Parametric investigation of static and dynamic cell culture conditions and their impact on hCMEC/D3 barrier properties

In brain research, the hCMEC/D3 cell line is widely used for the establishment of a human in vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB) model. However, its barrier integrity seems to be insufficient for drug permeability studies, represented by rather low transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and high permeability of small molecules. Therefore, this study covers a parametric investigation of static and dynamic cell culture conditions to improve barrier functionality of hCMEC/D3. The effect of basal media was investigated by analyzing changes in proliferation rate, barrier integrity and gene expression of cellular junction proteins. The cells were able to grow in different cell culture media, including serum-free media. However, none of these media enhanced strongly the growth rate or barrier integrity compared to the microvascular endothelial cell growth medium-2 (EGM™-2 MV). Furthermore, hCMEC/D3 cells did not respond positively regarding TEER to any tested parameter neither supplements, coating materials nor co-cultures with the human immortalized astrocyte cell line SVGmm. Furthermore, the impact of dynamic conditions was examined by using the Dynamic Micro Tissue Engineering System (DynaMiTES). Cultivation conditions were successfully adapted to the DynaMiTES design and no negative effect was detected by analyzing cell viability and cell count, albeit TEER remained also unchanged. Consequently, the hCMEC/D3 model has considerable limitations and further improvements or alternative cell lines are required.

Stabilization of hyperforin dicyclohexylammonium salt with dissolved albumin and albumin nanoparticles for studying hyperforin effects on 2D cultivation of keratinocytes in vitro

Due to the limited chemical stability of the natural hyperforin molecule, a more stable form of hyperforin, i.e., the hyperforin dicyclohexylammonium salt (HYP-DCHA) has been used for ex vivo and in vitro experiments in recent years, but its actual stability under typical cell culture conditions has never been studied before. In this contribution the stability of HYP-DCHA was examined under typical cell culture conditions. Different cell culture media with and without fetal calf serum (FCS) supplementation were studied with regard to further stabilization of HYP-DCHA determined with HPLC analysis. Furthermore, albumin nanoparticles were examined as a stabilizing carrier system for HYP-DCHA. In this context, the interaction between HYP-DCHA and albumin nanoparticles (ANP) was examined with regard to size and loading with HYP . The effects of HYP-DCHA either supplied in cell culture medium or loaded on ANP on viability and cytotoxicity were studied in vitro on HaCaT monolayers (human keratinocyte cell line). HYP-DCHA supplied in FCS-containing medium was recovered completely after 24h of incubation. However, a lack of FCS caused a total loss of HYP-DCHA after less than 24h incubation time. Supplying HYP-DCHA loaded on ANP in an FCS-free medium resulted in a recovery of about 60% after 24h incubation. HYP-DCHA supplied in medium along with FCS showed a slow dose-dependent decrease in viability of HaCaT cells without any cytotoxic effects (antiproliferative effect). Treatment with HYP-DCHA with a lack of FCS resulted in a significantly faster decrease in viability which was mainly due to cytotoxicity. The latter was true for HYP-DHCA-loaded ANP where increased cytotoxicity was observed despite the presence of FCS. The results show that the stability of the widely used HYP-DCHA is rather limited under cell culture conditions. Especially a lack of FCS leads to degradation and/or oxidation of HYP-DCHA probably causing an increased cytotoxicity. In contrast, FCS supplementation fairly stabilizes HYP-DCHA under cell culture conditions while albumin nanoparticles may serve the same stabilization purpose despite increasing cytotoxic effects onto the cells themselves.

Anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects of hyperforin in 2D and 3D artificial constructs of human dermal fibroblasts - A new option for hypertrophic scar treatment?

Hyperforin (HYP), one of the main bioactive compounds in extracts of Hypericum perforatum, is a potential drug candidate for the treatment of skin diseases. Since extracts have proven to support wound healing, in the present study effects of HYP on human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) were evaluated in 2D and 3D in vitro dermal constructs. Viability and cytotoxicity assays as well as a live-dead cell staining were performed to test at which concentration HYP reduces viability and/or shows cytotoxicity. Furthermore a differentiation between cytotoxic, anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects was done. For the latter purpose a 2D migration assay was performed. HDF-induced contraction of a 3D artificial dermal (AD) construct was determined at given HYP concentration. Induction of apoptosis was examined by determination of caspase 3/7 activities. HYP reduced viability of HDF down to 70% at concentrations of 5-10µM. This decrease was not due to cytotoxicity but to a reduction in proliferation as shown from both the proliferation assay and the cytotoxicity assay as well as from live-dead cell staining. The 2D migration assay showed that HYP reduced migration activity of HDF cells at a concentration of 10µM. At this concentration HYP also reduced the HDF-induced contraction of collagen gels as 3D AD constructs. Apoptotic effects of HYP were excluded performing a caspase 3/7 activity detecting assay. The results show for the first time that HYP may be rather a potential candidate for treatment of hypertrophic scars than promoting effects which are understood as important in wound healing.

Evaluation of dika wax-soybean oil-based artesunate-loaded lipospheres: in vitro-in vivo correlation studies

OBJECTIVES

To formulate and evaluate artesunate-loaded lipospheres and study the in vitro-in vivo correlations (IV-IVC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lipospheres were formulated by melt homogenisation using structured lipid matrices consisting of (1:3 and 1:6) soybean oil and dika wax and were characterised in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

The small angle X-ray diffraction (SAXD) results of the lipid matrices showed prominent reflection at 2θ = 2.49°, d = 3.55 Å while, wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) showed prominent reflection at 2θ = 20.83°, d = 0.42 Å. Lipospheres had maximum encapsulation efficiency of 80%, showed no significant decrease in pH with time (p < 0.05), and had sustained release properties. The ratio of the area under the curve (AUC) of the lipospheres and the tablets gave bioavailability enhancement factor of 2.108.

CONCLUSION

Artesunate-loaded lipospheres could be used orally or parenterally once daily, for the treatment of malaria.

In vitro and ex vivo toxicological testing of sildenafil-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential cytotoxicity of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) loaded with sildenafil. The SLNs were tested as a new drug delivery system (DDS) for the inhalable treatment of pulmonary hypertension in human lungs. Solubility of sildenafil in SLN lipid matrix (30:70 phospholipid:triglyceride) was determined to 1% sildenafil base and 0.1% sildenafil citrate, respectively. Sildenafil-loaded SLN with particle size of approximately 180 nm and monomodal particle size distribution were successfully manufactured using a novel microchannel homogenization method and were stable up to three months. Sildenafil-loaded SLN were then used in in vitro and ex vivo models representing lung and heart tissue. For in vitro models, human alveolar epithelial cell line (A459) and mouse heart endothelium cell line (MHEC5-T) were used. For ex vivo models, rat precision cut lung slices (PCLS) and rat heart slices (PCHS) were used. All the models were treated with plain SLN and sildenafil-loaded SLN in a concentration range of 0-5000 µg/ml of lipid matrix. The toxicity was evaluated in vitro and ex vivo by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Median lethal dose 50% (LD50) values for A549 cells and PCLS were found to be in the range of 1200-1900 µg/ml while for MHEC5-T cells and precision cut heart slices values were found between 1500 and 2800 µg/ml. PCHS showed slightly higher LD50 values in comparison to PCLS. Considering the toxicological aspects, sildenafil-loaded SLN could have potential in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension via inhalation route.

Skin penetration and stabilization of formulations containing microfine titanium dioxide as physical UV filter

Microfine titanium dioxide (TiO(2)) has become a frequently used physical UV filter in sunscreen formulations. Penetration of microfine TiO(2) into human skin seems to be possible because of the mean particle size of 20 nm. The small particle size results in a high surface activity of the primary particles and causes a formation of agglomerates in the formulation. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vivo and in vitro penetration behaviour of the physical UV filter into human skin. Furthermore, a stable sunscreen formulation with microfine TiO(2) which does not penetrate into the skin should be developed. According to our experiments, microfine TiO(2) penetrates deeper into human skin from an oily dispersion than from an aqueous one. Therefore, an o/w emulsion containing the dispersed micropigment in the aqueous phase was manufactured. Microfine TiO(2) cannot penetrate into human skin from this emulsion, but the storage stability of the formulation is very low at different temperatures. The encapsulation of the micropigment into liposomes does not result in a better stability but it causes a higher penetration depth of the particles into the skin.

Sustained release and permeation of timolol from surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles through bioengineered human cornea

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to formulate and evaluate surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles sustained delivery system of timolol hydrogen maleate, a prototype ocular drug using a human cornea construct.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles containing timolol with and without phospholipid were formulated by melt emulsification with high-pressure homogenization and characterized by particle size, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release. Drug transport studies through cornea bioengineered from human donor cornea cells were carried out using a modified Franz diffusion cell and drug concentration analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Results show that surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles possessed very small particles (42.9 +/- 0.3 nm, 47.2 +/- 0.3 nm, 42.7 +/- 0.7 nm, and 37.7 +/- 0.3 nm, respectively for SM-SLN 1, SM-SLN 2, SM-SLN 3, and SM-SLN 4) with low polydispersity indices, increased encapsulation efficiency (> 44%), and sustained in vitro release compared with unmodified lipid nanoparticles whose particles were greater than 160 nm. Permeation of timolol hydrogen maleate from the surface-modified lipid nanoparticles across the cornea construct was sustained compared with timolol hydrogen maleate solution in distilled water.

CONCLUSIONS

Surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles could provide an efficient way of improving ocular bioavailability of timolol hydrogen maleate.

Solid lipid nanodispersions containing mixed lipid core and a polar heterolipid: Characterization

This paper describes the characterization of solid lipid nanodispersions (SLN) prepared with a 1:1 mixture of theobroma oil and goat fat as the main lipid matrix and Phospholipon 90G (P90G) as a stabilizer heterolipid, using polysorbate 80 as the mobile surfactant, with a view to applying the SLN in drug delivery. The 1:1 lipid mixture and P90G constituting the lipid matrix was first homogeneously prepared by fusion. Thereafter, the SLN were formulated with a gradient of polysorbate 80 and constant lipid matrix concentration by melt-high pressure homogenisation. The SLN were characterized by time-resolved particle size analysis, zeta potential and osmotic pressure measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and isothermal heat conduction microcalorimetry (IMC) which monitors the in situ crystallization were also carried out on the SLN containing P90G and 1.0 % w/w of polysorbate 80. The results obtained in these studies were compared with SLN prepared with theobroma oil with and without phospholipid. Particle size analysis of SLN indicated reduction in size with increase in concentration of mobile surfactant and was in the lower nanometer range after 3 months except SLN prepared without P90G or polysorbate 80. The lipid nanoparticles had negative potentials after 3 months. WAXD and DSC studies revealed low crystalline SLN after 3 months of storage except in WAXD of SLN formulated with 1.0 % w/w polysorbate 80. TEM micrograph of the SLN containing 1.0 % w/w polysorbate 80 revealed discrete particles whose sizes were in consonance with the static light scattering measurement. In situ crystallization studies in IMC revealed delayed crystallization of the SLN with 1.0 % w/w polysorbate 80. Results indicate lipid mixtures produced SLN with lower crystallinity and higher particle sizes compared with SLN prepared with theobroma oil alone with or without P90G, and would lead to higher drug incorporation efficiency when used in formulation of actives. Mixtures of theobroma oil and goat fat would be suitable for the preparation of nanostructured lipid carriers. SLN of theobroma oil containing phospholipid could prove to be a good ocular or parenteral drug delivery system considering the low particle size, particle size stability and in vivo tolerability of the component lipids. SLN prepared with lipid admixture, which had higher increase in d(90%) on storage are suitable for preparation of topical and transdermal products.

Investigation of surface-modified solid lipid nanocontainers formulated with a heterolipid-templated homolipid

There is increasing interest in the search for improved drug delivery systems with greater versatility. Consequently, many drug delivery systems have been studied. In this study, surface-modified lipid nanocontainers were formulated with a homolipid from Capra hircus (goat fat) templated with a heterolipid (Phospholipon 90G) which was also the surface modifier. The solid lipid nanocontainers (SLN) were formulated by hot high pressure homogenisation using increasing concentrations of polysorbate 80 as the mobile surfactant. Prior to SLN preparation, the templated homolipid was formulated by fusion to obtain a homogeneous lipid matrix, which was characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized light microscopy (PLM) and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) to obtain its thermal and crystal characteristics. Isothermal heat conduction microcalorimetry (IMC) and freeze-fracture transmission electron microscopy (FFTEM) studies were carried out on the templated homolipid and SLN containing 1.0% (w/w) of polysorbate 80 to study their in situ crystallization kinetics and morphology, respectively. The formulated SLN were also subjected to time-resolved DSC, WAXD and particle size analyses for one month. The thermal and crystal characteristics were compared with those of the bulk lipid matrix (templated homolipid). Result of the particle size analysis indicated that the particles size remained roughly within the lower nanometer range after one month. FFTEM micrograph of the lipid matrices revealed lamellar sheets for Phospholipon 90G and layered triglyceride structures for the homolipid and Phospholipon 90G-templated homolipid. FFTEM micrograph of SLN revealed anisometric structures. PLM of the templated homolipid did not show, but goat fat (homolipid) alone showed slight growth in crystals with time. WAXD and DSC studies revealed minor increase in crystallinity of the new lipid matrix after one month and DSC also detected templation of homolipid by the heterolipid noted by the disappearance of the lower melting peak of the homolipid. However, for the SLN, WAXD results showed low crystalline particles while DSC only showed a very little endothermic process after one month of storage at 20 degrees C. The implication of this finding is that progression of the SLN to highly ordered particles over time would not occur. This will be favourable for any incorporated drug as drug expulsion, due to increase in crystallinity, will not occur. Result obtained from analysis of the isothermal crystallization exotherms indicated that the templated homolipid and SLN1 containing 1.0% polysorbate 80 possess similar nucleation mechanisms and growth dimensions different from the pure homolipid. The SLN containing 0.5 and 1.0% polysorbate 80 possessed good properties and could prove to be good delivery systems for drugs for parenteral or ocular administration. The result of this study also shows a method of improving natural lipids for use in particulate drug delivery systems.

An alkylpolyglucoside surfactant as a prospective pharmaceutical excipient for topical formulations: The influence of oil polarity on the colloidal structure and hydrocortisone in vitro/in vivo permeation

There is a growing need for research into new skin- and environment-friendly surfactants. This paper focuses on a natural surfactant of an alkylpolyglucoside type, which can form both thermotropic and lyotropic liquid-crystalline phases. The aim of this study was to relate some physicochemical properties (characterised by polarisation and transmission electron microscopy, thermal analysis and rheology) of the three formulations based on cetearyl glucoside and cetearyl alcohol, to the results of in vitro and in vivo bioavailability of hydrocortisone (HC). The three formulations contained oils of different polarity (medium chain triglycerides: MG, isopropyl myristate: IPM and light liquid paraffin: LP), respectively. In vitro permeation was followed through the artificial skin constructs (ASC), while the parameters measured in vivo were erythema index: EI (using instrumental human skin blanching assay), transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum hydration (SCH). The vehicles based on cetearyl glucoside and cetearyl alcohol showed a complex colloidal structure of lamellar liquid-crystalline and lamellar gel-crystalline type, depending on oil polarity. Rheological profile of the vehicle was directly related to the in vitro profile of the HC permeation. In vivo results suggested that the vehicle with MG retarded the HC permeation, whereas less polar IPM and non-polar LP enhanced it. It is suggested that the enhancement is achieved either by a direct interaction with lipid lamellae of the SC or indirectly by improving skin hydration. There were no adverse effects during in vivo study, which indicates a good safety profile of this alkylpolyglucoside surfactant.

In vitro erythemal UV-A protection factors of inorganic sunscreens distributed in aqueous media using carnauba wax–decyl oleate nanoparticles

This paper describes the in vitro photoprotection in the UV-A range, i.e. 320-400 nm obtained by the use of carnauba wax-decyl oleate nanoparticles either as encapsulation systems or as accompanying vehicles for inorganic sunscreens such as barium sulfate, strontium carbonate and titanium dioxide. Lipid-free inorganic sunscreen nanosuspensions, inorganic sunscreen-free wax-oil nanoparticle suspensions and wax-oil nanoparticle suspensions containing inorganic sunscreens dispersed either in their oil phase or their aqueous phase were prepared by high pressure homogenization. The in vitro erythemal UV-A protection factors (EUV-A PFs) of the nanosuspensions were calculated by means of a sun protection analyzer. EUV-A PFs being no higher than 4 were obtained by the encapsulation of barium sulfate and strontium carbonate, meanwhile by the distribution of titanium dioxide in presence of wax-oil nanoparticles, the EUV-A PFs varied between 2 and 19. The increase in the EUV-A PFs of the titanium dioxide obtained by the use of wax-oil nanoparticles demonstrated a better performance of the sun protection properties of this pigment in the UV-A region.

Artificial Sun Protection: Sunscreens and Their Carrier Systems

The formulation of sunscreens products requires information about the properties of the substances responsible for the sun protection, their action mechanisms and the vehicles used for their administration. The improvement of the performance of sunscreen substances by a modification of their chemical, physical and technological properties or by the use of conventional and novel carriers is described in this review. The sun protection achieved by the use of sunscreens incorporated into carriers in terms of the sun protection factor (SPF) and other performance indices is also shown. Current manufacturing methods to incorporate sunscreen substances into vehicles are briefly described. Furthermore, basic information related to the dermatological effects of the UV radiation classified according to the different spectral regions of the UV radiation is presented in this manuscript.

Sun protection enhancement of titanium dioxide crystals by the use of carnauba wax nanoparticles: The synergistic interaction between organic and inorganic sunscreens at nanoscale

Carnauba wax is partially composed of cinnamates. The rational combination of cinnamates and titanium dioxide has shown a synergistic effect to improve the sun protection factor (SPF) of cosmetic preparations. However, the mechanism of this interaction has not been fully understood. In this study, an ethanolic extract of the carnauba wax and an ethanolic solution of a typical cinnamate derivative, ethylcinnamate, were prepared and their UV absorption and SPF either alone or in the presence of titanium dioxide were compared. The titanium dioxide crystals and the cinnamates solutions were also distributed into a matrix composed of saturated fatty acids to emulate the structure of the crystallized carnauba wax. SPF, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray studies of these matrices were performed. Additionally, carnauba wax nanosuspensions containing titanium dioxide either in the lipid phase or in the aqueous phase were prepared to evaluate their SPFs and their physical structure. Strong UV absorption was observed in diluted suspensions of titanium dioxide after the addition of cinnamates. The saturated fatty acid matrices probably favored the adsorption of the cinnamates at the surface of titanium dioxide crystals, which was reflected by an increase in the SPF. No modification of the crystal structure of the fatty acid matrices was observed after the addition of cinnamates or titanium dioxide. The distribution of the titanium dioxide inside the lipid phase of the nanosuspensions was more effective to reach higher SPFs than that at the aqueous phase. The close contact between the carnauba wax and the titanium dioxide crystals after the high-pressure homogenization process was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

A critical study of novel physically structured lipid matrices composed of a homolipid from Capra hircus and theobroma oil

There is increasing interest in drug formulation using lipids. In this study, some physically structured lipid matrices were formulated and characterized for drug delivery applications. Lipid matrices containing a novel homolipid from Capra hircus (goat fat) and theobroma oil, at 25, 50 and 75% (w/w) concentration of the homolipid were formulated by fusion. The lipid matrices were subjected to some characterization procedures such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to ascertain their supramolecular properties, small angle X-ray diffraction (SAXD), wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), polarized light microscopy (PLM) and isothermal heat conduction microcalorimetry (IMC). The internal structures of some selected lipid matrices were also studied by freeze-fracture transmission electron microscopy (FFTEM). DSC results obtained indicated that goat fat has a pre-transition at 15.9 +/- 0.2 degrees C (after 1 week) and melts completely with two detectable melting peaks at 33.0 +/- 0.2 and 49.9 +/- 0.1 degrees C, and total enthalpy of 99.9 +/- 2.5 mJ/mg determined after 6 weeks of preparation. The melting enthalpy of goat fat changed after 3 weeks but remained constant after 6 weeks while the melting enthalpy of the lipid matrix containing 50% (w/w) goat fat changed after 3 and 6 weeks. An increase in lower melting peak was observed in the lipid matrix containing 25% (w/w) goat fat after 6 weeks. WAXD and SAXD of the physically structured lipid matrices showed reflections of the different pure lipids but new interferences were detected in WAXD mostly between 2theta=17.5 degrees and 2theta=27.5 degrees . PLM observation revealed the presence of Maltese crosses for the homolipid at 37 degrees C, which disappeared upon heating at 51.0 degrees C. PLM of the structured lipid matrix containing 25% (w/w) goat fat showed distinct crystal growth after 4 weeks among the admixtures. However, IMC studies did not reveal any change in recrystallization behaviour in this lipid matrix within 24 h. Analysis of the crystallization exotherms indicated that the lipid matrix containing 50% (w/w) goat fat showed unique crystallization kinetics and possessed the lowest Avrami exponent, while goat fat alone showed slight change within the first 45 min of isothermal crystallization. Physically structured lipid matrix containing 75% (w/w) goat fat possessed the lowest growth rate constant.

Further characterization of theobroma oil-beeswax admixtures as lipid matrices for improved drug delivery systems

There is an increasing interest in lipid based drug delivery systems due to factors such as better characterization of lipidic excipients and formulation versatility and the choice of different drug delivery systems. It is important to know the thermal characteristics, crystal habit, texture, and appearance of a new lipid matrix when determining its suitability for use in certain pharmaceutical application. It is line with this that this research was embarked upon to characterize mixtures of beeswax and theobroma oil with a view to applying their admixtures in drug delivery systems such as solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers. Admixtures of theobroma oil and beeswax were prepared to contain 25% w/w, 50% w/w, and 75% w/w of theobroma oil. The admixtures were analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), small angle X-ray diffraction (SAXD), wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), and isothermal heat conduction microcalorimetry (IMC). The melting behavior and microstructures of the lipid admixtures were monitored by polarized light microscopy (PLM). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to study the internal structures of the lipid bases. DSC traces indicated that the higher melting peaks were roughly constant for the different admixtures, but lower melting peaks significantly increased (p < 0.05). The admixture containing 25% w/w of theobroma oil possessed highest crystallinity index of 95.6%. WAXD studies indicated different reflections for the different lipid matrices. However, new interferences were detected for all the lipid matrix admixtures between 2theta = 22.0 degrees and 2theta = 25.0 degrees. The lipid matrices containing 50% w/w and 25% w/w of theobroma oil showed absence of the weak reflection characteristic of pure theobroma oil, while there was disappearance of the strong intensity reflection of beeswax in all the lipid matrix admixtures at all stages of the study. PLM micrographs revealed differences with regard to the thermal and optical behaviors depending on the composition of the matrix. The lipid matrix consisting of 75% w/w of theobroma oil showed a spherulite texture after 4 weeks of isothermal storage. Crystallization exotherms of lipid matrices containing 50% w/w and 25% w/w of theobroma oil showed change in modification after 30 min with the latter having a greater time-dependent crystallization. Generally, low non-integral Avrami exponents and growth rate constants were obtained for all the lipid matrices, with the admixture containing 25% w/w theobroma oil having the lowest Avrami exponent and growth rate constant. Based on the results obtained, admixtures containing 50% w/w and 75% w/w of theobroma oil could be applied in the formulation of solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers as these lipid matrices possessed crystal characteristics that favour such drug delivery systems.

Physical stability, centrifugation tests, and entrapment efficiency studies of carnauba wax–decyl oleate nanoparticles used for the dispersion of inorganic sunscreens in aqueous media

Aqueous nanoscale lipid dispersions consisting of carnauba wax-decyl oleate mixtures acting as carriers or accompanying vehicles for inorganic sunscreens such as barium sulfate, strontium carbonate, and titanium dioxide were prepared by high pressure homogenization. For the manufacture of these nanosuspensions, three pigment concentrations (%wt), namely 2, 4, and 6, and two carnauba wax-decyl oleate ratios, 1:1 and 2:1, were used, being some of these combinations chosen for stability studies. Six-month physical stability tests at 4, 20, and 40 degrees C selecting the mean particle size and the polydispersity index of the nanosuspensions as reference parameters were performed. Centrifugation tests of the nanosuspensions assessed by transmission electron microscopy and by the determination of the content of pigments and carnauba wax in the separated fractions were done. The mean particle sizes and the polydispersity indices of the nanosuspensions were not altered after six-month storages at 20 and at 40 degrees C. However, the storage of those at 4 degrees C considerably increased the particle size and polydispersity of the systems, particularly when wax-oil ratios (2:1) were used for the entrapment of the pigments. Transmission electron micrographs of centrifuged samples denoted the presence of three major fractions showing the different types of particles integrated into the nanosuspensions. Furthermore, it was observed that not all the carnauba wax participated in the entrapment of the pigment. Regarding the amount of pigment being encapsulated or bonded by the wax-oil matrices, entrapment efficiencies higher than 85.52% were reported.

Characterisation of surface-modified solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN): influence of lecithin and nonionic emulsifier

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), an alternative colloidal drug delivery system to polymer nanoparticles, emulsions and liposomes, are generally produced by high pressure melt-emulsification. However, the harsh production process is not applicable for formulations containing shear and temperature sensitive compounds. For that reason, subsequent adsorptive SLN loading might be a promising alternative. The aim of the present study was the development and characterisation of surface-modified SLN for adsorptive protein loading by variation of both the lipid matrix and the emulsifier concentration in the continuous phase. Variations in SLN composition resulted in particle sizes between 674 and 61 nm corresponding to specific surfaces of 4.5 m(2)/g and 48.9 m(2)/g and zeta potentials between -23.4 mV and -0.9 mV. In dependence of SLN surface properties, albumin payload ranged from 2.5 to 15%. Thermoanalysis, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy revealed anisometrical and crystalline particles. In vitro cytotoxicity was low in terms of both haemolysis, which was between 1 and 2%, and neutral red test (NRT) showing a half lethal dose between 1.1 and 4.6%.

Drug release and permeation studies of nanosuspensions based on solidified reverse micellar solutions (SRMS)

Solidified reverse micellar solutions (SRMS), i.e. mixtures of lecithin and triglycerides, offer high solubilisation capacities for different types of drugs in contrast to simple triglyceride systems [Friedrich, I., Müller-Goymann, C.C., 2003. Characterisation of SRMS and production development of SRMS-based nanosuspensions. Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 56, 111-119]. Nanosuspensions based on SRMS were prepared by homogenisation close to the melting point of the SRMS matrix. In a first step the SRMS matrices of 1:1 (w/w) ratios of lecithin and triglycerides were loaded with 17beta-estradiol-hemihydrate (EST), hydrocortisone (HC) or pilocarpine base (PB), respectively, and subsequently ground in liquid nitrogen to minimise drug diffusion later on. The powder was then dispersed in a polysorbate 80 solution using high pressure homogenisation. The drug loading capacities of the nanosuspensions were very high in the case of poorly water-soluble EST (99% of total 0.1%, w/w, EST) and HC (97% of total 0.5%, w/w, HC) but not sufficient with the more hydrophilic PB (37-40% of total 1.0%, w/w, PB). These findings suggest SRMS-based nanosuspensions to be promising aqueous drug carrier systems for poorly soluble drugs like EST and HC. Furthermore, in vitro drug permeation from the different drug-loaded nanosuspensions was performed across human cornea construct (HCC) as an organotypical cell culture model. PB permeation did not differ from the nanosuspension and an aqueous solution whereas the permeation coefficients of HC-loaded nanosuspensions were reduced in comparison to aqueous and oily solutions of HC. However, the permeated amount was higher from the nanosuspensions due to a much lower HC concentration in the solution than that in the nanosuspension (solution 0.02%, w/w, versus nanosuspension 0.5%, w/w). The high drug load of the nanoparticles provides prolonged HC release. Permeated amounts of EST were reduced in comparison to HC and only detectable with an ELISA technique. The EST release from nanosuspensions and different EST-loaded systems revealed a prolonged EST release from the nanoparticulate systems in contrast to a faster release of an oily solution of an equal EST concentration. With regard to an aqueous EST suspension of similar concentration which represents a depot system the release rate from the nanosuspensions revealed the same order of magnitude which points again to a prolonged release potential of the nanosuspensions.

Esteraseaktivität eines organotypischen humanen Kornea-Konstrukts (HCC) als In-vitro-Modell für Permeationsuntersuchungen

Organotypic cornea equivalents are used as in vitro models for permeation studies. Many ophthalmic drugs are applied as ester prodrugs to achieve a higher bioavailability. The esterase activity of three corneal human cell lines (epithelial, stromal, endothelial cells) as well as of excised porcine cornea, human donor cornea and human cornea construct (HCC) was investigated and compared. Esterase activity was determined using p-nitrophenyl acetate and hydrocortisone acetate (HCA) as esterase substrates. Hydrocortisone acetate permeation across porcine cornea, human donor cornea and HCC was studied in vitro using Franz-diffusion cells. Corneal epithelial cells showed the highest esterase activity and only small differences to keratocytes and endothelial cells were detectable. The permeation barrier properties of the different corneal tissues were very similar in the case of HCA permeation whereas HCA metabolism rates were in the ranking order of porcine cornea > HCC > human donor cornea. Permeation and metabolism studies indicate that the in vitro permeation model HCC is able to adequately convert hydrocortisone acetate to hydrocortisone.

Thermal analysis of the crystallization and melting behavior of lipid matrices and lipid nanoparticles containing high amounts of lecithin

Lipid nanoparticles (LNP) based on triglycerides containing high amounts of the amphiphilic lipid lecithin have been proposed as a promising alternative drug delivery system with regard to drug loading capacity. Aim of the present study is to evaluate the influence of lecithin within the lipid matrix (LM) on the crystallization behavior by thermoanalysis and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The crystallinity of LM and LNP is mainly determined by the triglyceride content. However, lecithin influences the crystallization behavior significantly. WAXD shows an accelerated polymorphic transition of the LM to the beta-modification upon storage with increasing lecithin content. Both, the melting point and the crystallization temperature are not affected by the lecithin concentration and are comparable to recrystallized triglyceride bulk. However, the crystallinity indices (CI) of LM show a general decrease by 10% suggesting an incomplete crystallization. For the formation of LNP at least 10% lecithin is necessary and all systems are present in the stable beta-modification. In comparison to the undispersed LM, the crystallization temperature of LNP is significantly decreased by about 20 degrees C whereas the melting point is reduced by about 5 degrees C only. Melting enthalpy is comparable to the untreated triglyceride bulk and elevated in comparison to the undispersed LM. Isothermal heat-conduction microcalorimetry (IMC) enables the determination of crystallization kinetics after fitting of the heat flow volume according to the Avrami equation.

Use of artificial skin constructs in permeation studies of clindamycin phosphate

Penetration and permeation of topically applied substances may be studied in vitro either by using excised human and animal skin or with a 3-dimensional artificial skin construct (ASC). In the present study, ASC consisting of dermal and epidermal layers were cultivated with human dermal fibroblasts and spontaneously transformed human epidermal cells from the HaCaT-cell line. For comparative purposes the permeation barrier of ASC was also evaluated using a commercial skin model (AST-2000). Higher drug permeabilities were achieved with ASC in comparison with excised human stratum corneum (EHSC). The factors between permeation coefficients of ASC and EHSC depend on the respective drugs and also on different types of the formulation. Due to higher permeation coefficients obtained, the running time of the experiments could be reduced in the case of ASC. A further advantage of ASC is the independency of skin donations. Additionally, cultivation of ASC for the use in permeation studies is possible in advance, because storage conditions under nitrogen freezing do not affect ASC quality negatively.

Novel nanoparticulate carrier system based on carnauba wax and decyl oleate for the dispersion of inorganic sunscreens in aqueous media

The purpose of this study was to characterize carrier systems for inorganic sunscreens based on a matrix composed of carnauba wax and decyl oleate. Ultraviolet radiation attenuators like barium sulfate, strontium carbonate and titanium dioxide were tested. The lipid matrices were used either as capsules or as accompanying vehicles for the pigments in aqueous dispersions. Manufacturing was performed using high pressure homogenization at 300bar and a temperature of 75 degrees C. To evaluate the effect of the pigments on the crystalline structure of the wax-oil mixture, X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry were used. Further parameters determined were particle size, polydispersity index, z-potential, viscosity and sun protection factor (SPF). Transmission electron microscopy was also applied for visualization of nanoparticles. The X-ray diffraction patterns and the melting points of the lipid mixtures remained unchanged after the pigments were added. The particle sizes of the encapsulated species ranged from 239 to 749.9nm showing polydispersity values between 0.100 and 0.425. Surface charge measurements comprising values up to -40.8mV denoted the presence of stable dispersions. The formulations could be described as ideal viscous presenting viscosities in a range of 1.40-20.5mPas. Significant increases in SPF up to about 50 were reported after the encapsulation of titanium dioxide. Freeze fracture micrographs confirmed the presence of encapsulated inorganic crystals.

An attempt to clarify the influence of glycerol, propylene glycol, isopropyl myristate and a combination of propylene glycol and isopropyl myristate on human stratum corneum

The present study is a comparison of the influences of glycerol, propylene glycol (PG), isopropyl myristate (IPM) and a combination of PG and IPM (1/1; w/w) on human stratum corneum (SC) by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and wide and small angle X-ray-diffraction (WAXD and SAXD). The effects of glycerol and PG on SC structure can be attributed to their functional groups. In DSC transition temperatures of lipid fractions are decreased whereas SAXD long distances of lamellar phases reveal an additional interference due to an integration into hydrophilic regions of hexagonally packed lipids (PG) or orthorhombically packed lipids (glycerol). The increased repeat distance is attributed to the polar character of both molecules. However, with IPM the long distance remains unaffected. IPM is integrated into the lipophilic regions of SC lipid matrix as concluded from an increase of WAXD reflections of orthorhombical lipids and a decrease of WAXD reflections of hexagonal lipids. The combination of PG/IPM affects SC microstructure in a specific manner. DSC shows a decrease in transition temperatures of the lipid fractions, although not as much as expected from the single substances. Additionally, the combination of IPM/PG affects the short distances of orthorhombically and hexagonally packed lipids in WAXD measurements similar as PG alone, whereas the long distance seems to remain unaffected as in the case of IPM pretreatment. Adjuvants with penetration enhancing potential reveal different effects on SC lipid microstructure, which have to be kept in mind in terms of formulating systems for transdermal administration.

Physicochemical characterization of colloidal drug delivery systems such as reverse micelles, vesicles, liquid crystals and nanoparticles for topical administration

Topical administration of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals involves a variety of different formulations of which colloidal drug carrier systems are currently of particular interest. After a short introduction of reverse micellar solutions, liquid crystals, vesicles and nanoparticles, appropriate methods of physicochemical characterization are introduced including X-ray diffraction, laser light scattering, electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. Emphasis is laid on topical applications of the colloidal drug delivery systems (DDS) covered, with the main objective of both sustained drug release and improved stability of DDS.

Cultivation and characterization of a bovine in vitro model of the cornea

The aim of this study was to develop an in vitro model of the cornea of bovine cells, to characterise the model by histochemical methods and to investigate permeation of ophthalmic drugs through the model. As in the in vivo situation, an in vitro model of the cornea should consist of all three different types of cells. In the current study, the construction of the in vitro cornea was performed using cells prepared from primary cultures. To investigate the state of the cells in the cultures, growth curves were established. Immunocytochemical determination of keratin and vimentin was performed for all three isolated and sub-cultivated cell types of the bovine cornea. To further simulate the in vivo conditions, corneal epithelial cells were seeded onto the collagen-gel base containing the stromal cells with an underlying sheet of endothelium. Permeation experiments were performed with pilocarpine hydrochloride and timolol hydrogen maleate as model drugs and excised bovine cornea and the in vitro cornea as permeation barriers. The immunohistochemical investigations show that excised bovine cornea and the in vitro model of the cornea are comparable with respect to the expression of keratin K3, indicating that the primarily isolated cells correspond to the different cell types of the cornea. Culturing of the epithelial cells on the complex basis has led to the formation of a corneal epithelium with several layers, closely resembling the morphology of the in vivo epithelium. Although the permeation rates of the drug through the in vitro cornea were always higher, the sequence in which the drugs permeate through the two types of barriers was the same. The drug permeation through the in vitro cornea may therefore be a useful predictive tool to estimate the permeability coefficients of drugs through excised cornea.

Human corneal equivalent as cell culture model for in vitro drug permeation studies

AIMS

For the study of transcorneal in vitro permeation of ophthalmic drugs, excised animal cornea or corneal epithelial cell culture are frequently used as a replacement for the human cornea. The main purposes of this study were to reconstruct a complete human organotypic cornea equivalent, consisting of all three different cell types (epithelial, stromal, and endothelial); to test the barrier function of this bio-engineered human cornea using three different model drugs (pilocarpine hydrochloride (PHCl), befunolol hydrochloride (BHCl), and hydrocortisone (HC)); and to determine its usefulness as an in vitro model for prediction of ocular drug absorption into the human eye.

METHODS

A multilayer tissue construct was created step by step in Transwell cell culture insert using SV-40 immortalised human endothelial and epithelial cells and native stromal cells (fibroblasts). Morphology was characterised by light microscopy using routine H&E staining. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate ultrastructural features. Ocular permeation of drugs across the human cornea construct was tested using modified Franz cells and compared with data obtained from excised porcine cornea and previously described porcine cornea constructs.

RESULTS

and conclusion: The cornea construct exhibited typical corneal structures such as a monolayer of hexagonally shaped endothelial cells and a multilayered epithelium consisting of seven to nine cell layers with flat superficial cells. The formation of microplicae and microvilli was also confirmed. The human cornea construct showed similar permeation behaviour for all substances compared with excised porcine cornea. However, permeability (permeation coefficients K(p)) of the human cornea equivalent (PHCl 13.4*10(-6) (SD 3.01*10(-6)); BHCl 9.88*10(-6) (SD 1.79*10(-6)); HC 5.41*10(-6) (SD 0.40*10(-6)) cm/s) was about 1.6-1.8 fold higher than excised porcine cornea. Compared with data from the porcine cornea construct the cultivated human equivalent showed a decreased permeability. The reconstructed human cornea could be appropriate to predict drug absorption into the human eye.

Lateral Diffusion of Ibuprofen in Human Skin during Permeation Studies

In order to characterize the quality of dermal preparations, permeation studies using human stratum corneum or artificial skin constructs are carried out. For a better understanding of the diffusion processes a method to measure the lateral diffusion in skin samples was developed allowing an estimation of built-up drug depots. By extracting concentric skin segments surrounding the site of application, lateral drug diffusion was determined. Both, excised human skin and artificial skin constructs, showed comparable results with two phases of lateral diffusion (accumulation/redistribution). The use of permeation enhancers promoted lateral diffusion and thus increased the tendency to create a drug depot within the skin.

Role of Isopropyl Myristate, Isopropyl Alcohol and a Combination of Both in Hydrocortisone Permeation across the Human Stratum corneum

The influence of isopropyl myristate (IPM), isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and a combination of both was studied in view of hydrocortisone (HC) permeation across the human stratum corneum (SC). IPM, IPA and their combination were incorporated into water-containing hydrophilic ointment (WHS), and the resulting effects on HC permeation and on HC accumulation in human SC were investigated as well as the influence of these substances on the microstructure of the SC. Differential scanning calorimetry as well as wide- and small-angle X-ray diffraction show that IPM incorporation into SC results in densely packed bilayer lipids and a loss of order of the corneocyte-bonded lipids. Both effects result in a decreased diffusion coefficient of HC in SC and thus in a decreased permeation rate compared to that of HC from WHS. On the other hand, IPA fluidizes and disrupts the bilayer structure of the intercellular lipids. These effects, concomitant with an increased amount of dissolved HC within the ointment, increase the permeation rate of HC across SC. The combination of both ingredients effects a stronger fluidization and disruption of intercellular lipids than with IPA alone. Therefore, the permeation rate of HC across SC is higher than with IPA alone. Consequently, the IPM and IPA combination acts synergistically on the microstructure of SC.

Characterization of solidified reverse micellar solutions (SRMS) and production development of SRMS-based nanosuspensions

Solidified reverse micellar solutions (SRMS), i.e. binary mixtures of 30-60% (w/w) lecithin and two different hard fats, were investigated regarding their physicochemical properties and the influence of lecithin on solid lipids. For this purpose, the systems were characterized with X-ray and thermal analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and photon correlation spectroscopy. The melting point (m.p.) of the solid lipids, which is a crucial parameter of the solid state, was not altered up to a lecithin concentration of 50% whereas reverse micelles were likely to be frozen still in the solid state. In addition, solubilities of 17beta-oestradiol-hemihydrate, pilocarpine base and hydrochloride in the SRMS melt were studied for evaluation of the drug carrier potency. Drug solubilization in the SRMS melt increased linearly with rising amount of lecithin. SRMS-based nanosuspensions were developed with a given lecithin/hard fat ratio of 1:1 (w/w). High-pressure homogenization was applied on cold to avoid lecithin loss. Optimization of the systems in terms of a variation of the homogenizing parameters such as pressure, number of cycles and temperature resulted in nanoparticulate systems with a polysorbate 80/SRMS ratio of 1:5 (w/w), and a total amount of 5 and 15% (w/w) SRMS, respectively. Production temperatures near the lipid m.p. proved best to be maintained by varying the pressure, yielding small nanoparticles with a narrow particle size distribution. The solid lipid nanoparticles were characterized with X-ray and thermal analysis as well as TEM. The crystalline particles (beta modification) are of anisometrical shape and have transition temperatures far below the bulk m.p. due to the colloidal character of the systems.

Solvent injection as a new approach for manufacturing lipid nanoparticles--evaluation of the method and process parameters

Lipid nanoparticles (LNP) can be prepared by rapidly injecting a solution of solid lipids in water-miscible solvents or a water-miscible solvent mixture into water. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential of this method for the preparation of LNP and the physicochemical characterization of the particles produced by this method. The results show that solvent injection is a potent and versatile approach for LNP preparation. Acetone, ethanol, isopropanol and methanol are suitable solvents in contrast to ethylacetate with which no LNP could be prepared. The obtained particle sizes (z-average) were between 80 and 300 nm depending on the preparation conditions. Up to 96.5% of the employed lipid was directly transformed into LNP. The LNP formation process seems to be diffusion controlled. Physicochemical characterization of the particles by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis reveals a distinct decrease in crystallinity of the colloidal lipid in comparison to the bulk lipid. Furthermore, DSC analysis of LNP hints at a delayed recrystallization of the colloidal lipid and the presence of two modifications. Therefore, a certain physical instability of the LNP has to be considered.

Influence of different ceramides on the structure of in vitro model lipid systems of the stratum corneum lipid matrix

Human stratum corneum (SC) consists of several layers of keratinized corneocytes embedded in a lipid matrix of ordered lamellar structure which is considered to constitute the major barrier to percutaneous penetration. Artificial mixtures of SC lipids are often used as model systems to mimic the skin barrier or to investigate the effects of substances on the phase behaviour of the models. In the present study a SC lipid model composed of cholesterol, fatty acids and ceramides was used to investigate the effect of three different commercially available ceramide types on the microstructure and the physicochemical behaviour of the lipids. Polarized light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, small-angle X-ray diffraction, wide-angle X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used for physicochemical characterization. The results revealed a lamellar structure for all models but showed differences with regard to the thermal and optical behaviour depending obviously on the composition of the ceramide mixtures. A model containing a mixture of Cer[AS] was comparable to human SC lipids.

Comparative permeation studies for delta-aminolevulinic acid and its n-butylester through stratum corneum and artificial skin constructs

The improvement of the permeation properties through excised human stratum corneum and artificial skin constructs (ASC) of delta-aminolevulinic-n-butylester (ABE) compared with delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) was investigated. For this purpose the permeated amounts of each substance were determined depending on time in a Franz diffusion cell experiment with stratum corneum and ASC, respectively. Furthermore the barrier properties of ASC were compared with those of stratum corneum. Detection of both substances was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. For the determination of ABE a new HPLC method was developed. ABE could be determined with the new HPLC method with sufficient sensitivity (detection limit: 0.1 microg/ml) after derivatisation with o-phthalaldehyde (OPA). Stratum corneum and ASC were more permeable for ABE than for ALA. The permeation coefficient P of ABE through stratum corneum was nearly ten-fold higher than that of ALA. Using ASC as permeation barrier the permeation coefficient of ABE was about 22-fold higher than that of ALA. ABE and ALA permeated 142-fold and 64-fold, respectively, faster through ASC than through stratum corneum.

Solubilization of bromhexine hydrochloride in aqueous lecithin dispersions. Physicochemical characterization of interactions between drug and carrier

In aqueous systems bromhexine hydrochloride (Br-HCl) has a poor solubility (4.54 mg/g) and displays no amphiphilic character e.g. self association. Therefore the drug is molecularly dispersed in water until the solubility product of Br-HCl is exceeded. Solubilization of Br-HCl is linearly increased on addition of lecithin; calculations show that 10 mg Phospholipon 90G (P 90G) enable solubilization of additional 1.25 mg Br-HCl after the solubility product of Br-HCl has been exceeded. This means that four to five phospholipid molecules are needed for the solubilization of one drug molecule. Ternary systems with P 90G concentrations up to 20% have a lamellar microstructure. The systems are multilamellar vesicle dispersions as polarisation microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray diffractometry suggest. Furthermore, Br-HCl solubilization leads to a significant reduction of the interlamellar distance d and increases the elastic properties of the systems. 31P NMR data provide evidence that Br-HCl is solubilized within the lipophilic part of the phospholipid bilayer.

[Development of an organotypic corneal construction as an in vitro model for permeability studies]

BACKGROUND

In vitro investigations of transcorneal permeation behaviour with new drugs in ophthalmology are mainly carried out using excised corneas taken from slaughtered or experimental animals. Analogous to previously used dermis models, an in vitro model was constructed from porcine corneal cell cultures and the permeation barrier properties were tested and compared with permeation data from excised corneas.

METHODS

Epithelial, stroma and endothelial cells were successfully isolated by treatment with various enzymes and a corneal equivalent was created step-by-step which morphologically resembled the original tissue. Five different drug formulations were investigated and pilocarpine hydrochloride was chosen as the model drug. The permeation studies were made with a modified Franz cell and analysis was performed by high performance liquid chromatography. Permeation data from excised corneas and from the cornea construct were compared whereby data obtained with lipophilic preparations did not differ (factor of 1) and those obtained with aqueous formulations were relatively similar (factor of 3-4).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained show that the cornea construct can be used as an alternative to excised corneas for in vitro investigations of ophthalmic drug preparations.

Reconstruction of an in vitro cornea and its use for drug permeation studies from different formulations containing pilocarpine hydrochloride

The aim of the present contribution was to develop a functional three-dimensional tissue construct to study ocular permeation of pilocarpine hydrochloride from different formulations. The in vitro model was compared to excised bovine cornea. Modified Franz cells were used to study the transcorneal permeability. Analysis was performed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Comparisons of the permeation rates through excised bovine cornea and the in vitro model show the same rank order for the different formulations. The permeation coefficient, K(P), obtained with the cornea construct, is about 2-4-fold higher than that from excised bovine cornea. It is possible to reconstruct bovine cornea as an organotypic culture and also to use this construct as a substitute for excised bovine cornea in drug permeation studies in vitro.

Physicochemical characterization of a reverse micellar solution after loading with different drugs

Diclofenac sodium (DS), timolol maleate (TM) and pilocarpine hydrochloride (PHCl) were solubilized in a reverse micellar solution (RMS) consisting of lecithin and middle-chain triglycerides (MCT). The influence of these drugs on the physicochemical parameters of the RMS was investigated. Although none of the drugs influenced the size of the associates, the micellar shapes varied considerably. While DS and PHCl increased the anisometry, reverse micelles with TM were spherical. The transformation of the RMS into a lamellar mesophase on contact with water was generally not prevented by any of the drugs but all drugs led to an increased number of defect structures in the liquid crystal. Furthermore the interlayer distance of the lamellar mesophase was reduced by a higher content of DS. In comparison with an RMS containing isopropylmyristate (IPM) instead of MCT, differences in the physicochemical properties of the drug-free RMS and in the influences of solubilized drugs were noticed.

Interactions during aqueous film coating of ibuprofen with aquacoat ECD

During the development of a coated ibuprofen formulation a sticking tendency occurred when applying Aquacoat ECD. This interaction indicated the formation of a eutectic mixture. The compatibility of the components of Aquacoat ECD with ibuprofen was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. Cetyl alcohol, a stabilizing excipient in Aquacoat, was found to form a eutectic system with ibuprofen. It was characterized by the construction of a phase diagram with 33 mol% ibuprofen and an onset temperature of 40.5 degrees C. Wide-angle X-ray diffraction was used to identify the polymorphic forms of cetyl alcohol. The results confirmed the amorphous state in the aqueous dispersion in contrast to the beta(0)- and gamma(4)-polymorphs of solid cetyl alcohol.

Solubilization of timolol maleate in reversed micellar systems. Measurement of particle size using SAXS and PCS

Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS) are two methods to measure particle sizes in the order of 10 nm magnitude, which can be used to characterize reversed micellar systems, in this case reverse micelles consisting of lecithin and isopropyl myristate (IPM). In this study these micelles are loaded with different concentrations of the amphiphilic anti-glaucoma drug timolol maleate (TM). The PCS results are consistent with those yielded by SAXS, showing a decrease of particle size with higher TM concentration. In addition, SAXS is capable to give information about the particle shape. This kind of evaluation yields an ellipsoidal shape for micelles with low drug loads, which transform into nearly spherical micelles at higher drug concentrations.

Controlled release of solid-reversed-micellar-solution (SRMS) suppositories containing metoclopramide-HCl

The investigated drug delivery system is a solid-reversed-micellar-solution (SRMS). The composition of this solution is 70% Witepsol W35 and 30% (w/w) lecithin. 1% (w/w) metoclopramide-HCl (MCP) was solubilized in the SRMS. After melting and on contact with water or any physicological aqueous media the SRMS exhibits an application induced transformation into a semisolid system of liquid crystalline microstructure. The structure of the liquid crystal has been identified by polarized light microscopy as a lamellar mesophase. Due to a low coefficient of diffusion in this mesophase a controlled release of the drug may be possible. The release profiles of the in vitro experiments have shown zero order kinetics and a sustained release of the SRMS-suppositories (SRMS-supp.) in comparison with commercial suppositories (Gastrosil-supp.). To examine bioavailability an in vivo study with rabbits was carried out. Five SRMS-supp. (10 mg MCP) and five Gastrosil-supp. (10 mg MCP) were tested in a parallel-group study. These experiments have shown a five times longer mean residence time (parameter of sustained release) in comparison with Gastrosil-supp. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that rectal application of SRMS-supp. provides an appropriate route for controlled release of MCP via application induced transformation into liquid crystals.

Modified water containing hydrophilic ointment with suspended hydrocortisone-21-acetate--the influence of the microstructure of the cream on the in vitro drug release and in vitro percutaneous penetration

Water containing hydrophilic ointment DAB 1997 was modified by the incorporation of ethanol and the effects of ethanol on the evaporation, the drug liberation and the permeation through human excised stratum corneum were investigated. Creams with 10%, 20%, 30% (v/v) and without ethanol were produced. As a model drug 2% (w/w) hydrocortisone-21-acetate was suspended in the o/w cream. The evaporation of the creams decreased with an increasing amount of ethanol which was unexpected because the vapor pressure of ethanol is higher than that of water. From this result it was concluded that ethanol might be interlamellarly fixed in the mixed crystal of the polyhydrate of the emulsifier to a higher extent than it is distributed within the aqueous bulk phase. In context with the liberation studies, ethanol decreased the drug liberation from the cream. This is in accordance with the above hypothesis of the ethanol partitioning within the cream, because the solubility of the drug in ethanol is higher than that in water. Therefore the interlamellar drug concentration should be higher than the solubility of the drug in the bulk phase, with the assumption that the gel network of the emulsifier polyhydrate is finally responsible for the delay in drug liberation. The permeation through stratum corneum showed no significant differences between the alcohol-free and the alcohol-loaded formulations. Obviously the decrease in drug liberation by ethanol was compensated for by the penetration enhancing effect.

Comparative investigations to evaluate the use of organotypic cultures of transformed and native dermal and epidermal cells for permeation studies

In a comparative study organotypic cultures of both transformed and native dermal and epidermal cells were used for permeation studies. In these organotypic cultures the dermal cells are incorporated into a contracted collagen gel, the epidermal cells are seeded on top of this gel and form a multilayered stratified epidermis when cultivated at the air-liquid interface. For permeation studies two different donor systems containing ibuprofen acid were used, Ibutop-Creme and Dolgit-Mikrogel. Studies using excised human stratum corneum showed differences in drug permeability for these two formulations which were also observed when the native organotypic cultures were used. In general, organotypic cultures show a higher permeability for topically applied drugs than excised human stratum corneum, the cultures consisting of transformed cells showed an increase in drug permeability for the Dolgit-Mikrogel compared with the native cultures which might be due to a higher sensitivity for the enhancer isopropanol in this formulation.

Transformation of a liposomal dispersion containing ibuprofen lysinate and phospholipids into mixed micelles - physico-chemical characterization and influence on drug permeation through excised human stratum corneum

Our study is meant as a contribution to the investigation of molecular association of phospholipids and amphiphilic substances like, e.g. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Our research focused on physico-chemical characterization of ternary systems containing ibuprofen lysinate, lecithin and water. The influence of the resulting microstructures on drug release and permeation through excised human stratum corneum was also investigated. Depending on the mixing ratio different physical states (lamellar and hexagonal liquid crystals, micellar solutions, liposomal dispersions and biphasic systems) were determined by gross, polarizing microscopic and small angle-X-ray analysis. A special emphasis was laid upon the storage-induced transformation of liposomal dispersions into mixed micellar solutions and its influence on drug release and permeation. A model for the transformation process is presented. Drug release of the liposomal dispersion (Da=1.1x10-5 cm2/s) and of the identically composed mixed micellar solution (Da=2.9x10-5 cm2/s) was delayed compared with the data of the aqueous drug solution (Da=4.7x10-5 cm2/s). Because of the association of ibuprofen lysinate molecules with phospholipid molecules within the liposomal and the mixed micellar system the share of free ibuprofen lysinate monomers, which can pass through the dialysis membrane in the release experiment, is markedly reduced. The results of permeation experiments of these systems, however, did not correspond to the release data. The permeability of the mixed micellar solution rose after 6 weeks of storage (P=4.2x10-8 cm/s), and almost reached the permeation of the aqueous solution (P=3.9x10-8 cm/s), whereas the permeation of the liposomal dispersion was very slow (P=1.5x10-8 cm/s). The different colloidal microstructures of the formulations obviously resulted in divergent interactions with the permeation barrier - the stratum corneum - and subsequently in different permeation behavior.

Phase transformation of a liposomal dispersion into a micellar solution induced by drug-loading

PURPOSE

Loading a liposomal dispersion with drug may cause a phase transformation into a micellar solution. The present contribution presents a detailed physicochemical characterization and an overall model which describes transformation due to the properties of any drug.

METHODS

Characterization of liposomal dispersions was obtained by photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Microstructure of colloidal solutions was analysed by 31P-NMR and SAXS.

RESULTS

At weight ratios of phospholipid to drug from 16:1 to 2:1, liposomal dispersions of milky-white appearance and a mean particle size of about 200 nm were obtained. From a ratio of phospholipid to drug of 1:1 downwards, the systems became nearly transparent. The particle size decreased to a value below 25 nm. SAXS also revealed the change of the colloids. Down to a ratio of phospholipid to drug of 2:1 the systems were described as bilayer-structured. At and below the ratio of 1:1, a mixed micelle was indicated. In the 31P-NMR spectra, the transformation is emphasized by both appearance and disappearance of signals. A model based on the theory of self-assembly is presented which explains the phase transformation due to drug amphiphilicity.

CONCLUSIONS

We predict that the model presented will hold in general only due to the amphiphilic properties of the drug.

In vivo and in vitro diclofenac sodium evaluation after rectal application of soft gelatine capsules enabling application induced transformation (AIT) into a semisolid system of liquid crystals (SSLC) for controlled release

PURPOSE

Reverse micellar solutions of diclofenac sodium were encapsulated in soft gelatine capsules. On contact with aqueous media they exhibited an application induced transformation (AIT) into a semisolid system of liquid crystals (SSLC) which slows down drug release. The aim of the present paper was to study in vitro and in vivo drug release from these systems after rectal application.

METHODS

In vitro drug release was determined in a self-constructed dissolution apparatus to simulate rectal application. For in vivo bioavailability studies rabbits were used as animal models. In vitro release and in vivo bioavailability of the capsules was compared to Voltaren suppositories.

RESULTS

The release profiles of the in vitro experiments show zero-order kinetics. The in vivo bioavailability studies show bioequivalence in terms of AUC for both formulations (capsules and Voltaren suppositories). The mean residence time (parameter of sustained release) of the capsules is three time longer in comparison to Voltaren suppositories.

CONCLUSIONS

Rectal administration of capsules provides an appropriate route for controlled release via AIT-SSLC which could be clearly verified in rabbits.

Ketoprofen sodium: preparation and its formation of mixed crystals with ketoprofen

A simple two-step process for the preparation of ketoprofen sodium was developed. The procedure involved dissolution of ketoprofen in ethanolic NaOH followed by evaporation of the solvent. The resulting amorphous solid was crystallized by controlled precipitation from 96% ethanol. The sodium salt proved to be stable for 4 years and its aqueous solutions for at least 1 year (investigated period). Ketoprofen sodium appears to be an alternative bulk form to ketoprofen acid for production of formulations after further characterization of the compound.

Characterization of a commercial liposome spray

The commercial liposome spray Heparin-pur-ratiopharm was physicochemically characterized. This preparation is said to result in a fine gel-film containing pure, concentrated liposomes (including drug) on the skin after application and evaporation of the water/ethanol-mixture of the system. As phospholipids tends to form lamellar structures at lower water concentrations the structural characteristics of Heparin-pur-ratiopharm were investigated in the original preparation and after a drying process, which should be comparable to application on skin. For the characterization several methods were used, e.g. photon correlation spectroscopy, electron and polarized light microscopy, small angle X-ray (SAX) scattering and SAX diffraction. The results of the present investigation indicate that there are no changes in the colloidal state of the phospholipids before and after drying and application of the spray. There seem to be only changes in the degree of dispersion of the liquid crystalline phase, i.e. from small uni- or oligolamellar liposomes in the original preparation via multilamellar vesicles to a lamellar mesophase during the drying process. Therefore, it seems that there are no differences for the application of heparin if a preparation containing small uni- or oligolamellar liposomes is used or if the phospholipids are structured differently. The major point of importance for drug application, therefore, seems to be the presence of phospholipids as they possibly work as enhancer for the uptake of the drug through the skin to achieve a quick effect.

[Structure of cholesterol-containing creams]

The colloidal structure of a four-component system consisting of cholesterol, fatty alcohol, petrolatum and water was studied. Depending on the variation of temperature, chain length of the fatty alcohol and concentration of all components, creamy systems of w/o type could be prepared, which present different structural features. Liquid phases as well as crystalline and/or liquid crystalline phases participate in the structure of the creams. The liquid phases are represented by water and by liquid hydrocarbons of low molecular weight of petrolatum. Part of the surfactants is dissolved in this latter phase. The liquid crystalline phase is formed by cholesterol and fatty alcohol together. The characterization of the lamellar liquid crystalline phase was performed by polarized light microscopy and small angle x-ray diffraction. The formation of the lamellar liquid crystals is favoured in a certain molar concentration range of cholesterol and fatty alcohol. The liquid crystalline region is largest with tetradecanol. The lamellar liquid crystals swell with water up to a certain limit. This incorporation of water stabilizes the lamellar liquid crystals so that they are stable in a larger temperature range. The crystalline structures form a network consisting of solid hydrocarbons and the eutectic mixture of cholesterol and fatty alcohol. If water is present the surfactants crystallize as hydrates. A surplus of water can be dispersed as droplets mechanically. Referring to maximum capacity of water incorporation, systems with lowest crystalline amounts (only the network of petrolatum) were best. The surfactants should be completely dissolved.