Hydrocortisone-loaded poly(ε-caprolactone) nanoparticles for atopic dermatitis treatment

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition, particularly affecting infants.
• Current treatments for AD often involve corticosteroids with potential long-term side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize hydrocortisone-loaded poly(ε-caprolactone) nanoparticles (NPs) for enhanced atopic dermatitis treatment.
• To achieve prolonged drug release and minimize side effects associated with conventional hydrocortisone therapy.

Main Methods:

• Poly(ε-caprolactone) NPs were prepared using a modified solvent displacement method.
• Characterization included size, zeta potential, morphology, entrapment efficiency (EE), FT-IR spectrometry, and in vitro permeation studies using Franz cells.
• In vitro toxicology assessments were performed on the nanosystem.

Main Results:

• The hydrocortisone-loaded NPs exhibited increased size, homogenous distribution, and negative surface charge, with an entrapment efficiency of approximately 62%.
• In vitro studies demonstrated controlled hydrocortisone release over time and confirmed system stability for one week.
• Permeation studies showed significant differences between encapsulated and free hydrocortisone, and in vitro toxicity tests indicated no adverse effects from encapsulation.

Conclusions:

• Encapsulation of hydrocortisone within PCL NPs facilitates controlled drug delivery for atopic dermatitis.
• This nanocarrier system shows potential for faster disease control and reduced corticosteroid-related side effects in long-term applications.