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 & 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.
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