Development of novel biopolymer-based nanoparticles loaded cream for potential treatment of topical fungal infections. (3rd July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Khalid, Aimen; Ahmed, Naveed; Qindeel, Maimoona; Asad, Muhammad Imran; Khan, Gul Majid; ur.Rehman, Asim.
• Is Part Of: Drug development and industrial pharmacy. Volume 47:Number 7(2021)
• Page Start: 1090
• Page End: 1099
• Publication Date: 2021-07-03
• Subjects: Biocompatible -- chondroitin sulfate -- chitosan -- fluconazole -- nanoparticles -- dermatophytosis -- topical drug delivery; Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Periodicals; Pharmaceutical industry -- Periodicals; Drug Industry -- Periodicals; Technology, Pharmaceutical -- Periodicals; 615.05
• DOI: 10.1080/03639045.2021.1957914
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0363-9045

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: Biodegradable polymers are extensively used due to their efficient safety profiles. The aim of the current study was to fabricate, evaluate, and characterize biodegradable, biocompatible fluconazole (FLZ) loaded chitosan (CHS) chondroitin sulfate (CS) nanoparticles (NPs) for topical delivery. Polymers utilized in the formulation not only served as a carrier system but also aided in fighting with complex etiology of the disease due to their innate antifungal activities. Methods: NPs were prepared by the complex coacervation method, then were optimized for various parameters and subsequently loaded into a cream. Results: Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis showed spherical morphology of the NPs. Prepared NPs showed an average particle size in the range of 350–450 nm and an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 86%. The polydispersity index (PDI) was found to be 0.148 that showed a uniform distribution of NPs. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the absence of any electrostatic interaction between ingredients. In vitro drug release analyses exhibited a sustained release of the drug and higher antifungal activity than free FLZ. Ex vivo permeability and drug distribution in different skin layers ensured a site-specific delivery of the FLZ-NPs. As compared with free FLZ and other control groups, the prepared NPs also exhibited significantly higher antifungal activity against Candida albicans ( p < .01). Conclusion: It was concluded from the results that the FLZ-NPs laden cream could be a potential candidate for topical and site-specific delivery of the drug cargo for the potential treatment of fungal infections.