECO-NLC@FFS) could increase the adhesion of ECO-NLC to the skin and prolong the antifungal activity of ECO. First, we optimized ECO-NLC, which shows nanosized particle (199 nm), high encapsulation efficiency (92.5%), and biocompatibility. ECO-NLC@FFS formed a transparent, homogeneous, and hard-to-remove film after topical application. In vitro skin permeation and deposition studies demonstrated that ECO-NLC@FFS showed 1.5-fold higher skin permeation and 3-fold higher ECO deposition in the epidermis layer than a commercial product, which resulted from the nanosized particle and its occlusion effect. And, ex vivo and in vivo antifungal activity studies confirmed that ECO-NLC@FFS improved the skin adhesion of ECO-NLC, thereby allowing ECO to be continuously exposed to the infection sited and reducing the number of applications with a single dose. These results showed that this hybrid system could be a potential for effectively improving the efficacy of antifungal agents and the patient compliance in the treatment of dermatophytes. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Treatment of skin infection by dermatophytes is difficult due to the inconvenience and low efficacy of conventional topical formulations. Here, we demonstrated the potential of a film-forming system (FFS) hybridized with nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). First, we confirmed that the enhanced skin permeability of drug was improved by NLC. In addition, the hybridization of NLC with FFS improved the skin adhesion of NLC, allowing the drug to exhibit a sustained release profile and prolong antifungal activity. Given the maximized antifungal activity, this hybrid system can be used as a potential pharmaceutical technique to improve patient convenience and achieve complete treatment of skin infection.

Effect of Combination Soy Bean Oil and Oleic Acid to Characteristic, Penetration, Physical Stability of Nanostructure Lipid Carrier Resveratrol

Resveratrol is an antioxidant that can be used as anti-aging. Topical use has several problems because solubility in water is low and unstable to light. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the combination of soy bean oil and oleic acid liquid lipids on the characteristics, penetration, and stability of resveratrol nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) were made with high shear homogeneous technique. To determine the characterization of NLC, diffraction scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transforms infrared spectrophotometry were used. Examination of the morphological form was carried out with a transmission electron microscope. The particle size and polydispersity index examination were measured by the Delsa Nano™ particle size analyzer, while the efficiency of trapping resveratrol in the NLC system was measured by the dialysis membrane method. Furthermore, the penetration depth test on the skin of mice was done by fluorescence microscope method using rhodamine B markers. Physical stability test was performed by examination of particle size and index polydispersity for 30 days. The formula with liquid soy bean oil and oleic acid liquid lipids improved the characteristics including the effectiveness of entrapment and colloidal stability. However, the formula with soy bean oil and oleic acid combination liquid lipids did not provide better penetration into the skin than the use of single liquid lipids. While the formula with soy bean oil and oleic acid liquid lipids proved to improve the physical stability for 30 days.

Tacrolimus-loaded lecithin-based nanostructured lipid carrier and nanoemulsion with propylene glycol monocaprylate as a liquid lipid: Formulation characterization and assessment of dermal delivery compared to referent ointment

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) and nanoemulsions (NE) are colloid carriers which could improve dermal delivery of tacrolimus. The aims of this study were to evaluate effects of different formulation and process parameters on physicochemical characteristics and stability of lecithin-based NLC with glyceryl palmitostearate as solid and propylene glycol monocaprylate as liquid lipid and to compare the influence of different inner structure of tacrolimus-loaded NLC and corresponding NE on physicochemical characteristics, stability, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release and overall skin performance. Solid/liquid lipid ratio, total amount of lipids, homogenization pressure and cooling after the preparation were identified as critical variables in NLC development. Moreover, tacrolimus-loaded NLC emerged as more stabile carrier than NE. Differential stripping performed on porcine ear skin revealed significantly higher tacrolimus amount in stratum corneum from nanocarriers compared to referent ointment (Protopic®). Similarly the highest amount of tacrolimus in hair follicles was obtained using NLC (268.54 ± 92.38 ng/cm²), followed by NE (128.17 ± 48.87 ng/cm²) and Protopic® (77.61 ± 43.25 ng/cm²). Contrary, the highest permeation rate through full-thickness porcine ear skin was observed for Protopic®, implying that the selection of experimental setup is critical for reliable skin performance assessment. Overall, developed NLC could be suggested as promising carrier in a form of lotion for tacrolimus dermal delivery.

Silymarin-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier gel for the treatment of skin cancer

Aim: The present study was aimed at determining the antiproliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activity of developed silymarin-nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) gel. Materials & methods: B16 melanoma cell line and albino mice were used as ex vivo and in vivo models, respectively, to evaluate the aforementioned pharmacological activities. Results: The volume of large tumors significantly (p < 0.05) reduced from 5.02 to 3.05 mm3, levels of IL-1α and TNF-α were significantly (p < 0.001) lower and levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) significantly (p < 0.0001) increased in the group treated with silymarin-NLC gel. Furthermore, in skin treated with placebo and conventional gels, a basosquamous carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma were noticed, respectively. Conclusion: Silymarin-NLC gel presented better treatment outcomes compared with silymarin-conventional gel.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Loading Idebenone Ester with Pyroglutamic Acid: In Vitro Antioxidant Activity and In Vivo Topical Efficacy

Idebenone (IDE), a strong antioxidant widely investigated for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and skin disorders, shows low oral and topical bioavailability due to its unfavorable physico-chemical properties. In this work, to improve IDE topical effectiveness, we explored a two-steps approach: (1) we synthesized an IDE ester (IDEPCA) with pyroglutamic acid, a molecule whose hydrating effects are well known; (2) we loaded IDEPCA into solid lipid nanocarriers (SLN). We evaluated in vitro antioxidant and anti-glycation activity and in vivo hydrating effects after topical application in human volunteers from gel vehicles of IDEPCA SLN in comparison to IDE SLN. All SLN showed good technological properties (mean particle size < 25 nm, polydispersity index < 0.300, good stability). The oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay showed that IDEPCA SLN and IDE SLN had similar antioxidant activity while IDEPCA SLN were more effective in the in vitro NO scavenging assay. Both IDEPCA and IDE SLN showed the same effectiveness in inhibiting the formation of advanced glycation end products. In vivo experiments pointed out a better hydrating effect of IDEPCA SLN in comparison to IDE SLN. These results suggest that the investigated approach could be a promising strategy to obtain topical formulations with increased hydrating effects.

Intranasal Surface-Modified Mosapride Citrate-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (MOS-SMNLCs) for Treatment of Reflux Diseases: In vitro Optimization, Pharmacodynamics, and Pharmacokinetic Studies

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is an esophageal injury occurred when the stomach contents reflux abnormally into the esophagus. GERD complications include esophageal adenocarcinoma. Mosapride (MOS) is a safe prokinetic agent potentially used to treat GERD. Yet, its low solubility and bioavailability due to extensive first-pass metabolism limits its applications. This study aimed to formulate MOS nanostructured lipid carriers (MOS-NLCs) via the intranasal route to improve its bioavailability. Melt-emulsification low temperature-solidification technique using 2³ full factorial design was adopted to formulate MOS-NLCs. Eight formulae were prepared and assessed in terms of entrapment efficiency (%EE), particle size, and in vitro release. Glycerol addition significantly reduced the particle sizes and improved %EE and %drug released. Surface modification using chitosan was applied. The optimized MOS surface-modified nanostructured lipid carriers (MOS-SMNLCs-F7)(stearic acid, 4% glycerol, 0.5% LuterolF127, 0.5% chitosan) showed low particle size 413.8 nm ± 11.46 nm and high %EE 90.19% ± 0.06% and a threefold increase in permeation of MOS with respect to the drug suspension. MOS-SMNLCs (F7) was also evaluated for its bioavailability compared with drug suspension and commercial product. Statistical analysis revealed a significant increase in gastric emptying rate to be 21.54 ± 1.88 contractions/min compared with10.02 ± 0.62 contractions/min and 8.9 ± 0.72 contractions/min for drug suspension and oral marketed product respectively. Pharmacokinetic studies showed 2.44-fold rise in bioavailability as compared to MOS suspension and 4.54-fold as compared to the oral marketed product. In vitro/in vivo studies proven to level A correlation between in vitro permeation through sheep nasal mucosa and in vivo absorption. Therefore, MOS-SMNLCs could be considered a step forward towards enhancing the clinical efficacy of Mosapride.

Following-up skin penetration of lidocaine from different vehicles by Raman spectroscopic mapping

The application of local anesthetics, usually administered by subcutaneous injection, is common in the course of diagnostic, therapeutic, and cosmetic dermatology procedures. The effective dermal delivery of lidocaine could offer a solution to many adverse effects caused by needle insertion, such as pain, local reactions or toxicity, and additionally, it avoids the disruption of anatomical landmarks. Therefore, novel dermal formulations of local anesthetics are needed to overcome the barrier function of the skin and provide sufficient and prolonged anesthesia. In our study, we aimed to investigate and compare the penetration profiles of four different lidocaine containing formulations (hydrogel, oleogel, lyotropic liquid crystal and nanostructured lipid carrier) by Raman microscopic mapping of the drug. The application of Raman spectroscopy provided information about the spatial distribution of lidocaine in the skin ex vivo. The penetration of lidocaine from lyotropic liquid crystal and nanostructured carrier reached deeper skin layers and a higher amount of the drug was diffused into the skin, compared with hydrogel and oleogel. This study confirmed that nanostructured carriers can improve skin penetration properties of lidocaine and proved the applicability of Raman spectroscopy in the research of dermatological preparations ex vivo as a nondestructive, relatively easy and fast technique.

Idebenone: Novel Strategies to Improve Its Systemic and Local Efficacy

The key role of antioxidants in treating and preventing many systemic and topical diseases is well recognized. One of the most potent antioxidants available for pharmaceutical and cosmetic use is Idebenone (IDE), a synthetic analogue of Coenzyme Q10. Unfortunately, IDE's unfavorable physicochemical properties such as poor water solubility and high lipophilicity impair its bioavailability after oral and topical administration and prevent its parenteral use. In recent decades, many strategies have been proposed to improve IDE effectiveness in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and skin disorders. After a brief description of IDE potential therapeutic applications and its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile, this review will focus on the different approaches investigated to overcome IDE drawbacks, such as IDE incorporation into different types of delivery systems (liposomes, cyclodextrins, microemulsions, self-micro-emulsifying drug delivery systems, lipid-based nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles) and IDE chemical modification. The results of these studies will be illustrated with emphasis on the most innovative strategies and their future perspectives.

Preparation and Characterization of Minoxidil Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are interesting delivery systems for enhancing the penetration of an active substance through the skin after topical administration. The present paper described the development of a novel NLCs for minoxidil (MXD) topical delivery. Stearic acid and oleic acid that showed the highest solubility for MXD were selected as solid lipid and liquid lipid, respectively, and the NLCs were prepared by hot high pressure homogenization method. The minoxidil loaded NLCs prepared accordingly to the optimal formulation exhibited spherical shape with a mean diameter of 281.4 ± 7.4 nm, polydispersity of 0.207 ± 0.009, zeta potential of -32.90 ± 1.23 mV, drug entrapment efficiency of 92.48 ± 0.31%, and drug loading of 13.85 ± 0.47%. Storage stability studies demonstrated that the particle size and entrapment efficiency of the MXD-NLCs were not changed during 3 months both at 4°C and room temperature. Moreover, the release of MXD from the NLCs was faster than drug release from SLNs. In vitro skin permeability test demonstrated that MXD-NLCs had a more pronounced permeation and retention profile than MXD-SLNs. Furthermore, no erythema was observed after administration of MXD-NLCs. All these results indicated that the developed MXD-NLCs could be a promising and effective nanocarrier for topical delivery of MXD.

Recent Advances in Lipid-Based Vesicles and Particulate Carriers for Topical and Transdermal Application

In the recent decade, skin delivery (topical and transdermal) has gained an unprecedented popularity, especially due to increased incidences of chronic skin diseases, demand for targeted and patient compliant delivery, and interest in life cycle management strategies among pharmaceutical companies. Literature review of recent publications indicates that among various skin delivery systems, lipid-based delivery systems (vesicular carriers and lipid particulate systems) have been the most successful. Vesicular carriers consist of liposomes, ultradeformable liposomes, and ethosomes, while lipid particulate systems consist of lipospheres, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers. These systems can increase the skin drug transport by improving drug solubilization in the formulation, drug partitioning into the skin, and fluidizing skin lipids. Considering that lipid-based delivery systems are regarded as safe and efficient, they are proving to be an attractive delivery strategy for the pharmaceutical as well as cosmeceutical drug substances. However, development of these delivery systems requires comprehensive understanding of physicochemical characteristics of drug and delivery carriers, formulation and process variables, mechanism of skin delivery, recent technological advancements, specific limitations, and regulatory considerations. Therefore, this review article encompasses recent research advances addressing the aforementioned issues.

Applications and limitations of lipid nanoparticles in dermal and transdermal drug delivery via the follicular route

Lipid nanoparticles (LN) such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanolipid carriers (NLC) feature several claimed benefits for topical drug therapy including biocompatible ingredients, drug release modification, adhesion to the skin, and film formation with subsequent hydration of the superficial skin layers. However, penetration and permeation into and across deeper skin layers are restricted due to the barrier function of the stratum corneum (SC). As different kinds of nanoparticles provide the potential for penetration into hair follicles (HF) LN are applicable drug delivery systems (DDS) for this route in order to enhance the dermal and transdermal bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). Therefore, this review addresses the HF as application site, published formulations of LN which showed follicular penetration (FP), and characterization methods in order to identify and quantify the accumulation of API delivered by the LN in the HF. Since LN are based on lipids that appear in human sebum which is the predominant medium in HF an increased localization of the colloidal carriers as well as a promoted drug release may be assumed. Therefore, sebum-like lipid material and a size of less or equal 640 nm are appropriate specifications for FP of particulate formulations.

LeciPlex, invasomes, and liposomes: A skin penetration study

The present study compares three vesicular systems, cationic LeciPlex, invasomes, and conventional liposomes for their ability to deliver drugs deep into the skin. Skin penetration ability of the three vesicular systems was studied for two drugs namely idebenone (antioxidant/anticancer) and azelaic acid (antiacne). All systems showed sizes in nanometer range with small polydispersity indices. Vesicular systems were characterized by CryoTEM studies to understand the differences in morphology of the vesicular systems. Ex vivo human skin penetration studies suggested a pattern in penetration of drugs in different layers of the skin: LeciPlex showed higher penetration for idebenone whereas invasomes showed higher penetration of azelaic acid. Ex vivo study using a fluorescent dye (DiI) was performed to understand the differences in the penetration behavior of the three vesicular systems on excised human skin. In vitro cytotoxicity studies on B16F10 melanoma cell lines revealed, when loaded with idebenone, LeciPlex formulations had the superior activity followed by invasomes and liposomes. In vitro antimicrobial study of azelaic acid loaded systems on Propionibacterium acne revealed high antimicrobial activity for DDAB leciplex followed by almost equal activity for invasomes and CTAB LeciPlex followed by liposomes. Whereas antiacne efficacy study in rats for azelaic acid loaded systems, invasomes exhibited the best antiacne efficacy followed by liposomes and LeciPlex.

Preparation of a capsaicin-loaded nanoemulsion for improving skin penetration

Capsaicin o/w nanoemulsions with enhanced skin permeation were successfully prepared by controlling the ratios of the surfactant mixtures, oleoresin capsicum as the oil phase, and aqueous phase. Oleoresin capsicum contains 22.67 mg/g of capsaicin, which is an active and oil-soluble ingredient. Nonionic surfactants, Tween 80 and Span 80, were used to optimize the weight ratio of surfactant mixtures (85.98:14.02) by calculating the hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) value. The optimal processing conditions for stable nanoemulsions were investigated by using a ternary phase diagram. The mean droplet size of nanoemulsions ranged from 20 to 62 nm. Skin permeation studies were performed using a Franz diffusion cell. The permeation profiles and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images supported that capsaicin nanoemulsion could well permeate all skin layers from the stratum corneum to the dermis. The selected nanoemulsions showed great potential as transdermal delivery carriers for enhancing the permeation of core materials.