Wild Passiflora (Passiflora spp.) seed oils and their nanoemulsions induce proliferation in HaCaT keratinocytes cells

Abstract

Despite the potential of Passiflora spp. as potential as source of bioactive compounds, poor aqueous solubility and stability issues restrict their use in pharmaceutical field. The most suitable approach to overcome such limitations is the development of formulations based on proper delivery systems. Among them, nanoemulsions have been widely used as carrier systems that can guarantee better cutaneous performance of herbal oils. This study evaluated physicochemical properties and cellular effects of seed oils from four varieties of wild Passiflora spp. The fatty acids profile of the seed oils was analyzed by gas chromatography and cell viability assay was performed on J774 macrophages. The nanoemulsions were prepared for the different seeds oils and cell proliferation was evaluated on HaCaT keratinocytes. The oils presented a predominance of unsaturated fatty acids, mainly linoleic acid (>65%) and no cytotoxic effects were observed on J774 cells up to 100 μg/mL. All nanoemulsions presented droplet size about 200 nm, narrow polydispersity index (<0.300) and overall, physicochemical properties consistent with good stability after 90 days of storage. The oils and nanoemulsions induced proliferation of keratinocytes, where nanoemulsions prepared with P. alata oil was the most effective, reaching 150% effect. These findings demonstrate proper cytocompatibility of oils from wild Passiflora spp. and their ability to stimulate the proliferation of keratinocytes, which suggest their potential use as herbal bioactives for dermal healing. Their incorporation in nanoemulsions is an innovative approach for obtaining nanotechnological dermatological products through a sustainable concept that can reach organoleptic characteristics superior to the in natura product.