MCM-41 as a useful vector for rutin topical formulations: synthesis, characterization and testing

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Rutin possesses antioxidant properties but suffers from poor stability, limiting its use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
• Mesoporous silica materials like MCM-41 offer potential for encapsulating active compounds.
• Surface functionalization can modify the properties of silica-based drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize rutin inclusion complexes with MCM-41 silica.
• To investigate the impact of aminopropyl functionalization (NH₂-MCM-41) on rutin's properties.
• To evaluate the stability, skin penetration, and bioactivity of complexed rutin.

Main Methods:

• Preparation and characterization of rutin-MCM-41 and rutin-NH₂-MCM-41 inclusion complexes.
• Techniques used: X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), BET surface area analysis, Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.
• Ex vivo skin penetration studies using porcine skin.

Main Results:

• High inclusion of rutin within NH₂-MCM-41 pores was confirmed by XRD, TGA, and BET.
• FTIR spectroscopy detailed the molecular interactions between rutin and the functionalized silica surface.
• Rutin-NH₂-MCM-41 showed enhanced photostability against UV degradation and increased skin accumulation.
• Antioxidant activity was maintained, and metal-chelating activity was significantly increased.

Conclusions:

• Immobilization of rutin in aminopropyl silica (NH₂-MCM-41) significantly improves its photostability and skin accumulation.
• Functionalization of mesoporous silica is crucial for stabilizing organic molecules and enhancing their performance.
• Rutin-NH₂-MCM-41 complexes represent a promising approach for advanced topical formulations.