Nanocarrier-based hydrogel of betamethasone dipropionate and salicylic acid for treatment of psoriasis

Calcipotriol Nanosuspension-Loaded Trilayer Dissolving Microneedle Patches for the Treatment of Psoriasis: In Vitro Delivery and In Vivo Antipsoriatic Activity Studies

Psoriasis, affecting 2-3% of the global population, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition without a definitive cure. Current treatments focus on managing symptoms. Recognizing the need for innovative drug delivery methods to enhance patient adherence, this study explores a new approach using calcipotriol monohydrate (CPM), a primary topical treatment for psoriasis. Despite its effectiveness, CPM's therapeutic potential is often limited by factors like the greasiness of topical applications, poor skin permeability, low skin retention, and lack of controlled delivery. To overcome these challenges, the study introduces CPM in the form of nanosuspensions (NSs), characterized by an average particle size of 211 ± 2 nm. These CPM NSs are then incorporated into a trilayer dissolving microneedle patch (MAP) made from poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and w poly(vinyl alcohol) as needle arrays and prefrom 3D printed polylactic acid backing layer. This MAP features rapidly dissolving tips and exhibits good mechanical properties and insertion capability with delivery efficiency compared to the conventional Daivonex ointment. The effectiveness of this novel MAP was tested on Sprague-Dawley rats with imiquimod-induced psoriasis, demonstrating efficacy comparable to the marketed ointment. This innovative trilayer dissolving MAP represents a promising new local delivery system for calcipotriol, potentially revolutionizing psoriasis treatment by enhancing drug delivery and patient compliance.

Nanocellulose-Based Film-Forming Hydrogels for Improved Outcomes in Atopic Skin

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by impaired skin barrier function. Amongst the various dermal formulations that are being used and/or investigated for AD treatment, one of the advanced approaches is the use of hydrogels as film-forming systems that are applied directly to the skin and have the added value of providing a physical barrier, which is lacking in atopic skin. Novel film-forming hydrogels based on two different nanocrystalline celluloses (NCCs) in combination with one of two natural polymers (alginate or pectin) were developed for incorporation of betamethasone dipropionate (BDP). Initially, the low water solubility of BDP was resolved by prior dissolution in a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS). The mixture of Kolliphor^® EL/Capryol^® 90 in a ratio of 8/2 was chosen on the merit of its high BDP-saturated solubility and no BDP precipitation upon water dilution, enabling BDP to remain dissolved after incorporation into hydrogels. The solvent evaporation method was used to prepare the films, and their high water retention capacity was confirmed in vitro on artificial membranes and pig ear skin. The presented results thus confirm NCC-based film-forming hydrogels as a very promising drug delivery system for AD treatment.

Nanoscale Topical Pharmacotherapy in Management of Psoriasis: Contemporary Research and Scope

Psoriasis is a typical dermal condition that has been anticipated since prehistoric times when it was mistakenly implicit in being a variant of leprosy. It is an atypical organ-specific autoimmune disorder, which is triggered by the activation of T-cells and/or B-cells. Until now, the pathophysiology of this disease is not completely explicated and still, many research investigations are ongoing. Different approaches have been investigated to treat this dreadful skin disease using various anti-psoriatic drugs of different modes of action through smart drug-delivery systems. Nevertheless, there is no ideal therapy for a complete cure of psoriasis owing to the dearth of an ideal drug-delivery system for anti-psoriatic drugs. The conventional pharmacotherapy approaches for the treatment of psoriasis demand various classes of anti-psoriatic drugs with optimum benefit/risk ratio and insignificant untoward effects. The advancement in nanoscale drug delivery had a great impact on the establishment of a nanomedicine-based therapy for better management of psoriasis in recent times. Nanodrug carriers are exploited to design and develop nanomedicine-based therapy for psoriasis. It has a promising future in the improvement of the therapeutic efficacy of conventional anti-psoriatic drugs. The present manuscript aims to discuss the pathophysiology, conventional pharmacotherapy, and contemporary research in the area of nanoscale topical drug delivery systems for better management of psoriasis including the significance of targeted pharmacotherapy in psoriasis.

Preparation and Characterization of Lidocaine-Loaded, Microemulsion-Based Topical Gels

Microemulsion-based gels (MBGs) were prepared for transdermal delivery of lidocaine and evaluated for their potential for local anesthesia. Lidocaine solubility was measured in various oils, and phase diagrams were constructed to map the concentration range of oil, surfactant, cosurfactant, and water for oil-in-water (o/w) microemulsion (ME) domains, employing the water titration method at different surfactant/cosurfactant weight ratios. Refractive index, electrical conductivity, droplet size, zeta potential, pH, viscosity, and stability of fluid o/w MEs were evaluated. Carbomer^® 940 was incorporated into the fluid drug-loaded MEs as a gelling agent. Microemulsion-based gels were characterized for spreadability, pH, viscosity, and in-vitro drug release measurements, and based on the results obtained, the best MBGs were selected and subsequently subjected to ex-vivo rat skin permeation anesthetic effect and irritation studies. Data indicated the formation of nano-sized droplets of MEs ranging from 20 - 52 nm with a polydispersity of less than 0.5. In-vitro release and ex-vivo permeation studies on MBGs showed significantly higher drug release and permeation in comparison to the marketed topical gel. Developed MBG formulations demonstrated greater potential for transdermal delivery of lidocaine and advantage over the commercially available gel product, and therefore, they may be considered as potential vehicles for the topical delivery of lidocaine.

Immunoregulation and anti-metalloproteinase bioactive injectable polysalicylate matrixgel for efficiently treating osteoarthritis

Current treatments of osteoarthritis, such as oral medication and intra-articular injections, only provided temporary relief from pain and achieved limited advance in inhibiting progression. The development of new treatments is hindered by the complicated and unclear pathological mechanisms. Oxidative stress and immune inflammation are believed to be the important factors in the induction and progression of osteoarthritis. Herein, this work presents a bioactive material strategy to treat osteoarthritis, based on the FPSOH matrixgel with robust anti-inflammatory activity through inhibiting the oxidative stress and nuclear factor kappa B signaling, preventing the metalloproteinase, as well as inducing M2 polarization of macrophage, thereby providing immune regulation of synovial macrophages and suppressing the progression of synovitis and osteoarthritis. In vivo experiments demonstrated that FPSOH hydrogel can prevent papain-induced osteoarthritis and its progression, and provide dual protection for cartilage and synovium, as compared with commercial sodium hyaluronate.

Topical and transdermal delivery with diseased human skin: passive and iontophoretic delivery of hydrocortisone into psoriatic and eczematous skin

Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (eczema) are both common immune-mediated inflammatory skin diseases associated with changes in skin's stratum corneum lipid structure and barrier functionality. The present study aimed to investigate healthy, eczematous, and psoriatic excised human tissue for the effect of non-infectious skin diseases on skin characteristics (surface color, pH, transepidermal water loss, electrical resistance, and histology), as well as on permeation and retention profile of hydrocortisone. Further, differences in percutaneous absorption on application of iontophoresis on healthy and diseased skin were also investigated. Measurements of transepidermal water loss and electrical resistance showed a significant difference in psoriasis skin samples indicating a damaged barrier function. In vitro permeation studies on full-thickness human skin using vertical diffusion cells further confirmed these results as the drug amount retained in the psoriatic tissue was significantly higher when compared with the other groups. Despite no significant difference, the presence of the drug in the receptor chamber in both diseased groups can be concerning as it suggests the increased possibility of systemic absorption and adverse reactions associated with it in the use of topical corticosteroids. Application of anodal iontophoresis resulted in greater distribution of hydrocortisone into deeper layers of skin and the receptor chamber, in comparison to passive permeation. However, no significant differences were observed due to the healthy or diseased condition of skin.

Lipid-based nanoparticles for psoriasis treatment: a review on conventional treatments, recent works, and future prospects

Psoriasis is a lingering inflammatory skin disease that attacks the immune system. The abnormal interactions between T cells, immune cells, and inflammatory cytokines causing the epidermal thickening. International guidelines have recommended topical treatments for mild to moderate psoriasis whilst systemic and phototherapy treatments for moderate to severe psoriasis. However, current therapeutic approaches have a wider extent to treat moderate to severe type of psoriasis especially since the emergence of diverse biologic agents. In the meantime, topical delivery of conventional treatments has prompted many unsatisfactory effects to penetrate through the skin (stratum corneum). By understanding the physiology of stratum corneum barrier functions, scientists have developed different types of lipid-based nanoparticles like solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanovesicles, and nanoemulsions. These novel drug delivery systems help the poorly solubilised active pharmaceutical ingredient reaches the targeted site seamlessly because of the bioavailability feature of the nanosized molecules. Lipid-based nanoparticles for psoriasis treatments create a paradigm for topical drug delivery due to their lipids' amphiphilic feature to efficiently encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs. This review highlights different types of lipid-based nanoparticles and their recent works of nano formulated psoriasis treatments. The encapsulation of psoriasis drugs through lipid nanocarriers unfold numerous research opportunities in pharmaceutical applications but also draw challenges for the future development of nano drugs.

Nano intervention in topical delivery of corticosteroid for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis-a systematic review

Atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis are highly prevalent, complex, chronic inflammatory skin diseases that immensly affect the patient's quality of life. While there is no definitive cure for these conditions, suppressive medications aim at managing the symptoms of these diseases. The application of emollients accompanied by symptomatic anti-inflammatory therapy consisting of topical corticosteroids (TCS) is extensively employed for controlling the symptoms among general practitioners making this therapeutic class an indispensable pillar of dermatotherapeutics. The first TCS, hydrocortisone (HC) introduced in the early 1950s led to the development of different steroidal moieties of varying potencies by inducing chemical modifications to the basic steroid structure. The wide spectrum of the available range of formulations and potency provides flexibility to treat all patient groups, different phases of the diseases, and different anatomical sites. Conventional TCS therapy suffers from drawbacks such as low drug permeation and retention rate. Thus, novel nanoformulations have been developed to overcome these problems. This review provides an insight into the current state of nanocarrier-mediated topical delivery of corticosteroids monotherapy and combination therapy with special emphasis on targeting psoriasis and AD.

Recent Advancement in Topical Nanocarriers for the Treatment of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a life-threatening autoimmune inflammatory skin disease, triggered by T lymphocyte. Recently, the drugs most commonly used for the treatment of psoriasis include methotrexate (MTX), cyclosporine (CsA), acitretin, dexamethasone, and salicylic acid. However, conventional formulations due to poor absorptive capacity, inconsistent drug release characteristics, poor capability of selective targeting, poor retention of drug molecules in target tissue, and unintended skin reactions restrict the clinical efficacy of drugs. Advances in topical nanocarriers allow the development of prominent drug delivery platforms can be employed to address the critical issues associated with conventional formulations. Advances in nanocarriers design, nano-dimensional configuration, and surface functionalization allow formulation scientists to develop formulations for a more effective treatment of psoriasis. Moreover, interventions in the size distribution, shape, agglomeration/aggregation potential, and surface chemistry are the significant aspects need to be critically evaluated for better therapeutic results. This review attempted to explore the opportunities and challenges of current revelations in the nano carrier-based topical drug delivery approach used for the treatment of psoriasis.

Polymeric Gels and Their Application in the Treatment of Psoriasis Vulgaris: A Review

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease, and it is especially characterized by the occurrence of red, itchy, and scaly eruptions on the skin. The quality of life of patients with psoriasis is decreased because this disease remains incurable, despite the rapid progress of therapeutic methods and the introduction of many innovative antipsoriatic drugs. Moreover, many patients with psoriasis are dissatisfied with their current treatment methods and the form with which the drug is applied. The patients complain about skin irritation, clothing stains, unpleasant smell, or excessive viscosity of the preparation. The causes of these issues should be linked with little effectiveness of the therapy caused by low permeation of the drug into the skin, as well as patients’ disobeying doctors’ recommendations, e.g., concerning regular application of the preparation. Both of these factors are closely related to the physicochemical form of the preparation and its rheological and mechanical properties. To improve the quality of patients’ lives, it is important to gain knowledge about the specific form of the drug and its effect on the safety and efficacy of a therapy as well as the patients’ comfort during application. Therefore, we present a literature review and a detailed analysis of the composition, rheological properties, and mechanical properties of polymeric gels as an alternative to viscous and greasy ointments. We discuss the following polymeric gels: hydrogels, oleogels, emulgels, and bigels. In our opinion, they have many characteristics (i.e., safety, effectiveness, desired durability, acceptance by patients), which can contribute to the development of an effective and, at the same time comfortable, method of local treatment of psoriasis for patients.

Novel drug delivery strategies and gene therapy regimen as a promising perspective for management of psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder; however, an exact underlying mechanism responsible for psoriasis is yet not known. A hypothesis put forward is an abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes due to faulty signals brought about by T-cells. Due to the lack of evidence of the exact cause, a variety of treatments have been used of which topical therapy is usually the first option in most patients. Topical therapy has several shortcomings and barriers of drug delivary which may be effectively overcome using novel drug carrier systems which exhibit maximum penetration, controlled release, reduced irritancy and, overall, a better efficacy. Thus, novel treatment strategies based on gene therapy such as antisensing nucleotide, silencing RNA complex, stem cell therapy and antibody-based therapy are being envisaged. This review article discusses the concepts and background of current novel delivery systems and gene therapy tools for effective management of psoriasis.

Novel Gel Microemulsion as Topical Drug Delivery System for Curcumin in Dermatocosmetics

Gel microemulsion combines the advantages of the microemulsion, which can encapsulate, protect and deliver large quantities of active ingredients, and the gel, which is so appreciated in the cosmetic industry. This study aimed to develop and characterize new gel microemulsions suitable for topical cosmetic applications, using grape seed oil as the oily phase, which is often employed in pharmaceuticals, especially in cosmetics. The optimized microemulsion was formulated using Tween 80 and Plurol^® Diisostearique CG as a surfactant mix and ethanol as a co-solvent. Three different water-soluble polymers were selected in order to increase the viscosity of the microemulsion: Carbopol^® 980 NF, chitosan, and sodium hyaluronate salt. All used ingredients are safe, biocompatible and biodegradable. Curcumin was chosen as a model drug. The obtained systems were physico-chemically characterized by means of electrical conductivity, dynamic light scattering, polarized microscopy and rheometric measurements. Evaluation of the cytotoxicity was accomplished by MTT assay. In the final phase of the study, the release behavior of Curcumin from the optimized microemulsion and two gel microemulsions was evaluated. Additionally, mathematical models were applied to establish the kinetic release mechanism. The obtained gel microemulsions could be effective systems for incorporation and controlled release of the hydrophobic active ingredients.

Development of Triamcinolone Acetonide-Loaded Microemulsion as a Prospective Ophthalmic Delivery System for Treatment of Uveitis: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation

Treatment of uveitis (i.e., inflammation of the uvea) is challenging due to lack of convenient ophthalmic dosage forms. This work is aimed to determine the efficiency of triamcinolone acetonide (TA)-loaded microemulsion as an ophthalmic delivery system for the treatment of uveitis. Water titration method was used to construct different pseudo-ternary phase diagrams. Twelve microemulsion formulations were prepared using oleic acid, Cremophor EL, and propylene glycol. Among all tested formulations, Formulation F3, composed of oil: surfactant-co-surfactant (1:1): water (15:35:50% w/w, respectively), was found to be stable and showed acceptable pH, viscosity, conductivity, droplet size (211 ± 1.4 nm), and zeta potential (-25 ± 1.7 mV) and almost complete in vitro drug release within 24 h. The in vivo performance of the optimized formulation was evaluated in experimentally uveitis-induced rabbit model and compared with a commercial TA suspension (i.e., Kenacort®-A) either topically or by subconjunctival injection. Ocular inflammation was evaluated by clinical examination, white blood cell count, protein content measurement, and histopathological examination. The developed TA-loaded microemulsion showed superior therapeutic efficiency in the treatment of uveitis with high patient compliance compared to commercial suspension. Hence, it could be considered as a potential ocular treatment option in controlling of uveitis.

Treatment Strategies Against Psoriasis: Principle, Perspectives and Practices

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a genetically predisposed autoimmune disease mediated by cytokines released by the activated immune cells. It manifests inflammatory, scaly red or white silvery flaky skin which may be a fluid-filled lesion with soreness and itchiness. The prevalence rate of psoriasis is increasing day by day. Despite having such a high prevalence rate, the treatment of psoriasis is still limited. Hence, there is a need to rethink the various treatment strategies available in the allopathic as well as in the alternative systems of medicine.

METHODS

Various bibliographic databases of previously published peer-reviewed research papers were explored and systematic data culminated in terms of various treatment strategies used for the management of psoriasis. The prime focus is given towards modern as well as alternative systems of medicine such as phototherapy, a combination of phototherapy with pharmacotherapy such as Ayurveda, Yoga and naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy to treat psoriasis.

RESULTS

A comprehensive review of 161 papers, including both research and review articles, was carried out to make the article readily understandable. The pathogenesis including inflammatory mediators and type of psoriasis is discussed before the treatment strategies to understand the pathophysiology of the disease. The uniqueness, procedure, advantages, and limitations of conventional, advanced, and traditional systems of medicine to treat psoriasis are discussed in detail. Emphasis has also been given towards marine sources such as fish oil, marine sponges, and algae.

CONCLUSION

Although there are many modern and alternative treatment strategies available to treat psoriasis, none of them have been proven to provide complete relief to patients. Moreover, they are associated with certain side effects. In order to overcome them, novel drug delivery systems have been utilized and found effective; however, their stability and safety become the major impediments towards their successful positioning. Traditional and alternative treatment strategies have found to be safe and effective but their use is localized to certain areas. In a nutshell, to achieve successful treatment of psoriasis, there is a need to focus on the development of stable and non-toxic novel drug delivery systems or the promotion of traditional systems to treat psoriasis.

Tackling the various classes of nano-therapeutics employed in topical therapy of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a dermatological chronic skin condition with underlying autoimmune etiology. It deeply affects patients' quality of life. Therefore, it was an interesting target for researchers throughout the past years. Conventionally, the treatment options include anti-inflammatory agents, immune suppressants, biologic treatment, and phototherapy. Nanotechnology offers promising characteristics that allow for tailoring a drug carrier to achieve dermal targeting, improved efficacy and minimize undesirable effects. Being the safest route, the first line of treatment and a targeted approach, we solely discussed the use of the topical route, combined with advanced drug delivery systems for the management of psoriasis in this article. Advanced systems include polymeric, metallic, lipidic and hybrid nanocarriers incorporating different active agents. All formerly mentioned types of drug delivery systems were investigated through the past decades for the purpose of topical application on psoriatic plaques. Scientists' efforts are promising to reach an optimized formula with a convenient dosage form to improve efficacy, safety, and compliance for the treatment of psoriasis. Accordingly, it will offer a better quality of life for patients.

Novel nanoemulsion gel containing triple natural bio-actives combination of curcumin, thymoquinone, and resveratrol improves psoriasis therapy: in vitro and in vivo studies

Curcumin, resveratrol, and thymoquinone are the potential natural bio-actives reported with good anti-psoriatic activity. However, poor aqueous solubility and limited skin permeation of these natural bio-actives hinder their effective delivery and potential therapeutic outcome. In this regard, current research work focuses on the design and optimization of nanoemulsion (NE) gel formulation for the concurrent delivery of these three drugs. The NE system is consisting of oleic acid as oil phase, Tween 20 as surfactant, and PEG 200 as co-surfactant. The optimized formulation exhibited the droplet size 76.20 ± 1.67 nm, PDI of 0.12 ± 0.05, RI of 1.403 ± 0.007, and viscosity of 137.9 ± 4.07 mp. Carbopol 940 (0.5% w/v) was used as the gelling agent to prepare the NE gel which exhibited a good texture profile. The optimized formulation exhibited a higher % of growth inhibition on A-431 cells and demonstrated good anti-angiogenic activity in the HET-CAM test. Finally, in vivo studies in Balb/c mice model showed improved anti-psoriatic conditions which indicated that the triple natural bio-actives combination in nanoemulgel formulation is effective in the management of psoriasis.

Treatment Modalities of Psoriasis: A Focus on Requisite for Topical Nanocarrier

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease involving cascading release of cytokines activated by the innate and acquired immune system. The increasing prevalence rate of psoriasis demands for more appropriate therapy. The existing chemical moiety is promising for better therapeutic outcome, but the selection of a proper channel for administration has to be reviewed. Hence there is a need to select the most appropriate dosage form and route of administration for improving the curative rate of psoriasis.

RESULTS

A total of 108 systematic reviews of research and review articles were conducted to make the manuscript comprehensible. The role of inflammatory mediators in the pathogenesis of the disease is discussed for a better understanding of the selection of pharmacotherapy. The older and newer therapeutic moiety with its mode of administration for psoriasis treatment has been discussed. With a comparative review on topical and oral administration of first-line drugs such as methotrexate (MTX), cyclosporine (CsA), and betamethasone, its benefits-liabilities in the selected routes were accounted for. Emphasis has also been paid on advanced nanocarriers for dermatologic applications.

CONCLUSION

For a better therapeutic outcome, proper selection of drug moiety with its appropriate administration is the major requisite. With the advent of nanotechnology, the development of nanocarrier for dermatologic application has been successfully demonstrated in positioning the systemically administrated drug into topical targeted delivery. In a nutshell, to achieve successful treatment strategies towards psoriasis, there is a need to focus on the development of stable, non-toxic nanocarrier for topical delivery. Inclusion of the existing orally administered drug moiety into nanocarriers for topical delivery is proposed in order to enhance therapeutics payload with reduced side effects which serves as a better treatment approach for relief of the psoriasis condition.

Hydrogel-Based Active Substance Release Systems for Cosmetology and Dermatology Application: A Review

Hydrogels are playing an increasingly important role in medicine and pharmacy. Due to their favorable physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and designed interaction with living surroundings, they seem to be one of the most promising groups of biomaterials. Hydrogel formulations from natural, semi, or synthetic polymeric materials have gained great attention in recent years for treating various dermatology maladies and for cosmetology procedures. The purpose of this review is to present a brief review on the basic concept of hydrogels, synthesis methods, relevant mechanisms, and applications in dermatology or cosmetology. This review discusses transdermal therapies and the recent advances that have occurred in the field.

Development and characterisation of clobetasol propionate loaded Squarticles as a lipid nanocarrier for treatment of plaque psoriasis

Aim: The aim of this project is to improve the therapeutic effectiveness, permeation and retention of clobetasol propionate in sebaceous glands by reporting the use of Squarticles as lipidic nanosystem.Methods: Homogenisation method is used for the formulation of Squarticles (nanoemulgel) which was characterised on the basis of size, polydispersity index (PDI), viscosity, spreadability, DSC, % in vitro release, in vitro skin permeation deposition studies, and in vivo studies, scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and physical storage stability studies were done at different temperature conditions, i.e. 4 ± 2 °C, 25 ± 2 °C and 45 ± 2 °C for a period of 6 months for drug and formulation.Result: The morphological characterisation of prepared nanoemulsion shows small spherical shape and uniform size distribution as observed in the Scanning electron microscopic (SEM), having mean size (240.5 ± 9.2) and mean size distribution (0.282 ± 0.03) and zeta potential (-51.21). The drug release from optimised nanoemulsion (F2) in PBS (pH 5.5) was approximately 84.24 ± 1.35%, nanoemulgel formulations showed the release of 66.83 ± 2.05% while marketed gel showed the release of 57.67 ± 1.63% after 24 h. The cumulative percentage retention of clobetasol propionate loaded nanoemulgel was 63 ± 1.28% which was more than the marketed formulation (23.12% ±0.54). Physical stability studies show that formulation is more stable in cold condition. Further, the stability of active ingredient in gel formulation was determined using HPLC which shows around 15 ± 0.84% of loss in its activity.Conclusion: The present work has demonstrated the use of Squarticles as a novel carrier for treatment of plaque psoriasis by enhancing the better permeation, increasing skin retention, and enhances the effect of drug. The study also shows that the formulation is more stable in cold condition.

Development of Topical Gel of Methotrexate Incorporated Ethosomes and Salicylic Acid for the Treatment of Psoriasis

BACKGROUND

There is an unmet need for optimized drug delivery system of psoriasis therapy because of various issues like adverse reaction, permeation problem associated with convention treatment (oral and topical) available for psoriasis.

OBJECTIVE

The goal was to develop an ethosomal gel of methotrexate (MTX)-incorporated ethosomes and salicylic acid (SA) and to evaluate and study its ethosomal gel potential in Imiquimod-induced psoriasis animal model to treat symptoms of psoriasis.

METHODS

MTX-SA ethosomal gel was prepared by the cold method given by Touitou et al. and optimized by comparing it with MTX ethosomal gel and drug solution. Particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and ex-vivo study were selected as the critical quality checking attributes. Psoriatic Area and Severity Index (PASI) score & histopathological examination were done for checking Antipsoriatic potential of MTX-SA ethosomal gel by using the imiquimod-induced psoriasis model.

RESULTS

Optimized MTX-SA exhibited a particle size of 376.04 ± 3.47nm, EE(Entrapment efficiency) of 91.77 ± 0.02%. At the end of 24h, MTX-SA ethosomal gel exhibited a slow and prolonged release of MTX (26.13 ± 1.61% versus 6.97 ± 0.06%) compared to MTX drug solution. It also attributes of 43% retention study as compared to drug solution (13%). Besides, it essentially decreased the PASI score with the recuperation of normalcy of the mice's skin, while the MTX-SA gel displayed indications of gentle hyper and parakeratosis toward the completion of investigation when contrasted with the blank gel.

CONCLUSION

The developed MTX-SA ethosomal gel formulation can be a promising alternative to existing MTX formulation in topically treating psoriasis.

Optimization and Evaluation of Beclomethasone Dipropionate Micelles Incorporated into Biocompatible Hydrogel Using a Sub-Chronic Dermatitis Animal Model

The current study is concerned with the development and characterization of mixed micelles intended for the dermal delivery of beclomethasone dipropionate, which is a topical corticosteroid used in the management of atopic dermatitis. Mixed micelles were prepared using thin-film hydration technique, employing different concentrations of pluronic L121 with either poloxamer P84 or pluronic F127 with different surfactant mixture-to-drug ratios. The prepared formulae were characterized concerning entrapment efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential. Two formulae were chosen for ex vivo skin deposition studies: one formulated using pluronic L121/poloxamer P84 mixture while the other using pluronic L121/pluronic F127 mixture. The optimum formula with the highest dermal deposition was subjected to morphological examination and was formulated as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogel. The hydrogel was evaluated regarding viscosity and was subjected to ex vivo deposition study in comparison with the commercially available cream Beclozone®. In vivo histopathological study was conducted for both the hydrogel and Beclozone® in order to evaluate their healing efficiency. In vivo histopathological study results showed that the prepared hydrogel successfully treated sub-chronic dermatitis in an animal model within a shorter period of time compared to Beclozone®, resulting in better patient compliance and fewer side effects.

Hydrogels for Atopic Dermatitis and Wound Management: A Superior Drug Delivery Vehicle

Wound management, in addition to presenting a significant burden to patients and their families, also contributes significantly to a country’s healthcare costs. Treatment strategies are numerous, but in most cases not ideal. Hydrogels, three-dimensional polymeric materials that can withstand a great degree of swelling without losing structural integrity, are drawing great attention for their use as topical wound management solutions in the form of films and as vehicles for drug delivery, due to their unique properties of high water content, biocompatibility, and flexibility. Hydrogels, both naturally and synthetically derived, can be tuned to respond to specific stimuli such as pH, temperature and light and they are ideally suited as drug delivery vehicles. Here we provide a brief overview of the history and characteristics of hydrogels, assess their uses in wound management and drug delivery, and compare them with other types of common drug delivery vehicle.

Drug nanocarriers to treat autoimmunity and chronic inflammatory diseases

Nanoparticles represent a new generation of drug delivery systems that can be engineered to harness optimal target selectivity for specific cells and tissues and high drug loading capacity, allowing for improved pharmacokinetics and enhanced bioavailability of therapeutics. The spontaneous propensity of both organic and colloidal nanoparticles to be captured by the cells of the reticuloendothelial system encouraged their utilization as passive targeting systems that can be preferentially directed to innate immune cells, such as macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils. The natural affinity for phagocytic cells suggests the possible implementation of nanoparticles as an immunotherapeutic platform for inflammatory diseases and autoimmune disorders. Here we discuss the recent advances in the application of nanotechnology to induce antigen-specific tolerance in autoimmunity and the use of nanoparticles for anti-inflammatory therapies, including treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Microemulsion utility in pharmaceuticals: Implications for multi-drug delivery

Emulsion technology has been utilized extensively in the pharmaceutical industry. This article presents a comprehensive review of the literature on an important subcategory of emulsions, microemulsions. Microemulsions are optically transparent, thermodynamically stable colloidal systems, 10-100nm diameter, that form spontaneously upon mixing of oil, water and emulsifier. This review is the first to address advantages and disadvantages, as well as considerations and challenges in multi-drug delivery. For the period 1 January 2011-30 April 2016, 431 publications related to microemulsion drug delivery were identified and screened according to microemulsion, drug classification, and surfactant types. Results indicate the use of microemulsions predominantly in lipophilic drug delivery (79.4%) via oil-in-water microemulsions and non-ionic surfactants (90%) for oral or topical administration. Cancer is the disease state most targeted followed by inflammatory diseases, microbial infections and cardiovascular disease. Key generalizations from this analysis include: 1) microemulsion formulation is largely based on trial-and-error despite over 1200 publications related to microemulsion drug delivery since their discovery in 1943; 2) characterization using methods including interfacial tension, droplet size, electrical conductivity, turbidity and viscosity may provide additional information for greater predictability; 3) microemulsion drug delivery publications arise primarily from China (27%) and India (21%) suggesting additional research opportunities elsewhere.

Oxyresveratrol and ascorbic acid O/W microemulsion: Preparation, characterization, anti-isomerization and potential application as antibrowning agent on fresh-cut lotus root slices

The purpose of this study is to prepare an oxyresveratrol (Oxy) microemulsion (ME) with improved Oxy's solubility and stability and to investigate its antibrowning effects on fresh-cut lotus root slices. The formula of OxyME consisted of ethyl butyrate, Tween 80, PEG400, and water with w/w of 4%, 10.67%, 5.33%, and 80%, respectively. Encapsulating Oxy into OxyME greatly increased its solubility and stability compared with that of in water. Strong antibrowning effects were observed on fresh-cut lotus root slices treated with OxyME, even better than 4-hexylresorcinol. The addition of ascorbic acid (VC) into OxyME greatly improved the Oxy stability in long-term storage and antibrowning effects on fresh-cut lotus root slices. However, the simultaneous addition of calcium chloride and VC did not obviously improve the antibrowning effects compared with the addition of VC alone. These results indicated that Oxy+VCME may be suitable as an antibrowning agent for fresh-cut vegetables.

Advances in psoriasis physiopathology and treatments: Up to date of mechanistic insights and perspectives of novel therapies based on innovative skin drug delivery systems (ISDDS)

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting mainly the skin but which can be complicated by psoriatic arthritis (PsA).This autoimmune skin disorder concerns 2-5% of the world population. To date, the physiopathology of psoriasis is not still completely elucidated but many researches are ongoing which have led for example to the discovery of the Th17/Th22 pathway. The conventional therapeutic approaches (local or systemic route) appeal to various classes of drugs with complex mechanisms of action and non-negligible side effects. Although there is no therapy capable to cure psoriasis, the current goal is to relieve symptoms as longer as possible with a good benefit/risk ratio. That is one of the principal limits of conventional antipsoriatic drugs. New formulations based on nanoencapsulation are a promising opportunity to answer to this limit by offering an optimization of the conventional antipsoriatic drug use (higher activity, lower side effects and frequency of application, etc.). Herein, we tried to put in perspective the mechanistic insights (histological and immunological views) proposed into scientific literature these last years in order to have a better comprehension of psoriasis physiopathology resulting in skin lesions and PsA. The therapeutic armamentarium and the different strategies in the management of psoriasis are discussed in greater details. To finish, the field of encapsulation in nanoparticles is broached in order to put forward recent advances in innovative skin drug delivery systems (ISDDSs) of antipsoriatic active agents for a better efficacy, safety and compliance.

Enhancement of Anti-Dermatitis Potential of Clobetasol Propionate by DHA [Docosahexaenoic Acid] Rich Algal Oil Nanoemulsion Gel

The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of nanoemulsion formulation for topical delivery of Clobetasol propionate (CP) using algal oil (containing omega-3 fatty acids) as the oil phase. CP has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antiproliferative activities. However, its clinical use is restricted to some extent due to its poor permeability across the skin. Algal oil was used as the oil phase and was also exploited for its anti-inflammatory effect along with CP in the treatment of inflammation associated with dermatitis. Nanoemulsion formulations were prepared by aqueous phase titration method, using algal oil, tween 20, PEG 200 and water as the oil phase, surfactant, co-surfactant and aqueous phase respectively. Furthermore, different formulations were subjected to evaluate for ex-vivo permeation and in-vivo anti-inflammatory, irritation and contact dermatitis studies. The optimized nanoemulsion was converted into hydrogel-thickened nanoemulsion system (HTN) using carbopol 971 and had a viscosity of 97.57 ± 0.04 PaS. The optimized formulation had small average diameter (120 nm) with zeta potential of -37.01 mV which indicated good long-term stability. In-vivo anti-inflammatory activity indicated 84.55% and 41.04% inhibition of inflammation for drug loaded and placebo formulations respectively. The assessment of skin permeation was done by DSC and histopathology studies which indicated changes in the structure of epidermal membrane of skin. Contact dermatitis reveals that the higher NTPDase activity in the treatment with the CP-loaded nanoemulsion could be related to the higher anti-inflammatory effect in comparison with placebo nanoemulsion gel.

Nanoemulsion as a topical delivery system of antipsoriatic drugs

Nanoemulsion as a potential enhancer for the treatment of psoriasis.

Development and Characterization of Cinnamon Leaf Oil Nanocream for Topical Application

Cinnamon leaf oil contains a high percentage of eugenol and has antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. However, the undiluted oil can cause irritation to the skin. Therefore, the aims of this study were to develop and evaluate cinnamon leaf oil nanocream using palm oil. Nanocream base was prepared using different ratios of oil, surfactants and water. The surfactant used were mixture of Tween 80:Carbitol or Tween 80:Span 65 at different hydrophile-lipophile balance values. The pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed to identify the nanocream base areas and the results showed that the nanocream bases using Span 65 as co-surfactant produced bigger cream area. Fifteen formulations using mixtures of Tween 80:Span 65 were further evaluated for accelerated stability test, droplet size, zeta potential, rheological properties and apparent viscosity. The nanocream base which had an average droplet size of 219 nm and had plastic flow with thixotropic behavior was selected for incorporation of 2% cinnamon leaf oil. The nanocream containing cinnamon leaf oil had the average size of 286 nm and good rheological characteristics. The in vitro release study demonstrated that eugenol as the main constituent of cinnamon leaf oil was released for about 81% in 10 h. The short-term stability study conducted for 6 months showed that the cinnamon leaf oil nanocream was stable at a temperature of 25° and thus, cinnamon leaf oil nanocream is a promising natural based preparation to be used for topical application.

Microemulsion system for topical delivery of thai mango seed kernel extract: development, physicochemical characterisation and ex vivo skin permeation studies

A microemulsion system containing Thai mango seed kernel extract (MSKE, cultivar “Fahlun”) was developed and characterised for the purpose of topical skin delivery. The MSKE-loaded microemulsions were prepared by using the spontaneous emulsification method. Isopropyl myristate (IPM) was selected as the oil phase. A polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate and sorbitan monododecanoate (1:1, w/w) system was used as the surfactant phase; an aqueous mixture of different cosurfactants (absolute ethanol, 96.3% v/v ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol or 1,2-propanediol) at a weight ratio of 1:1 was used as the aqueous phase. Among the cosurfactants studied, the 1-propanol aqueous mixture had the largest microemulsion region (48.93%) in the pseudo-ternary phase diagram. Microemulsions containing 1% MSKE demonstrated good physicochemical stability during a six-month study period at 25 ± 2 °C/60% ± 5% RH. The ex vivo skin permeation study demonstrated that the microemulsions exhibited a potent skin enhancement effect allowing MSKE to penetrate skin layers up to 60-fold higher compared with the control. Neither skin irritation nor skin corrosion was observed in ex vivo studies. The present study revealed that IPM-based microemulsion systems may be promising carriers to enhance skin penetration and delivering MSKE for topical treatment.

Progress in Psoriasis Therapy via Novel Drug Delivery Systems

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition which is caused by the negative signals produced by immune system, which leads to hyper proliferation and other inflammatory reactions on the skin. In this case, keratinocytes which are the outermost layer of skin possess shortened life cycle and results in the alteration of desquamation process where the cytokines will come out through lesions of affected patients and as a result, scaling marks appears on the skin. These conditions may negatively affect the patient’s quality of life and lead to psychosocial stress. Psoriasis can be categorized as mild, moderate and severe conditions. Mild psoriasis leads to the formation of rashes, and when it becomes moderate, the skin turns into scaly. In severe conditions, red patches may be present on skin surface and becomes itchy. Topical therapy continues to be one of the pillars for psoriasis management. Drug molecules with target effect on the skin tissues and other inflammations should be selected for the treatment of psoriasis. Most of the existing drugs lead to systemic intoxication and dryness when applied in higher dose. Different scientific approaches for topical delivery are being explored by researches including emollient, modified gelling system, transdermal delivery, spray, nanogels, hydrogels, micro/nano emulsion, liposomes, nano capsules etc. These topical dosage forms are evaluated for various physico chemical properties such as drug content, viscosity, pH, extrudability, spreadability, toxicity, irritancy, permeability and drug release mechanism. This review paper focus attention to the impact of these formulation approaches on various anti-psoriasis drugs for their successful treatment.

Development of novel ionic liquid-based microemulsion formulation for dermal delivery of 5-Fluorouracil

The present study was aimed at synthesizing an imidazole-based ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide (BMIMBr) and subsequent development of a novel ionic liquid-in-oil (IL/o) microemulsion (ME) system for dermal delivery of a poorly permeating drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). A significant enhancement in the solubility of 5-FU was observed in BMIMBr. IL/o MEs of 5-FU were prepared using isopropyl myristate, Tween 80/Span 20, and BMIMBr. Results of ex vivo skin permeation studies through mice skin indicated that the selected IL/o ME exhibited 4-fold enhancement in percent drug permeation as compared to aqueous solution, 2.3-fold as compared to hydrophilic ointment, and 1.6-fold greater permeation than water in oil (w/o) ME. The results of in vivo studies against dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced mice skin carcinogenesis demonstrated that the IL/o ME could effectively treat skin cancer in 4 weeks. In addition, the side effects such as erythema and irritation associated with the conventional formulations were not observed. Histopathological studies showed that the use of IL/o ME caused no anatomic and pathological changes in the skin structure of mice. These studies suggest that the use of IL-based ME system can efficiently enhance the solubility and permeability of 5-FU and hence its therapeutic efficacy.

Accelerated Stability Testing of a Clobetasol Propionate-Loaded Nanoemulsion as per ICH Guidelines

The physical and chemical degradation of drugs may result in altered therapeutic efficacy and even toxic effects. Therefore, the objective of this work was to study the stability of clobetasol propionate (CP) in a nanoemulsion. The nanoemulsion formulation containing CP was prepared by the spontaneous emulsification method. For the formulation of the nanoemulsion, Safsol, Tween 20, ethanol, and distilled water were used. The drug was incorporated into an oil phase in 0.05% w/v. The lipophilic nature of the drug led to the O/W nanoemulsion formulation. This was characterized by droplet size, pH, viscosity, conductivity, and refractive index. Stability studies were performed as per ICH guidelines for a period of three months. The shelf life of the nanoemulsion formulation was also determined after performing accelerated stability testing (40°C ± 2°C and 75% ± 5% RH). We also performed an intermediate stability study (30°C ± 2°C/65% RH ± 5% RH). It was found that the droplet size, conductivity, and refractive index were slightly increased, while the viscosity and pH slightly decreased at all storage conditions during the 3-month period. However, the changes in these parameters were not statistically significant (p≥0.05). The degradation (%) of the optimized nanoemulsion of CP was determined and the shelf life was found to be 2.18 years at room temperature. These studies confirmed that the physical and chemical stability of CP were enhanced in the nanoemulsion formulation.

Microemulsion-based oxyresveratrol for topical treatment of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: physicochemical properties and efficacy in cutaneous HSV-1 infection in mice

The physicochemical properties of the optimized microemulsion and the permeating ability of oxyresveratrol in microemulsion were evaluated, and the efficacy of oxyresveratrol microemulsion in cutaneous herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection in mice was examined. The optimized microemulsion was composed of 10% w/w of isopropyl myristate, 35% w/w of Tween 80, 35% w/w of isopropyl alcohol, and 20% w/w of water. The mean particle diameter was 9.67 ± 0.58 nm, and the solubility of oxyresveratrol in the microemulsion was 196.34 ± 0.80 mg/ml. After accelerated and long-term stability testing, the microemulsion base and oxyresveratrol-loaded microemulsion were stable. The cumulative amount of oxyresveratrol permeating through shed snake skin from microemulsion at 6 h was 93.04 times compared to that of oxyresveratrol from Vaseline, determined at 20% w/w concentration. In cutaneous HSV-1 infection in mice, oxyresveratrol microemulsion at 20%, 25%, and 30% w/w, topically applied five times daily for 7 days after infection, was significantly effective in delaying the development of skin lesions and protecting from death (p < 0.05) compared with the untreated control. Oxyresveratrol microemulsion at 25% and 30% w/w was significantly more effective than that of 30% w/w of oxyresveratrol in Vaseline (p < 0.05) and was as effective as 5% w/w of acyclovir cream, topically applied five times daily (p > 0.05). These results demonstrated that topical oxyresveratrol microemulsion at 20-30% w/w was suitable for cutaneous HSV-1 mouse infection.