Advances in encapsulated dermal formulations in chemoprevention of melanoma: An overview.

Abstract

The three forms of skin cancer are cutaneous malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma skin cancer is an aggressive type and one of the most chemotherapy-resistant malignancies. Conventional topical products are beset with limitations, leading to lower efficacy. There is a growing need to develop topical formulations encapsulated in polymeric and lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, dendrimers, and liposomes exhibiting enhanced skin penetration and longer skin retention leading to better efficacy. The objective of this article is the screening of reported novel drug encapsulated delivery systems effective topically in melanoma chemoprevention. The scope of this work is to provide an overview pertaining to the development and evaluation of three exemplary drug delivery systems (DDS), namely vesicular, particulate, and specialized emulsions. Topical drug delivery approaches targeting skin cancer have been reviewed and discussed. The focal point of the article is presentation of insights from published studies. This review focuses on the novel delivery systems in chemoprevention of melanoma with discussion highlighting on advances in topical delivery. Literature indicates that drug-loaded encapsulated topical formulations when compared with conventional dosage forms for skin cancer treatment exhibit greater efficacy and provide benefits like extended drug release, protection of the active ingredient against degradation, and lower skin irritation. Incorporation of phytoconstituents in newer delivery systems will be the way forward for improved topical chemoprevention strategy in melanoma. This has raised hope in making dermal therapy more useful and acceptable.