Eutectic-based liposome as a potential delivery system of paeonol

Area of Science:

• Green chemistry and materials science
• Pharmaceutical sciences and drug delivery
• Nanotechnology and formulation science

Background:

• Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are emerging green solvents with advantageous properties for various applications.
• Therapeutic deep eutectic solvents (THEDES) offer a novel approach to improve active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) solubility, permeation, and bioactivity.
• Paeonol, a compound with therapeutic potential, often faces challenges with solubility and bioavailability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and characterize a new THEDES system for paeonol using lauric acid.
• To evaluate the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of the novel paeonol-based THEDES.
• To develop and assess a liposomal formulation of the paeonol-THEDES for enhanced drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of a paeonol-lauric acid THEDES at a 1:1 molar ratio.
• Assessment of THEDES physicochemical properties, including aqueous solubility.
• Evaluation of bioactivity compared to pure paeonol.
• Preparation and characterization of THEDES-loaded liposomes, including size and encapsulation efficiency analysis.

Main Results:

• The paeonol-lauric acid THEDES exhibited improved water solubility compared to pure paeonol.
• The THEDES demonstrated comparable bioactivity to the parent paeonol.
• THEDES-loaded liposomes achieved an average size of approximately 120 nm with an 84% encapsulation efficiency.
• The liposomal formulation displayed good stability over the experimental duration.

Conclusions:

• The developed paeonol-lauric acid THEDES represents a viable strategy for enhancing paeonol solubility and delivery.
• THEDES formulation, particularly within liposomes, shows significant potential for effective API delivery systems.
• This study highlights THEDES as a promising platform for overcoming drug delivery challenges for poorly soluble compounds.