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Surface-Modified Multifunctional Thymol-Loaded Biodegradable Nanoparticles for Topical Acne Treatment
Camila Folle1, Natalia Díaz-Garrido2,3,4, Elena Sánchez-López1,5
1Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
Pharmaceutics
|September 28, 2021
Summary
Novel surface-functionalized nanoparticles loaded with thymol (TH-NPs) show enhanced anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing properties for acne treatment. These TH-NPs effectively penetrate skin and combat Cutibacterium acnes, offering a promising therapeutic approach.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition driven by Cutibacterium acnes.
- Thymol possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but requires effective delivery for topical application.
- Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles offer a versatile platform for drug delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize surface-functionalized thymol-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (TH-NPs) for topical acne treatment.
- To evaluate the physicochemical properties, skin penetration, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cellular activities of TH-NPs.
- To investigate the impact of surface functionalization on TH-NP therapeutic efficacy.
Main Methods:
- TH-NPs were prepared using the solvent evaporation method with various surface functionalization strategies.
- Physicochemical parameters, short-term stability, and ex vivo skin penetration in pig skin models were assessed.
- In vitro studies included antimicrobial activity against Cutibacterium acnes, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing assays in HaCat cells.
Main Results:
- TH-NPs exhibited suitable physicochemical properties and stability.
- Follicular skin penetration was observed, independent of surface charge, with enhanced antioxidant capacity.
- TH-NPs demonstrated improved antimicrobial activity against Cutibacterium acnes and were non-toxic to HaCat cells.
- Significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing activities were observed, influenced by surface modifications, indicating synergistic effects.
Conclusions:
- Surface-modified TH-NPs are effective for topical delivery, enhancing thymol's therapeutic potential against acne.
- TH-NPs demonstrate promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing capabilities.
- These nanoparticles represent a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for managing acne infection and inflammation.
