Gel Formulation Research Articles

Effect of Katuk Leaves Ethanol Extract Gel as an Antibacterial and Antifungal in Orthodontic Treatment

Fixed orthodontic treatment is one option for treating malocclusion. The intricate design makes it difficult for patients to clean their teeth and can cause the emergence of microorganisms in the oral cavity. Katuk plant (Sauropus androgynus (L.) Merr.) is commonly used as herbal medicine. Flavonoids in katuk leaves have antimicrobial properties. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of katuk leaf ethanol extract gel as an antimicrobial by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi involved in orthodontic treatment. The study was an experimental study with a post-test-only control group using katuk leaves ethanol extract gel formulation as treatment, aquadest gel as a negative control, ketoconazole as a positive control against Candida albicans, and amoxicillin against Streptococcus mutans. Data were analyzed using the Kruskall– Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests (P < 0.05). The results show that katuk leaves have inhibition on Streptococcus mutans (P = 0.000) growth but have no inhibition on Candida albicans (P = 1.00) growth. The conclusion of this study is that the gel of katuk leaves ethanol extract (S. androgynus (L.) merr.) has antibacterial activity against S. mutans in the oral cavity but no antifungal effect on C. albicans. Keywords: Candida albicans, fixed orthodontics, katuk leaves, Streptococcus mutans

Application of validated size-exclusion chromatography method for physicochemical characterization of topical gel formulation of deferoxamine conjugated with PEGylated carbon nanoparticles

The focus of current research work was to develop and validate size-exclusion chromatography method and develop and evaluate gel formulation of deferoxamine conjugated with PEGylated carbon nanoparticles (DEF-PEG-CNP) for topical delivery. Size-exclusion chromatography-based method was validated as per ICH guidelines. Effect of Carbopol® 974P and Transcutol® on the nanoparticles’ permeation was studied by 3-level full factorial design of experiment. Gel formulations were characterized for viscosity, cohesive and adhesive force by texture analyzer, and drug permeation through pig ear and human skin. The analytical method was specific as no interference from solvent or excipients were observed and met preset criteria of validation with limit of quantification of 0.24 ± 0.00 μg/mL. The nanoparticles permeation, steady state flux, and retained drug were statistically (p < 0.05) affected by Carbopol® 974P and Transcutol® percentage in the gel formulations. The permeation, steady state flux, and retained nanoparticles from the gel formulations varied from 23.2 ± 2.5 % to 70.9 ± 113.3 %, 0.8 ± 0.3 to 6.6 ± 2.1 μg/cm2.h, and 5.6 ± 0.3 to 38.8 ± 8.8 µg/g, respectively. Permeation of the nanoparticles was 1.9 folds higher in pig skin compared to human skin. Immunofluorescence detected successful permeation of DEF-PEG-CNP particles into skin. In conclusion, the analytical method can quantify the nanoparticles from the gel formulation without interference, and gel formulation of the nanoparticles can permeate across the skin.

Structuring of electrorheological fluids in polymer matrices for miniature actuators

Miniature actuators are utilized in various application fields, from robotics to medical devices, where compact dimensions, precise movements, and cost-effectiveness are crucial factors. Particularly for applications like braille displays, there is a critical demand for lightweight, portable, and affordable actuators to integrate into daily life for visually impaired people. However, existing actuation technologies such as electroactive polymers, electrorheological materials, and piezoelectric elements often do not meet the specific requirements of miniature actuators, especially for braille displays. Therefore, this study investigates the behavior of electrorheological fluids incorporated into polymer matrices of cellulose and proteins for miniature actuators to overcome the primary challenge of sedimentation through the structuring of the liquid. The gel formulations are tested in three distinct setups: the V-shaped, horizontal plates, and valve system. These experiments demonstrated immediate structural changes in the gel formulations, achieving reversible movement. Furthermore, the valve setup even enabled the analysis of the strength of the hardened mixtures by the resistance against applied air pressure. The results demonstrate that incorporating electrorheological fluids into polymer matrices is not only feasible but also preserves the characteristic behavior of electrorheological fluids under electrical field exposure. This behavior validates the applicability and suitability of modified electrorheological fluid mixtures in miniature actuators.

Structure formation mechanism of pectin-soy protein isolate gels: Unraveling the role of peach pectin fractions.

This study investigated the macro & micro properties of the composite gels formed by soy protein isolate (SPI) and peach pectin fractions: water-soluble pectin (WSP), chelator-soluble pectin (CSP), and sodium carbonate soluble pectin (NSP). Specially, the interaction between pectin fractions and SPI was studied to explain the formation mechanism of the composite gels. WSP, as a high methoxyl pectin, exhibited rich branching (sugar ratio B=3.10). CSP, as a low methoxyl pectin, depicted a high linearity. NSP, with low linearity (sugar ratio A=6.14), contained numerous side chains. Due to the strong interaction between pectin fractions and SPI, the new composites with excellent dense network microstructures were formed, accompanied by increased apparent viscosity, higher G' and G'', and reduced particle size. XRD and FT-IR analysis highlighted the modifications in gel structures. SEM-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy observed elemental distribution and framework composition in pectin-SPI gels. Hydrophobic interaction was the most important chemical force in pectin-SPI binding. Molecular docking results indicated that galacturonic acid in pectin bound more strongly to 7S than to 11S, with tighter hydrogen bonds. Notably, WSP-SPI showed the lowest turbidity, indicating enhanced solubility and particle dispersion, which helped prevent aggregation. CSP-SPI demonstrated the highest G' and G'', ascribing to the high linearity and abundant carboxyl groups in CSP. NSP-SPI showed the highest apparent viscosity and irregular structure. Overall, the texture properties of pectin-SPI gels were driven by pectin's structure properties, which would provide new and valuable information for texture control in gel formulation.

Development of a novel papain gel formulation: Exploring different concentrations for smear-layer deproteinization and enhanced dentin bonding

BackgroundThe self-etch adhesive system modifies but does not completely remove the smear layer, leading to the weakening of the bond strength due to the formation of a hybridized layer. Smear-layer deproteinization with papain enzyme partially removes the smear layer, and increases the bond strength with self-etch adhesive. The aim was to develop a deproteinizing agent with a high papain enzyme concentration to enhance dentin bonding with self-etch adhesives. MethodsPapain enzyme gel formulations (15 and 30 IU/g) were prepared and tested for physical stability, viscosity, pH, homogeneity, and organoleptic properties. Moreover, 64 teeth were used to test the deproteinization efficiency of the formed gel. Fourier transform infrared was used to calculate the ratio of organic to inorganic components of smear-layer after deproteinization with 15 and 30 IU/g papain gel and a 6 IU/g commercial papain gel. Moreover, tensile bond strength was measured after deproteinization and dentin bonding with self-etching adhesive for the same groups. A molecular modeling simulation was also performed to evaluate the protein-protein binding interaction, predict the conformational/orientation patterns, and estimate the binding energies of papain with collagen target protein. ResultsBoth 15 and 30 IU/g gels exhibited similar viscosity, pH, homogeneity, and organoleptic properties. However, after 60 s, the 15 IU/g gel was solid, while the 30 IU/g gel was half-solid. All tested groups decreased the amide:phosphate ratio and increased tensile bond strength. Binding complexes between papain and three deposited collagen-1 structures formed strong binding energies with high negative values and residue-wise binding patterns. ConclusionsThe production of the papain enzyme gel with a concentration of 15 IU/g was successful. In addition, it demonstrated promising results when used as a smear-layer deproteinization agent. Clinical significanceEnzymatic smear-layer deproteinization may improve dentin adhesion, and high concertation papain enzyme gels may improve dentin adhesion with the use of self-etch adhesive

Preparation and properties of new green polyacrylamide hydrogels

Abstract The pursuit of low-toxicity hydrogels represents a focal point and frontier in contemporary research endeavors. Partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide emerges as the most prevalent polymer employed in the formulation of priority flow control gels, owing to its favorable cost-efficiency and heightened receptivity to crosslinking agents. A noteworthy discovery pertains to the utilization of a green crosslinking agent derived from TiSO4, which induces the gelation of polyacrylamide, resulting in an elevation of apparent viscosity from 1159 mPa·s to 100, 000 mPa·s. Extensive investigations into the primary factors influencing the performance of crosslinked polymer gels and their underlying principles have been conducted. The advent of such gel plugging agents holds promise in addressing challenges encountered in select reservoir scenarios, thereby furnishing reliable technical underpinnings for the efficacious stimulation of oil fields.

Topical Anti-Inflammatory Formulations from Medicinal Plant Extracts: Stability, Efficacy, and Cytokine Modulation in a Carrageenan-Induced Paw Edema Model

Background: Traditional anti-inflammatory drugs, like NSAIDs, often cause side effects, which has fueled interest in plant-based alternatives with fewer adverse effects. Medicinal plants such as turmeric (Curcuma longa), ginger (Zingiber officinale), frankincense (Boswellia serrata), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and gotu kola (Centella asiatica) are known for their bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory efficacy of these plant extracts in topical formulations. Methods: Ethanol extracts of the selected plants were prepared and formulated into topical gel and cream forms. Stability testing was conducted over a 30-day period to confirm the formulations' consistency, color, and pH. Anti-inflammatory efficacy was assessed using a carrageenan-induced paw edema model in Wistar rats. The animals were divided into six groups, including control, standard drug (indomethacin), and plant-based formulations at two extract concentrations (5% and 10%). Edema reduction was measured using a plethysmometer, and serum cytokine levels (TNF-α and IL-6) were quantified via ELISA. Histopathological analyses of tissue samples further evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects. Results: Both gel and cream formulations demonstrated stability over 30 days. The 10% extract cream formulation achieved the highest reduction in paw edema (70%) and reduced inflammation levels comparable to indomethacin. The 10% extract gel showed similar results (65% reduction). Biochemical analysis revealed significant reductions in TNF-α and IL-6 levels, especially in the 10% cream and gel groups, aligning with histopathological findings that indicated reduced tissue damage and inflammatory cell infiltration in treated groups compared to controls. Conclusion: The findings suggest that these plant extracts possess potent anti-inflammatory effects when formulated into stable, topical products. The 10% extract cream formulation was particularly effective, offering a promising alternative for managing inflammation with fewer side effects.

Prolonged Skin Retention of Luliconazole from SLNs Based Topical Gel Formulation Contributing to Ameliorated Antifungal Activity.

The development of effective therapy is necessary because the patients have to contend with long-termtherapy as skin fungal infections usually relapse and are hardly treated. Despite being a potent antifungal agent, luliconazole (LCZ) has certainshortcomings such as limited skin penetration, low solubility in aqueous medium, and poor skin retention. Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) were developed using biodegradable lipids by solvent injection method and were embodied into the gel base for topical administration. After in-vitro characterizations of the formulations, molecular interactions of the drug with excipients were analyzed using in-silico studies. Ex-vivo release was determined in contrast to the pure LCZ and the commercial formulation followed by in-vivo skin localization, skin irritation index, and antifungal activity. The prepared SLNs have an average particle size of 290.7nm with no aggregation of particles and homogenous gels containing SLNs with ideal rheology and smooth texture properties were successfully prepared. The ex-vivo LCZ release from the SLN gel was lower than the commercial formulation whereas its skin deposition and skin retention were higher as accessed by CLSM studies. The drug reaching the systemic circulation and the skin irritation potential were found to be negligible. Thesolubility and drug retention in the skin were both enhanced by the development of SLNs as a carrier. Thus, SLNs offer significant advantages by delivering long lasting concentrations of LCZ at the site of infection for a complete cure of the fungal load together with skin localization of the topical antifungal drug.

Prediction of 3D printability and rheological properties of different pineapple gel formulations based on LF-NMR

In this study, a pineapple-starch-xanthan gum system was prepared using fresh pineapple juice, maize starch, and xanthan gum (XG). The feasibility of using low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) to predict pineapple gels' rheological properties and printability was evaluated. Results indicated that as maize starch and XG increased, the gel transformed from unable to support printed models to a stable shape, eventually becoming too viscous for printing. Principal component analysis and Fisher discriminant analysis classified the gels into four categories based on their rheological properties, aligning with the actual printing results. Pearson correlation analysis showed a strong correlation between the LF-NMR parameters and the rheological properties of gels. The partial least squares (PLS) and back-propagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN) models constructed using the LF-NMR parameters can effectively predict the rheological properties of pineapple gels. Therefore, LF-NMR is a valuable, non-destructive method for quickly assessing pineapple gels' 3D printing suitability.

Validation of Analytical Method for Vitamin A in Bioadhesive Ocular Cationic Nanoemulsion Loaded into Thermosensitive Gel Using RP-HPLC

Various test methods have been previously documented for determining vitamin A levels in different dosage forms. This study specifically examines an isocratic reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method designed for the direct extraction of vitamin A. The objective is to validate an analytical method for quantifying vitamin A in bioadhesive cationic nanoemulsions incorporated into thermosensitive gels. The method employs isocratic RP-HPLC with a YMC-Triart C18 column (L1), dimensions of 4.6 mm × 250 nm, particle size of S-5 µm, and a UV detector at λ = 265 nm. The mobile phase consists of HPLC-grade methanol, acetonitrile, and n-hexane in a ratio of 46.5:46.5:7. Validation parameters were assessed including selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of quantification (LOQ), and limit of detection (LOD). Correlation coefficients were determined with an R2 value of 0.9995 in the concentration range of 264–396 μg/mL (w/v). Recovery percentages ranged from 99.295% to 99.878%. Repeatability and intermediate precision relative standard deviations (RSD) were found to be 0.318% and 0.254%, respectively. The LOD was established at 2.018 μg/mL, and the LOQ was determined to be 6.114 μg/mL. The results affirm cost-effective and well-suited for the accurate measurement of vitamin A levels in bioadhesive thermosensitive gel formulations.

Pharmacological evaluation of a new nanoformulation in the erectile tissue of rabbits and humans

The failure of achieving a penile erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse is known as erectile dysfunction (ED). The primary mediator for penile erection is nitric oxide (NO). ED is often associated with endothelial/nitrergic dysfunction characterized by a reduction of the bioavailability of NO. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE-5Is) clinical efficacy in the treatment of ED depends on the integrity of the NO-sGC-PKG pathway. In the present study, we probed the effect of sodium nitroprusside incorporated into mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MPSi-NP), which traps cyanide and slowly releases NO. MPSi-NP induced a maximal relaxation of 92.8 ± 5.2% in rabbit corpora cavernosa (RbCC), blunted by a soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) inhibitor and blockers of calcium-dependent potassium channels. MPSi-NP abolished spontaneous contractions of human corpora cavernosa (HCC) strips. In addition, MPSi-NP induced maximal relaxation of phenylephrine precontracted HCC by 118.6 ± 3.6%, and in comparison, tadalafil induced a maximal relaxation of HCC by 98.3 ± 1.2%. Similarly, the sGC inhibitor blocked the MPSi-NP relaxation. MPSi-NP potentiated the relaxation induced by tadalafil. MPSi-NP increased cGMP levels in HCC strips by 2.6-fold and increased by 3.5-fold the phosphorylation level of the VASP protein, which is a downstream target to PKG. MPSi-NP effectively relaxes RbCC and HCC by activating the sGC-PKG pathway and potentiates the tadalafil response. MPSi-NP could be helpful in conditions where nitric oxide availability is decreased. A topical gel formulation of MPSi-NP could be used as a rescue therapy to treat true non-responders of PDE5Is drugs.

PROGRESS OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHITOSAN FORMULATIONS WITH INSULIN TO PROMOTE SKIN WOUND HEALING

The treatment of difficult-to-heal wounds is a major problem in modern medicine. The search for new materials and ways to treat wounds is important and timely. Insulin stimulates proliferation, differentiation and migration of skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Chitosan has beneficial biological properties and can be an effective carrier of insulin. This review discusses research into the development of chitosan formulations with insulin to aid local treatment of chronic wounds. The PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched for studies on chitosan preparations with insulin in terms of their efficacy in wound healing. Twelve original English-language articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals were included in the analysis. Insulin preparations in a chitosan matrix in the form of gel, hydrogel, injection and non-woven dressing are highly effective at all stages of the wound-healing process. They show anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Insulin from the formulations is released in a prolonged or controlled manner. However, it seems necessary to learn more about the mechanisms of insulin action within lesions. Of note, the data are mainly from basic and preclinical studies. Only one clinical study has been conducted.

Optimasi formula sampo ekstrak etanol daun delima (Punica granatum L.) dengan metode Simplex Lattice Design

Anti-dandruff shampoo on the market still uses zinc pyriton which has the side effect of causing hair loss. Pomegranate leaves have strong antifungal activity against dandruff-causing fungi. This research aims to determine the optimum formula and physical properties of pomegranate leaf shampoo preparations with variations of SLS and cocamide DEA. The ethanol extract of pomegranate leaves was extracted by soxhletation and carried out in a tube test. Eight shampoo formula designs were determined using the SLD method. The shampoo was tested for foam height, pH, and viscosity to obtain the optimum formula. The optimum shampoo preparation was tested for physical properties, including organoleptic tests, homogeneity, foam stability, foam height, pH, and viscosity. The results of the test for the physical properties of the optimum shampoo preparation were verified using the SPSS application with the one-sample t-test method. Pomegranate leaf ethanol extract positively contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. The optimization results obtained the optimum shampoo formula, namely a combination of SLS 5.5% and cocamide DEA 15.5%. Optimum formula shampoo has a black color, menthol odor, gel form, ingredients mixed homogeneously, foam stability 81.83%, foam height 9.30 ± 0.26 cm, pH 5.91 ± 0.45, and viscosity 1646.66 ± 220.23 cP.

QbD Approach for the Development of Tea Tree Oil-Enhanced Microemulgel Loaded with Curcumin and Diclofenac for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment.

Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting millions worldwide each year, poses a significant threat due to its potential for progressive joint damage and debilitating pain if left untreated. Topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic treatments offer localized relief with reduced systemic side effects compared to conventional oral therapies, making them a promising option for managing rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, the current study endeavored to formulate a microemulsion gel formulation loaded with diclofenac and curcumin for topical administration in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, utilizing Tea tree oil. The ratio of surfactant and cosurfactant was 4:1, assessed by pseudoternary phase diagram on the basis of the maximum emulsification region. The microemulsion underwent optimization using a Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) with constraints of minimum particle size, polydispersity index, and maximum transmittance. The Curcufenac-T microemulsion had a particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and transmittance of 151.82 ± 15.9 nm, 0.287 ± 0.021, and -5.78 ± 0.26 mV, respectively. DSC analyses confirmed the stability and compatibility of diclofenac and curcumin within the formulation. The microemulsion was changed into gel form by incorporating 1% carbopol-934. Skin permeation analysis revealed that the percentage of diclofenac permeated at 0.5 h from Curcufenac-T microemugel and the conventional gel was 12.1% and 3.9%, respectively, while at 12 h, the rates were 82.6% and 34.2%, respectively. In vitro permeability demonstrated significant potential for the effective delivery of diclofenac and curcumin to targeted sites, compared to conventional gel. Therefore, it was deduced that the Tea tree oil integrated diclofenac and curcumin microemulsion gel could enhance the effectiveness of diclofenac and serve as a promising vehicle for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Hydroxypropyl Cellulose Hydrogel Containing Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum Essential-Oil-Loaded Polymeric Micelles for Enhanced Treatment of Melanoma.

Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum essential oil (OEO) is a natural oil with high therapeutic potential. For some applications, however, the development of novel formulations is still needed to improve the bioavailability and stability of OEO. In this study, we describe the fabrication of an original nanocomposite hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) physical hydrogel, containing OEO-loaded polymeric micelles, for topical delivery. The concentration of the main active compounds of OEO-carvacol and thymol-was determined using gas chromatography (GC) analysis. OEO was first encapsulated into Pluronic F127 micelles, and then embedded into HPC gel. Micellar and gel formulations of pure polymers and OEO-containing systems were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and rheology measurements, respectively. Selected formulations were evaluated for cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activity. The hydrogel formulation of HPC with micellar OEO (8% HPC, 2% F127, 1% OEO) exhibited sustained release of the oil and selectivity towards SH-4 tumor cells (an in vitro model of melanoma).

Tofacitinib Citrate-Loaded Topical Gel for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Formulation and In-vitro-In-vivo Characterization.

This study aims to create and assess the anti-arthritic activity of tofacitinib citrate (TC) as a topical gel formulation. Using the gelling agent Carbopol 980 P, seven gel formulations were formed. The gel formulations were assessed for pH, drug content, spreadability, homogeneity, and in-vitro diffusion profile. Out of all the formulations, G7 exhibited superior release characteristics (99.1%) in comparison to the other formulations. The DSC research revealed a strong endothermal peak at 214.17°C and demonstrated an interaction with the excipients taken into consideration in this investigation. While carrying out the in-vivo study, formulation G7 successfully reduced inflammation induced by CFA. Ultimately, the optimal formulation for the “G7” can be determined &amp; successfully treats inflammation associated with arthritis. As per stability studies, it was specified that there are no such major changes in the long-term and accelerated stability testing study.

Development and Characterization of Oxiconazole Loaded Plga Nanogel.

The goal of the current study is to develop and improve polylactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) loaded with oxiconazole nanogel for topical application. Oxiconazole Nanoprecipitation was used to create the nanoparticles method using PLGA and acetone. The point prediction method served as the foundation for the ideal oxiconazole nanoparticle composition using the Minitab®21 software, three levels two factors (32 ). The optimized composition of oxiconazole nanoparticle showed a particle size of 185 ± 0.5nm with an entrapment efficiency of 95.2 ± 0.09%. Using chitosan, a naturally occurring polymer, the ideal oxiconazole nanoparticle composition was further transformed into a gel formulation. The developed topical nano gel formulation underwent additional evaluations for antifungal, drug release, permeability, and nano gel characterization. The developed oxiconazole nanogel formulation had the ideal drug content, pH, viscosity, and spreadability. The results of the medication release and penetration investigation showed that Oxiconazole released slowly (74.06 ± 0.5%) with significantly enhanced permeation across Franz diffusion cell using membrane. The antifungal ex-vivo study and skin irritancy study of nanogel results would conclude higher activity of oxiconazole nano gel. According to the overall analysis of the data, oxiconazole nanogel is the best delivery method for treating fungal infections on the skin.

Optimization In-vitro Evaluation and Scratch Wound Healing Assay of Hexacosane Topical Gel for Wound Healing.

The compounds hexocosane, a sterol hydrocarbon identified in the dichloromethane extract and isolated from marine sponges of the genus Agelas. Hexocosane possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, they promote cell proliferation and angiogenesis, facilitating tissue regeneration and repair. This multifaceted approach makes this secondary metabolite a promising candidate for developing advanced wound care therapies that effectively address both infection control and wound healing. On the basis of viscosity, in-vitro release, and skin retention, optimal gel formulations were developed with hexocosane (1%) to achieve the best results. A response surface methodology Box-Behnken design was applied on three factors and three levels [carbopol 940 (1, 1.25 and 1.5%), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) (1,1.5 and 1.2%), and propylene glycol (0–1–1.5% and 1–2%, respectively] using three factors and three levels. In order to assess the spreadability and viscosity, a glass slide and a Brookfield viscometer were used. An assay was conducted to determine how topical gel affects wound healing. The optimization study of the gel formulation, involving variations in adhesive polymer (Carbopol 940), release retarding polymer (HPMC K4M), and penetration enhancer (Surfactant), has identified three noteworthy formulations (F4, F8 &amp; F14). Each formulation is characterized by specific attributes such as viscosity, in-vitro drug release, and skin retention. All samples were found to elicit significant wound healing efficacy as evidenced from the representative photomicrographs. The maximum efficacy was elicited by formulation (F4) with 100 mg drug at the time duration of 36 hours.

Ionic Liquid-Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Organogel Containing Cyclosporine A for the Effective Treatment of Psoriasis.

The dermal delivery of peptide therapeutics that are of high molecular weight is a challenge. Cyclosporine A (CsA) is a cyclic undecapeptide with poor aqueous solubility and high molecular weight (1202 Da) indicated for psoriasis. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of ionic liquids mixed with the Pluronic F127 matrix in skin permeation of CsA and its efficacy in psoriasis treatment. Choline and geranic acid (CAGE) ionic liquids in a 1:2 molar ratio were mixed with Pluronic F127 (22.7%) and PEG 400 (45%) to prepare an organogel formulation. The CsA-loaded CAGE (CsA-CAGE) and CAGE-Pluronic F127 gels (CsA-CAGE-P gel) were characterized for physical and rheological characteristics. The skin transport studies showed that free CsA did not permeate across the excised porcine skin after 48 h. The amount of CsA permeated across the oleic acid (0.25% v/v) and palmitic acid (0.25% w/v) cotreated skin was found to be 244 ± 4 and 1236 ± 17 μg/cm2, respectively. The application of CsA-CAGE and CsA-CAGE-P gel enhanced CsA flux by 110- and 135-fold, respectively, compared with the control. The thermal analysis and biophysical studies changed the barrier property of the skin significantly (p < 0.05) after incubation with CAGE and CAGE-P gel. The pharmacokinetic studies in the rat model showed that topical application of CsA-CAGE-P gel provided 2.6- and 1.9-fold greater C max and AUC0-t, respectively, compared to the control group. In vitro-in vivo level A correlations were established with R 2 values of 0.991 and 0.992 for both linear and polynomial equations for the CsA-CAGE-P gel formulation using the Wagner-Nelson method. The topical application of CsA-CAGE-P gel (10 mg/kg) on an imiquimod-induced plaque psoriatic model reduced the area of the psoriasis and severity index (PASI) score significantly for erythema and scaling, reversing the changes to skin thickness, blood flow rate, and transepidermal water loss. Together, CAGE-Pluronic F127 organogel was developed as an effective topical formulation for the local and systemic delivery of CsA for the treatment of psoriasis.

Development and Evaluation of Herbal Antiacne Gel Formulation Using Curcumin Phytosomes .

Acne vulgaris is a persistent inflammatory condition affecting the pilosebaceous unit that manifests as various skin lesions, including papules, comedones, cysts, pustules, and abscesses. Curcumin, extracted from Curcuma longa rhizomes (Family: Zingiberaceae), is identified for its potent antioxidant, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to develop an herbal antiacne gel formulation incorporating bioactive curcumin in phytosomes. The formulated gel was evaluated for several physicochemical properties, including pH, spreadability, viscosity, drug content, etc. Additionally, the optimized gel formulation was tested for its in-vitro antiacne action against Propionibacterium acnes. Results showed that developed antiacne gel containing curcumin phytosomes was comparable to a commercially available antiacne product. Stability studies demonstrated that the formulated product remained stable for three months under accelerated stability conditions as per ICH guidelines.