Topical delivery of l-ascorbic acid spanlastics for stability enhancement and treatment of UVB induced damaged skin

Functional and molecular insights in topical wound healing by ascorbic acid

The skin acts as a vital barrier against external threats and regulates moisture levels. The skin's repair and rejuvenation encompass complex molecular and cellular mechanisms, constituting an essential yet intricate process to preserve skin integrity following trauma or surgical intervention. Acute wound repair unfolds through different interrelated stages, whereas chronic wounds pose significant healthcare challenges, often linked to conditions like diabetes and vascular diseases. Understanding of wound physiology is crucial for developing effective treatments. Chronic wounds require more comprehensive treatments, including surgical debridement, glycemic control, and antibiotic therapy. Ascorbic acid (AA) emerges as a promising wound-healing agent because it facilitates collagen synthesis, enhances antioxidant defense, promotes re-epithelialization and angiogenesis, regulates pH, and exhibits antimicrobial properties. Research outcomes on applying AA-based formulations on wound environment demonstrated its potential to accelerate wound closure and tissue regeneration, offering hope for improved wound management and reduced healthcare burdens associated with chronic wounds. The application of AA, which often utilizes innovative delivery methods and synergistic combinations with other actives, shows promise in preclinical studies for superior efficacy, biocompatibility, and controlled release profiles. Overall, AA-based therapies represent a significant avenue for advancing wound care and addressing the challenges of chronic wounds in healthcare systems.

Designing, Characterization, and Optimization of Nystatin Loaded Mucoadhesive Spanlastical Hard Candy Lozenges as a Treatment of Oral Candidiasis: An in-vivo Study on Rats

Introduction and Aim

 Oral candidiasis is a common infectious disease affecting children and adults who usually receive oral antibiotics or chemotherapy. Optimizing Nystatin administration is challenging due to its poor solubility and systemically non-absorbable nature. In this work, Nystatin Spanlastical-hard candies were prepared for Oro-local application to improve Nystatin's local antifungal efficacy, contact time, and taste.

Methods

 Eight Nystatin Spanlastics were prepared using the ethanol injection method via 23 factorial designs using Span, edge activator, and bath-sonication time at two levels. They were evaluated visually and examined for EE%, in-vitro release%, P-size, PDI, and Zeta-potential. The optimum formulae were compared to the marketed oral suspension Nystatin® by conducting an in-vitro antimicrobial study. The formula of the best antifungal activity was incorporated into four batches of hard candies by 22 factorial-design using heating and congealing method using corn-syrup and xanthan-gum in two levels of concentration along with other additives. After performing physiochemical evaluation, the optimum formula was subjected to FTIR analysis and an in-vivo study on rats to compare its activity with the selected market formula. The Design-Expert-13® and MS-Excel-2010® software were used to interpret all results statistically.

Results

The optimum Spanlastical formula was Sp3, which is a combination of Span 80 with SDC, and was sonicated for 3 minutes. The optimum lozenges were those of the SP3L1 batch containing the highest Corn syrup and Xanthan gum concentration levels. SP3L1 lozenges showed no interactions between their ingredients within the obtained FTIR spectra. They gave the animal subjects a higher in-vivo antifungal activity with a significant reduction in the colony formation units' count at P≤ 0.05 than the (Nystatin) marketed oral suspension. The rats also treated with SP3L1 showed very normal oral tissues by the end of the study period compared to those treated with the market oral formula (Nystatin).

Conclusion

This preclinical study merged nanotechnology with mucoadhesive lozenging to improve Nystatin's antifungal activity, oral residence, and ease of administration compared to the traditionally marketed oral suspension.

Development and Characterization of In Situ Gelling Nasal Cilostazol Spanlastics

Cilostazol (CIL), a BCS class II antiplatelet aggregation and vasodilator agent, is used for cerebrovascular diseases to minimize blood-brain barrier dysfunction, white matter-lesion formation, and motor deficits. The current work aimed to develop and optimize cilostazol-loaded spanlastics (CIL-SPA) for nose-to-brain delivery to overcome the low solubility and absorption, the first pass-metabolism, and the adverse effects. The optimal CIL-SPA formulation was loaded into Phytagel® (SPA-PG), Poloxamer-407 (SPA-P407), and chitosan (SPA-CS) gel bases and characterized in terms of colloidal properties, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), mucoadhesive properties, and biopharmaceutical aspects. The developed in situ gelling formulations showed a <300 nm average hydrodynamic diameter, <0.5 polydispersity index, and >|±30| mV zeta potential with a high EE% (>99%). All formulations met the droplet size-distribution criteria of nasal requirements (<200 µm), and all formulations showed adequate mucoadhesion properties. Both the BBB-PAMPA and horizontal permeability study through an artificial membrane revealed that all formulations had higher CIL flux and cumulative permeability at in vitro nose-to-brain conditions compared to the initial CIL. The in vitro drug-release study showed that all formulations released ca. 100% of CIL after 2 h. Therefore, the developed formulations could be promising for improving the low bioavailability of CIL through nose-to-brain delivery.

Fabrication of Thymoquinone and Ascorbic Acid-Loaded Spanlastics Gel for Hyperpigmentation: In Vitro Release, Cytotoxicity, and Skin Permeation Studies

Background/Objectives: The demand for a safe compound for hyperpigmentation is continuously increasing. Bioactive compounds such as thymoquinone (TQ) and ascorbic acid (AA) induce inhibition of melanogenesis with a high safety profile. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate spanlastics gel loaded with bioactive agents, TQ and AA, for the management of hyperpigmentation. Methods: Several spanlastics formulations were successfully fabricated and characterized in terms of morphology, vesicle size, zeta potential, and release. Results: The optimized TQ-loaded spanlastic formulation showed an average size of 223.40 ± 3.50 nm, and 133.00 ± 2.80 nm for AA-loaded spanlastic formulation. The optimized spanlastics formulation showed the highest entrapment efficiency (EE%) of 97.18 ± 2.02% and 93.08 ± 1.95%, for TQ and AA, respectively. Additionally, the edge activator concentration had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on EE%; it was found that by increasing the amount of EA, the EE% increases. Following that, the optimal spanlastics fomulation loaded with TQ and AA were incorporated into gel and explored for appearance, pH, spreadability, stability, rheology, in vitro release, ex vivo permeation study, and MTT cytotoxicity. The formulated spanlastics gel (R-1) has a pH of 5.53. Additionally, R-1 gel was significantly (p < 0.05) more spreadable than control gel, and exhibited a shear thinning behavior. Most importantly, ex vivo skin deposition studies confirmed superior skin deposition of TQ and AA from spanlastic gels. Additionally, results indicated that tyrosinase inhibition was primarily due to TQ. When comparing TQ alone with the TQ-AA combination, inhibition ranged from 18.35 to 42.73% and 24.28 to 42.53%, respectively. Both TQ spanlastics and the TQ-AA combination showed a concentration-dependent inhibition of tyrosinase. Conclusions: Spanlastic gel might represent a promising carrier for the dermal delivery of TQ and AA for the management of hyperpigmentation conditions.

Unveiling Spanlastics as a Novel Carrier for Drug Delivery: A Review

Innovative colloidal preparations that can alter the pharmacological properties of drugs have been made possible by the advancement of nanotechnology. Recent advances in the sciences of the nanoscale have led to the creation of new methods for treating illnesses. Developments in nanotechnology may lessen the side effects of medicine by using effective and regulated drug delivery methods. A promising drug delivery vehicle is spanlastics, an elastic nanovesicle that can transport a variety of drug compounds. Spanlastics have expanded the growing interest in many types of administrative pathways. Using this special type of vesicular carriers, medications intended for topical, nasal, ocular, and trans-ungual treatments are delivered to specific areas. Their elastic and malleable structure allows them to fit into skin pores, making them ideal for transdermal distribution. Spanlastic is composed of non-ionic surfactants or combinations of surfactants. Numerous studies have demonstrated how spanlastics significantly improve, drug bioavailability, therapeutic effectiveness, and reduce medication toxicity. The several vesicular systems, composition and structure of spanlastics, benefits of spanlastics over alternative drug delivery methods, and the process of drug penetration via skin are all summarized in this paper. Additionally, it provides an overview of the many medications that may be treated using spanlastic vesicles. The primary benefits of these formulations were associated with their surface properties, as a variety of proteins might be linked to the look. For instance, procedure assessment and gold nanoparticles were employed as biomarkers for different biomolecules, which included tumor label detection. Anticipate further advancements in the customization and combining of spanlastic vesicles with appropriate zeta potential to transport therapeutic compounds to specific areas for enhanced disease treatment.

A narrative review on potential applications of spanlastics for nose-to-brain delivery of therapeutically active agents

Spanlastics, which are commonly referred to as elastic niosomes, presents a modified advancement in the area of colloidal system based drug delivery carriers. They are different from niosomes, which are non-ionic surfactant vesicles in having an edge activator. Initially, they were described as ocular drug delivery systems in 2011 by Kakkar and Kaur. Spanlastics have discovered a wide range of applications via different routes of administration. The purpose of this article is to provide information about spanlastics, a newly developed drug delivery system for the management of diseases pertaining to the Central Nervous System (CNS) via intranasal route. The article begins with the details on spanlastics and their composition, their benefits over traditional niosomes, and the mechanism underlying their enhanced absorption. Their applications through various routes of administration in a variety of diseases for a variety of drugs have been discussed. Furthermore, the article explains the nose to brain delivery channels and the advantages that this route offers over conventional delivery routes. Finally, the article discusses the studies encompassing the drug candidates that have been formulated as intranasal spanlastics for the management of different diseased conditions along with the future prospects of this emerging drug delivery system.

Recent Trends in the Development and Application of Nano-Antioxidants for Skin-Related Disease

Skin is a vital barrier for the human body, protecting against external environmental influences and maintaining internal homeostasis. In addition, an imbalance of oxidative stress and antioxidant mechanisms can lead to skin-related diseases. Thus, for treating skin-related diseases, antioxidant therapy may be an important strategy to alleviate these symptoms. However, traditional drug therapies have limitations in treating these conditions, such as lack of lasting effect and insufficient skin permeability. Recently, nano-antioxidants, with their good permeability, sustained-release ability, multifunctionality, and other beneficial characteristics, have showed their advances in the exploration of skin-related diseases from research on safe therapies to clinical practice. Hereby, we review the latest research and advancements in nano-antioxidants for skin-related diseases. We categorize skin-related diseases into four main groups: skin inflammatory diseases, skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays, skin wound healing, and other skin-related conditions. Additionally, we summarize the prospects and potential future directions for nano-antioxidant drugs in treating skin-related diseases.

Bioactive Potential of Chitosan-Oleic Acid Nanoparticles Loaded with Lemon Peel Essential Oil for Topical Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

The rising incidence of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) has been leading to the development of alternative antifungal therapies. This study aimed to develop a topical chitosan-oleic acid nanoparticle (CH-OA-NP) cream loaded with lemon peel essential oil (LPEO) for VVC treatment. The characterization of the optimal nanoparticle formulation (F4: 10 g/L CH, 2:1 OA/LPEO ratio) showed high encapsulation efficiency, stability, and controlled release. Moreover, it was characterized regarding its particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and chemical/morphological profile. LPEO-related compounds (e.g., eriodictyol) were identified through LC-ESI-QqTOF-HRMS in the cream matrix, suggesting the preservation of LPEO potential bioactivities after formulation. In silico docking of 12 LPEO metabolites revealed that compounds such as citronellic acid exerted inhibitory effects against several inflammation-associated enzymes (e.g., 14-α-Demethylase). In vitro antimicrobial tests demonstrated remarkable activity against Candida albicans, Gram-negative (e.g., Escherichia coli), and Gram-positive (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. In vivo studies in a rat model of VVC revealed significant antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects of the LPEO-CH-OA-NP cream (5% and 10%), leading to reduced MDA, MPO, and IL-1β levels and increased GSH activity. This novel formulation potentially offers a promising alternative therapy for VVC, addressing the current antifungal therapies' limitations, counteracting drug resistance.

Unveiling New Horizons: Advancing Technologies in Cosmeceuticals for Anti-Aging Solutions

In the last years, the landscape of anti-aging cosmetics has been marked by significant advances in cosmeceutical delivery systems. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of these technological innovations, with a focus on anti-aging effects, from 2018 to 2023. The methodology included a thorough search on PubMed and through gray literature, applying rigorous exclusion criteria. The descriptors were selected based on the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). A total of 265 articles were found. Exclusion criteria were applied, and 90 of them were selected for full reading. After reading the full 90 articles, 52 were excluded, leaving 38 articles for final evaluation composing this review. The key findings highlighted a clear prevalence of studies exploring nanotechnology, including nanoparticles, niosomes, and liposomes. Most of the formulations analyzed in this review emphasize antioxidant activities, which play a crucial role in preventing premature aging caused by free radicals. The reviewed studies revealed specific activities, such as the reduction in melanin synthesis, the inhibition of enzymes involved in the skin aging process, and the prevention of morphological changes typical of aging.

Rutin loaded bilosomes for enhancing the oral activity and nephroprotective effects of rutin in potassium dichromate induced acute nephrotoxicity in rats

Rutin, a flavone glycoside, has shown to have a significant beneficial kidney protection effect in drug-induced nephropathy. However, its poor solubility and low oral bioavailability have limited its pharmacological applications. This study aimed at formulating rutin-loaded bilosomes to enhance the renal protective effect of rutin for oral application. Rutin-loaded bilosomes were developed using thin-film hydration technique. The prepared formulations were characterized by entrapment efficiency percentage (EE%), vesicular size (VS) and zeta potential (ZP) measurement. The developed formula exhibited moderate EE%, ranging from 20.02 ± 2.85 to 48.57 ± 3.57%, suitable VS results that ranged from 502.1 ± 36 to 665.1 ± 45 nm and high ZP values (≤ -41.4 ± 7.27 mV). Transmission electron microscopy revealed the spherical shape of the developed bilosomes. The in-vitro release study revealed prolonged release of rutin from bilosomes, relative to free drug. F2, prepared using the molar ratio span 60: cholesterol: sodium cholate 1:1:0.5, was selected for further investigations as it showed the highest EE%, smallest VS, optimum ZP, and persistent release profile. In-vivo studies were performed on drug-induced nephropathy in rats. Acute renal failure was induced using a single dose of potassium dichromate (PDC; 15 mg/kg; i.p). The selected formulation, F2, alleviated kidney dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation via decreasing MDA, TNF-α and TGF-β and increasing GSH. In addition, F2 promoted Akt/PI3K activation against PDC-induced acute renal failure. Histopathology results came in accordance with in-vivo results. Thus, bilosomes could be considered a potential delivery system for enhancing the oral delivery and kidney protection activity of rutin.

Physicochemical Stimuli-Mediated Precipitation Approach for the Modulation of Rifampicin's Dissolution and Oral Bioavailability

The intricate process of protein binding orchestrates crucial drug interactions within the bloodstream, facilitating the formation of soluble complexes. This research endeavours to improve the dissolution and oral bioavailability of Rifampicin (RMP) by strategically manipulating drug-protein binding dynamics and the hydrophobic characteristics of human serum albumin (HSA). Various precipitation techniques leveraging methanol, ammonium sulfate, and heat treatment were meticulously employed to tailor the properties of colloidal albumin (HSA NPs). The resultant complexes underwent comprehensive characterization encompassing evaluations of hydrophobicity, size distribution, surface charge, and structural analyses through FTIR, TG-DSC, XRD, and morphological examinations. The findings revealed a significant binding affinity of 78.07 ± 6.6% with native albumin, aligning with prior research. Notably, the complex RMP-HSA NPs-M13, synthesized via the methanolic precipitation method, exhibited the most substantial complexation, achieving a remarkable 3.5-fold increase, followed by the ammonium sulfate (twofold) and heat treatment (1.07-fold) methods in comparison to native albumin binding. The gastric simulated media exhibited accelerated drug release kinetics, with maximal dissolution achieved within two hours, contrasting with the prolonged release observed under intestinal pH conditions. These findings translated into significant improvements in drug permeation, as evidenced by pharmacokinetic profiles demonstrating elevated Cmax, AUC, t1/2, and MRT values for RMP-HSA NPs-M13 compared to free RMP. In summary, this innovative approach underscores the potential of precipitation methods in engineering stable colloidal carrier systems tailored to enhance the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, offering a pragmatic and scalable alternative to conventional surfactants, polymers, or high-energy methods for complex formation and production.

Spanlastic-laden nanogel as a plausible platform for dermal delivery of bimatoprost with superior cutaneous deposition and hair regrowth efficiency in androgenic alopecia

Bimatoprost (BIM) is a prostaglandin F2α analogs originally approved for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Recent studies have highlighted its potential to boost hair growth. The objective of this investigation is to challenge the potential of spanlastics (SLs) as a surfactant-based vesicular system for promoting the cutaneous delivery of BIM for the management of alopecia. BIM-loaded spanlastics (BIM-SLs), composed of Span as the main vesicle component and Tween as the edge activator, were fabricated by ethanol injection method. The formulated BIM-SLs were optimized by 23 full factorial design. The optimized formula (F1) was characterized for entrapment efficiency, surface charge, vesicle size, and drug release after 12 h (Q12h). The optimized formula (F1) exhibited high drug entrapment efficiency (83.1 ± 2.1%), appropriate zeta potential (-19.9 ± 2.1 mV), Q12h of 71.3 ± 5.3%, and a vesicle size of 364.2 ± 15.8 nm, which favored their cutaneous accumulation. In addition, ex-vivo skin deposition studies revealed that entrapping BIM within spanlastic-based nanogel (BIM-SLG) augmented the dermal deposition of BIM, compared to naïve BIM gel. Furthermore, in vivo studies verified the efficacy of spanlastic vesicles to boost the cutaneous accumulation of BIM compared to naive BIM gel; the AUC0-12h of BIM-SLG was 888.05 ± 72.31 μg/mL.h, which was twice as high as that of naïve BIM gel (AUC0-12h 382.86 ± 41.12 μg/mL.h). Intriguingly, BIM-SLG outperforms both naïve BIM gel and commercial minoxidil formulations in stimulating hair regrowth in an androgenetic alopecia mouse model. Collectively, spanlastic vesicles might be a potential platform for promoting the dermal delivery of BIM in managing alopecia.

Overview of Spanlastics: A Groundbreaking Elastic Medication Delivery Device with Versatile Prospects for Administration via Various Routes

When compared to the challenges associated with traditional dosage forms, medication delivery systems based on nanotechnology have been a huge boon. One such candidate for medication delivery is spanlastics, an elastic nanovesicle that can transport a diverse array of medicinal compounds. The use of spanlastics has been associated with an increase in interest in alternative administration methods. The non-ionic surfactant or surfactant blend is the main component of spanlastics. The purpose of this review was primarily to examine the potential of spanlastics as a delivery system for a variety of medication classes administered via diverse routes. Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Pubmed were utilized to search the academic literature for this review. Several studies have demonstrated that spanlastics greatly improve therapeutic effectiveness, increase medication absorption, and decrease drug toxicity. This paper provides a summary of the composition and structure of spanlastics along with their utility in the delivery of various therapeutic agents by adopting different routes. Additionally, it provides an overview of the numerous disorders that may be treated using drugs that are contained in spanlastic vesicles.

Novel Arena of Nanocosmetics: Applications and their Remarkable Contribution in the Management of Dermal Disorders, Topical Delivery, Future Trends and Challenges

Nanocosmetics have attracted a considerable audience towards natural care due to their low cost, target-specific delivery, and reduced toxicity compared to chemical-based cosmetics. Nanofomulations, including nanoemulsions, nanotubes, and polymeric carriers, have become next-generation products explored for the multifaced applications of nanotechnology in skin care. The rise in the cosmetic industry demands innovative and personalized products designed using nanocarriers for better targeting and improving patient compliance. Furthermore, nanocosmetics increase the efficiency of skin permeation active ingredient entrapment, providing better UV protection. Moreover, it offers controlled drug release, targeting active sites and enhancing physical stability. Further, overcoming the drawback of penetration problems makes them sustainable formulations for precision medicine. Skincare nourishment with nanocosmetics using Indian spices helps to maintain, beautify, and rejuvenate human skin. Nanophytopharmaceuticals extracted from plants, including alkaloids, flavonoids, antioxidants, and volatile oils, are essential phyto-products for skin care. Nano herbals and nanocosmetics are a growing market and gift of nature that nourishes and cures skin ailments like acne, pemphigus, anti-aging, albinism, psoriasis, and fungal infections. The emerging concern is highlighted in the investigation of nanoformulation toxicity and safety concerns in skin care. Further, it helps to manifest research, development, and innovation in expanding the scope of herbal industries.

Development and Evaluation of Dutasteride Nanoemulgel for the Topical Delivery against Androgenic Alopecia

BACKGROUND

Dutasteride is approximately three times more potent than finasteride in treating alopecia. For reducing systemic exposure to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), researchers have shown special interest in developing topical formulations for treating androgenic alopecia. Dutasteride emulsification may lead to good skin penetration and improved availability in different lipophilic skin environments.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to encapsulate the drug into the lipidic carrier system for better local availability in the scalp skin, develop and evaluate nanoemulgel of dutasteride to ensure efficient topical administration, and perform the in-vivo activity of the developed gel for improved efficacy against alopecia.

METHODS

Dutasteride-loaded nanoemulsion was prepared by a high-speed homogenizer, followed by thickening of the dispersion using Carbopol 934. Skin permeation and accumulation were investigated in the excised skin of male Swiss albino mice. The nanoemulgel was characterized based on pH, stress stability, viscosity, and hardness.

RESULTS

The optimized dutasteride-loaded nanoemulsion had a size of 252.33 ± 8.59 nm, PDI of 0.205 ± 0.60, and drug content of 98.65 ± 1.78%. Stress stability was performed was well observed in nanoemulsion formulation. Nanoemulgel evaluation results were as follows: pH 5-6 was desirable for topical application, hardness was 43 gm, and spreadability was 79 gm with in vitro release of nanoemulgel at 91.98% and permeation study at 13.67%.

CONCLUSION

The in vivo studies demonstrated the growth of newer hair follicles and increased hair diameter and length in dutasteride-loaded nanoemulgel-treated alopecia animals compared to the marketed sample and testosterone-treated group. Provided with the same and long-term storage stability, the developed formulation is supposed to offer a good option for the topical administration of dutasteride in treating androgenic alopecia.

Topical delivery of extracted curcumin as curcumin loaded spanlastics anti-aging gel: Optimization using experimental design and ex-vivo evaluation

Objective

This study aimed to extract and separate the organic coloring agent known as Curcumin from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, and then to create Spanlastics that were loaded with curcumin using the ethanol injection technique. The optimized Spanlastic dispersions were then incorporated into a gel preparation for topical anti-aging use. The Spanlastic dispersions were analyzed for particle size, zeta potential, drug loading efficiency, and in vitro release profile. Furthermore, the rheological properties of the gel preparation were assessed, and a skin penetration study was conducted using confocal microscopy.

Methods

Twelve different Curcumin-loaded Spanlastic dispersions using the ethanol injection method with Span® 60 as a surfactant and Tween® 80 as an edge activator in varying ratios. The dispersions were then subjected to various tests, such as particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement, drug entrapment efficiency assessment, and in vitro release profiling. The optimized formula was selected using Design-Expert® software version 13, then used to create a gel preparation, which utilized 2% HPMC E50 as a gelling polymer. The gel was evaluated for its rheological properties and analyzed using confocal microscopy. Additionally, Raman analysis was performed to ensure that the polymers used in the gel were compatible with the drug substance.

Results

F5 formula, (that contains 10 mg Curcumin, and mixture 5 of span-tween mixtures that consist of 120 mg Span® 60 with 80 mg Tween® 80) was selected as the optimized formula with a desirability produced by Design Expert® software equal to 0.761, based on its particle size (212.8 ± 4.76), zeta potential (-29.4 ± 2.11), drug loading efficiency (99.788 ± 1.34), and in vitro release profile evaluations at Q 6hr equal to almost 100 %. Statistical significance (P < 0.05) was obtained using one-way ANOVA. Then F5 was used to formulate HPMC E50 gel-based preparations. The gel formula that was created and analyzed using Raman spectroscopy demonstrated no signs of incompatibility between the Curcumin and the polymers that were utilized.The confocal spectroscopy found that the anti-aging gel preparation showed promising results in terms of skin penetration. Also, images revealed that the gel could penetrate the layers of the skin (reached a depth of about 112.5 μm), where it could potentially target and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The gel also appeared to be well-tolerated by the skin, with no signs of irritation or inflammation observed in the images.

Conclusion

The obtained results successfully confirmed the potential of the promising (F5) formula to produce sustained release action and its ability to be incorporated into 2% HPMC E50 anti-aging gel. The confocal microscopy study suggested that the anti-aging gel had the potential to be an effective and safe topical treatment for aging skin.

Spanlastics: a novel elastic drug delivery system with potential applications via multifarious routes of administration

Drug delivery systems (DDS) based on nanocarriers are designed to transport therapeutic agents to specific areas of the body where they are required to exhibit pharmacodynamic effect. These agents rely on an appropriate carrier to protect them from rapid degradation or clearance and enhance their concentration in target tissues. Spanlastics, an elastic, deformable surfactant-based nanovesicles have the potential to be used as a drug delivery vehicle for wide array of drug molecules. Spanlastics are formed by the self-association of non-ionic surfactants and edge activators in an aqueous phase and have gained attention as promising drug carriers due to their biodegradable, biocompatible, and non-immunogenic structure. In recent years, numerous scientific journals have published research articles exploring the potential of spanlastics to serve as a DDS for various types of drugs as they offer targeted delivery and regulated release of the drugs. Following brief introduction to spanlastics, their structure and methods of preparation, this review focuses on the delivery of various drugs using spanlastics as a carrier via various routes viz. topical, transdermal, ototopical, ocular, oral and nasal. Work carried out by various researchers by employing spanlastics as a carrier for enhancing therapeutic activity of different moieties has been discussed in detail.

Development and Evaluation of an Innovative Approach Using Niosomes Based Polymeric Microneedles to Deliver Dual Antioxidant Drugs

Ascorbic acid (AA) and caffeine (CAFF) work to protect cells from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and slow down the photoaging process of the skin. However, cosmetic application of AA and CAFF is limited due to poor penetration across the skin and rapid oxidation of AA. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the dermal delivery of dual antioxidants utilizing microneedles (MNs) loaded with AA and CAFF niosomes. The niosomal nanovesicles were prepared using the thin film method and had particle sizes ranging from 130.6-411.2 nm and a negative Zeta potential of around -35 mV. The niosomal formulation was then combined with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) to create an aqueous polymer solution. The best skin deposition of AA and CAFF was achieved with the formulation containing 5% PEG 400 (M3) and PVP. Furthermore, the role of AA and CAFF as antioxidants in preventing cancer formation has been well-established. Here we validated the antioxidant properties of ascorbic acid (AA) and caffeine (CAFF) in a novel niosomal formulation referred to as M3 by testing its ability to prevent H₂O₂-indued cell damage and apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Results showed that M3 was able to shield MCF-7 cells from H₂O₂ induced damage at concentrations below 2.1 µg/mL for AA and 1.05 µg/mL for CAFF, and also exhibited anticancer effects at higher concentrations of 210 µg/mL for AA and 105 µg/mL. The formulations were stable for two months at room temperature in terms of moisture and drug content. The use of MNs and niosomal carriers could be a promising approach for dermal delivery of hydrophilic drugs like AA and CAFF.

Solid-in-oil nanodispersion as a novel topical transdermal delivery to enhance stability and skin permeation and retention of hydrophilic drugs l-ascorbic acid

l-ascorbic acid （Vitamin C, VC） is the most abundant antioxidant in human skin. But its poor penetration into the skin and unstability limit the application. The aim of the study was to promote the topical skin permeation and retention of VC, increase the stability as well as effectiveness by a novel solid in oil nanodispersion. In the nanodispersions system, nano-sized particles of hydrophilic molecules are dispersed in an oil vehicle with the assistance of hydrophobic surfactants. The optimized formula composed of O170 and S1570 (12.5:1, w/w) showed high EE% of 98% and good stability. FTIR analysis confirmed that there may be hydrogen bond between VC and surfactants. The results of DSC, and XRD revealed that the drug was successfully encapsulated in the surfactants, which maintained the stability of drug. By analyzing and fitting the release data in vitro, the drug release mechanism of SONDs was predicted as a multi-dynamic model. Skin permeation of VC was improved 3.43-fold for SONDs compared with VC aqueous solution, highlighting that the lipophilicity and nano size of the carrier more easily penetrated into the skin. Finally, the photoaging study revealed that topical application of VC-SONDs provided the highest skin protection compared UV and VC aqueous solution treated group which was evident by the normal thick epidermal morphology, no obvious melanocytes and the densely arranged dermal elastic fibers. These results demonstrated that the solid-in-oil nanodispersions may be a potential transdermal delivery system for hydrophilic bioactive ingredients.

Optimization of folic acid Span 60-organogel to enhance its in vitro and in vivo photoprotection: a comparative study

Aim: The acute effects of UV sunlight exposure were inflammation, erythema, and swelling. The present work aims to formulate a novel organogel preparation that can achieve efficient topical folic acid (FA) delivery to cure inflammation from acute exposure to UV sunlight. Methods: The organogels were prepared by direct melting and stirring on a magnetic stirrer. Photostability and in vivo photoprotection were investigated. Results: Optimized organogel showed more sustained release, more photostability, more effective antioxidant activity, higher in vitro sun protection factor, and greater extent of skin photoprotection from natural sunlight. Conclusion: The present results suggest optimized FA organogel as a promising formulation for effective delivery of FA to the skin maximizing it's in vitro and in vivo performance.

Design of Novel Tricaprylin-Incorporated Multi-Layered Liposomal System for Skin Delivery of Ascorbic Acid with Improved Chemical Stability

L-ascorbic acid (Vit C) possesses a variety of dermatological functions in maintaining skin health and anti-aging properties. However, its topical application is challenging owing to its liability to light, oxygen, or heat. Therefore, in this study, a novel liposomal system, including a lipophilic neutral oil named a lipo-oil-some (LOS), was designed to improve the chemical stability and aid the skin absorption of Vit C. The vesicular systems were prepared using the ethanol injection method, employing phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, dipalmitoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphoglycerol, and tricaprylin as neutral oil. The optimized LOS was characterized as follows: shape, multi-layered sphere; size, 981 nm; zeta potential, -58 mV; and Vit C encapsulation efficiency, 35%. The encapsulation of the labile compound into the novel system markedly enhanced photostability, providing over 10% higher Vit C remaining compared to Vit C solution or Vit C-loaded conventional liposome under a light intensity of 20,000 lx. On the other hand, the ex vivo skin permeation and accumulation of Vit C with the LOS system were comparable to those of smaller conventional liposomes (198 nm) in a Franz diffusion cell model mounted with porcine skin. Based on these findings, we concluded that the novel liposomal system could be utilized for skin delivery of Vit C with enhanced chemical stability.

Improvement of ascorbic acid delivery into human skin via hyaluronic acid-coated niosomes

Hyaluronic acid (HA) as a covering agent was incorporated into the ascorbic acid (AA)-niosomes to improve the performance of AA delivery systems into the skin. The preparation method: Thin film hydration. Characterisation tests: Field emission scanning electron microscopy, fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV-Visible, zeta potential, Franz diffusion cell, and flowcytometry. The niosomes with 10% w/w HA possessed the largest mean particle diameter of 341.0 ± 48.09 nm with PDI value of 0.29 ± 0.05, and the lowest zeta potential of -38.70 ± 0.27 mv. The drug encapsulation efficiency of this sample was 56.55 ± 0.99%, and in-vitro drug release test showed AA released in two slow and fast phases. Moreover, the highest amount of drug penetration and accumulation was related to this sample, recorded 116.55 ± 7.54 and 134.8 ± 10.04 µg/cm², respectively. Niosomes coated with 10% w/w HA showed the greatest potential for improving the antioxidant activity of AA penetration into the skin.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) as a Cosmeceutical to Increase Dermal Collagen for Skin Antiaging Purposes: Emerging Combination Therapies

Ascorbic acid (AA) is an essential nutrient and has great potential as a cosmeceutical that protects the health and beauty of the skin. AA is expected to attenuate photoaging and the natural aging of the skin by reducing oxidative stress caused by external and internal factors and by promoting collagen gene expression and maturation. In this review, the biochemical basis of AA associated with collagen metabolism and clinical evidence of AA in increasing dermal collagen and inhibiting skin aging were discussed. In addition, we reviewed emerging strategies that have been developed to overcome the shortcomings of AA as a cosmeceutical and achieve maximum efficacy. Because extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen, have unique amino acid compositions, their production in cells is influenced by the availability of specific amino acids. For example, glycine residues occupy 1/3 of amino acid residues in collagen protein, and the supply of glycine can be a limiting factor for collagen synthesis. Experiments showed that glycinamide was the most effective among the various amino acids and amidated amino acids in stimulating collagen production in human dermal fibroblasts. Thus, it is possible to synergistically improve collagen synthesis by combining AA analogs and amino acid analogs that act at different stages of the collagen production process. This combination therapy would be useful for skin antiaging that requires enhanced collagen production.

Combinatorial Therapy of Letrozole- and Quercetin-Loaded Spanlastics for Enhanced Cytotoxicity against MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells

Breast cancer is the most widespread cancer in women with rising incidence, prevalence, and mortality in developed regions. Most breast cancers (80%) are estrogen receptor-positive, indicating that disease progression could be controlled by estrogen inhibition in the breast tissue. However, drug resistance limits the benefits of this approach. Combinatorial treatment could overcome the resistance and improve the outcome of breast cancer treatment. In the current study, we prepared letrozole-(LTZSPs) and quercetin-loaded spanlastics (QuSPs) using different edge activators-Tween 80, Brij 35, and Cremophor RH40-with different concentrations. The spanlastics were evaluated for their average particles size, surface charge, and percent encapsulation efficiency. The optimized formulations were further examined using transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, in vitro drug release and ex vivo skin permeation studies. The prepared spherical LTZSPs and QuSPs had average particle sizes ranged between 129-310 nm and 240-560 nm, respectively, with negative surface charge and high LTZ and Qu encapsulation (94.3-97.2% and 97.9-99.6%, respectively). The in vitro release study of LTZ and Qu from the selected formulations showed a sustained drug release for 24 h with reasonable flux and permeation through the rat skin. Further, we evaluated the in vitro cytotoxicity, cell cycle analysis, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) of the combination therapy of letrozole and quercetin either in soluble form or loaded in spanlastics against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The LTZSPs and QuSPs combination was superior to the individual treatments and the soluble free drugs in terms of in vitro cytotoxicity, cell cycle analysis, and ROS studies. These results confirm the potential of LTZSPs and QuSPs combination for transdermal delivery of drugs for enhanced breast cancer management.

A Cosmeceutical Topical Water-in-Oil Nanoemulsion of Natural Bioactives: Design of Experiment, in vitro Characterization, and in vivo Skin Performance Against UVB Irradiation-Induced Skin Damages

Introduction

Damage to human skin occurs either chronologically or through repetitive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, where collagen photodegradation leads to the formation of wrinkles and skin imperfections. Consequently, cosmeceutical products containing natural bioactives to restore or regenerate collagen have gained a remarkable attention as an ameliorative remedy.

Methods

This study aimed to develop and optimize collagen-loaded water-in-oil nanoemulsion (W/O NE) through a D-optimal mixture design to achieve an ideal multifunctional nanosystem containing active constituents. Vit E was included as a constituent of the formulation for its antioxidant properties to minimize the destructive impact of UV radiation. The formulated systems were characterized in terms of their globule size, optical clarity, and viscosity. An optimized system was selected and evaluated for its physical stability, in vitro wound healing properties, and in vivo permeation and protection against UV radiation. In addition, the effect of collagen-loaded NE was compared to Vit C-loaded NE and collagen-/Vit C-loaded NEs mixture as Vit C is known to enhance collagen production within the skin.

Results

The optimized NE was formulated with 25% oils (Vit E: safflower oil, 1:3), 54.635% surfactant/cosurfactant (Span 80: Kolliphor EL: Arlasolve, 1:1:1), and 20.365% water. The optimized NE loaded with either collagen or Vit C exhibited a skin-friendly appearance with boosted permeability, and improved cell viability and wound healing properties on fibroblast cell lines. Moreover, the in vivo study and histopathological investigations confirmed the efficacy of the developed system to protect the skin against UV damage. The results revealed that the effect of collagen-/Vit C-loaded NEs mixture was more pronounced, as both drugs reduced the skin damage to an extent that it was free from any detectable alterations.

Conclusion

NE formulated using Vit E and containing collagen and/or Vit C could be a promising ameliorative remedy for skin protection against UVB irradiation.

Merging Experimental Design and Nanotechnology for the Development of Optimized Simvastatin Spanlastics: A Promising Combined Strategy for Augmenting the Suppression of Various Human Cancer Cells

Simvastatin (SMV) is an antihyperlipidemic agent that has been investigated as a possible anti-cancer agent. An obstacle to malignant tumor therapy using drugs is the delivery of adequate levels to the cancer cells while minimizing side effects following their systemic administration. To circumvent this challenge, the researchers directed towards the field of nanotechnology to benefit from the nano-size of the formulation in passively targeting the tumor cells. Thus, our study aimed at investigating the potential of a combined mixture-process variable design for optimization of SMV spanlastics (SMV-SPNs) with minimized particle size and maximized zeta potential to enhance the anticancer activity of the drug. The study investigated the effects of Span® 20 and Tween® 80 as mixture components and sonication time as a process variable on particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential as responses. SPNs were prepared using an ethanol injection method. Combining the predicted optimized variables' levels is supposed to achieve the set goals with a desirability of 0.821. The optimized spanlastics exhibited a measured globule size of 128.50 nm, PDI of 0.329, and ZP of -29.11 mV. The percentage relative error between predicted responses and the observed ones were less than 5% for the three responses, indicating the optimization technique credibility. A significant improvement in the cytotoxicity of the optimized formulation against three different cancerous cell lines was observed in comparison with SMV. The inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of MCF-7, HCT-116, and HEPG2 were found to be 0.89, 0.39, and 0.06 μM at 24 h incubation. The enhanced cytotoxicity could be assigned to the possible improved permeation and preferential build-up within the cancerous cells by virtue of the minimized size. These findings imply that SMV-SPNs could be an ideal strategy to combat cancer.

Formulation and Evaluation of Transdermal Gel Containing Tacrolimus-Loaded Spanlastics: In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Studies

Our goal was to prepare Span 60-based elastic nanovesicles (spanlastics (SPLs)) of tacrolimus (TCR) using the adapted ethanol injection method, characterize them, and evaluate their ability to improve the transdermal permeation of the active substance. The impact of two different concentrations of penetration enhancers, namely, propylene glycol and oleic acid, on the entrapment efficiency, vesicle size, and zeta potential was assessed. Moreover, in vitro release through a semipermeable membrane and ex vivo penetration through hairless rat skin were performed. Morphological examination and pharmacokinetics were performed for one selected formulation (F3OA1). TCR-loaded SPLs were effectively formulated with two different concentrations of permeation enhancers, and the effect of these enhancers on their physicochemical properties differed in accordance with the concentration and kind of enhancer used. The results of in vitro release displayed a considerable (p < 0.05) enhancement compared to the suspension of the pure drug, and there was a correlation between the in vitro and ex vivo results. The selected TCR-loaded nanovesicles incorporated into a gel base showed appreciable advantages over the oral drug suspension and the TCR-loaded gel. Additionally, the pharmacokinetic parameters were significantly (p < 0.05) improved based on our findings. Moreover, the AUC0−7 ng·h/mL form F3 OA1 was 3.36-fold higher than that after the administration of the TCR oral suspension.

Rapid determination of L-ascorbic acid content in vitamin C serums by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop and validate a rapid, simple, accurate, and precise analytical method for the quantification of L-AA in vitamin C serums. Moreover, the developed method was further applied to determine L-AA in eight different brands of vitamin C serums. A complementary study was also carried out to evaluate the stability of L-AA in the vitamin C serum samples after 15, 30, 45, and 60 days of storage at ambient temperature (15 ºC to 35 ºC).

METHODS

Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was applied.

RESULTS

Quantitative analyses were performed with a total chromatographic run time of 1.5 min by matrix-matched calibration, and the analytical curve was linear over the range of 1-1700 μg L^-1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9998. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were 0.3 and 1.0 μg L^-1 , respectively. Intra- and inter-assay precisions, expressed in terms of relative standard deviation (RSD), ranged from 0.3% and 2.2%, respectively, and recoveries in two concentration levels (1 and 5 µg L^-1 ) were 103.9% and 101.2%, respectively. The proposed analytical method was successfully applied to determine de L-AA content of eight commercial vitamin C serum samples. The stability of the target analyte in samples stored at ambient temperature (15 ºC to 35 ºC) was evaluated throughout 60 days with a 15-day interval between analyses. At 0 days, L-AA content in samples ranged from 1.05 - 169.91 mg L^-1 , decreasing over time.

CONCLUSION

The proposed method could be powerful in routine analyses to ensure the quality of L-AA vitamin C serums since it proved a simple, reliable, fast, precise, accurate, and sensitive analytical method.

Facial Treatment with 3-O-Cetyl Ascorbic Acid for Improvement of Skin Texture: Uptake, Effectiveness, and In Vitro Carcinogenicity Assessment

Ascorbic acid (AA) is a water-soluble vitamin that is found at high concentrations in normal skin. The important and well-known benefits of using AA in skin health include the stimulation of collagen synthesis and the assistance of protection against photo-oxidative damages. To maintain stability and improve drug delivery to the active site, a variety of AA derivatives have been chemically synthesized. Among these compounds, we focus here on a lipophilic derivative, 3-O-cetyl ascorbic acid (3-CetylAA), which remains poorly characterized for cosmetic applications. Uptake analysis in three healthy human volunteers’ skin was conducted using a serial tape-stripping technique detecting 3-CetylAA (on average, 128 ± 27 pmol per µg) in the stratum corneum after a 5-h topical treatment when treated with 25 mM 3-CetylAA-containing cream for 13 days twice daily and continuously. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) imaging of vertical cryosections of pig skin revealed the presence of 3-CetylAA in the epidermal layer after topical treatment with 3-CetylAA-containing cream. In sun-exposed human skin, 3-CetylAA improved the texture after treatment with 25 mM 3-CetylAA-containing cream for 4 weeks or more when used twice daily or continuously. An in vitro transformation assay using BALB/c 3T3 A31-1-1 cells demonstrated that 10 µM 3-CetylAA, which is the same concentration exhibited in vitro biological activities in another lipophilic AA derivative, 2-O-octadecyl ascorbic acid, was non-carcinogenic and did not potentiate the UVC-induced transformation frequency when applied for 3 days after UVC irradiation. These results demonstrate that 3-CetylAA is a promising candidate as a lipophilic derivative of AA for cosmetic purposes.