Biodegradable Ingredient-Based Emulgel Loaded with Ketoprofen Nanoparticles.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Biodegradable nanocarriers are crucial for mimicking the extracellular environment in arthritis treatment.
• Chitosan and chondroitin sulfate offer biocompatible and biodegradable properties for nanocarrier design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and characterize biocompatible, biodegradable ketoprofen-loaded chitosan-chondroitin sulfate (CHS-CS) nanoparticles.
• To evaluate the transdermal application potential using a natural argan oil-based emulgel.

Main Methods:

• Nanoparticles were formed via polyelectrolyte complex formation between CHS and CS at pH 5.0.
• Ketoprofen was loaded into the nanoparticles, which were then incorporated into an argan oil emulgel.
• Particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and drug release kinetics were analyzed.

Main Results:

• CHS-CS nanoparticles were successfully formulated with sizes ranging from 300-500 nm.
• Encapsulation efficiency exceeded 76%, with 77% ketoprofen release at pH 7.4 within 72 hours via simple diffusion.
• The argan oil emulgel significantly enhanced ketoprofen skin penetration compared to a marketed gel (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Biodegradable CHS-CS nanoparticles loaded with ketoprofen are effectively delivered via the transdermal route using a natural argan oil emulgel.
• The formulation demonstrates synergistic anti-inflammatory potential and improved skin penetration for arthritis management.
• Natural ingredients in the emulgel enhance formulation viscosity and drug permeation.