Abstract
The aim of this work was the simultaneous loading of quercetin and mint essential oil (mint oil) in phospholipid vesicles specifically tailored to obtain an antibacterial and antioxidant mouthwash. The vesicles were prepared using soy lecithin and Tween 80 as bilayer components, and a mixture of phosphate buffer solution (33%), propylene glycol (33%) and ethanol (33%) as dispersing phase. The formation of regularly shaped, spherical and unilamellar vesicles was confirmed by cryogenic transmission electron microscopy analyses. Similarly, light scattering results disclosed that the size of the vesicles increased by increasing the concentration of mint oil, but at the same time the high amount of mint oil ensured high stability, as the size of these vesicles remained unchanged during 12 months of storage. All tested formulations were highly biocompatible towards epithelial cells and capable of counteracting oxidative cell damages caused by hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, the vesicles prepared with the highest concentration of mint oil inhibited the proliferation of the cariogenic Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus).
Highlights
Considering this lack of knowledge, in the present study quercetin was co-loaded with mint essential oil in liposomes designed for the delivery of these active molecules to the oral mucosa
Vesicles were enriched with Tween 80 and a blend of phosphate buffer and propylene glycol, and ethanol was used as hydrating medium [15]
Tween 80 was added, and the water phase was partially replaced with propylene glycol and ethanol (1:1:1 v/v)
Summary
Previous studies confirmed the promising effectiveness of quercetin mainly related to the ability of scavenging such molecules This flavonoid can neutralize highly aggressive species such as peroxynitrite and the hydroxyl radicals, resulting in an important tool for the treatment of several diseases [4] Despite its high potential, its application in the treatment of oral diseases has not been deeply explored yet, even if it can exert antioxidant effects and antibacterial activity. Due to its low skin and mucosal penetration, its efficacy is limited, especially when administered in conventional dosage forms, but it can be improved by its incorporation into phospholipid vesicles formulated for mucosal administration [9] Due to their biphasic lamellar structure and cell affinity, these vesicles may ensure optimal performance and security, especially in the delivery of natural molecules [10].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
