Nanocellulose-Based Film-Forming Hydrogels for Improved Outcomes in Atopic Skin

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Dermatology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
• Impaired skin barrier function is a hallmark of AD.
• Hydrogels offer potential as film-forming systems for AD treatment, providing a physical barrier.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel film-forming hydrogels for atopic dermatitis treatment.
• To incorporate betamethasone dipropionate (BDP) into hydrogel formulations.
• To evaluate the efficacy of nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC)-based hydrogels as a drug delivery system.

Main Methods:

• Development of hydrogels using nanocrystalline celluloses (NCCs) combined with alginate or pectin.
• Dissolution of betamethasone dipropionate (BDP) using a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) with Kolliphor® EL/Capryol® 90.
• Preparation of films via solvent evaporation and in vitro assessment of water retention capacity.

Main Results:

• Successfully developed NCC-based film-forming hydrogels.
• Achieved stable dissolution of BDP within the hydrogel matrix using SMEDDS.
• Demonstrated high water retention capacity of the hydrogel films in vitro.

Conclusions:

• NCC-based film-forming hydrogels are a promising drug delivery system for atopic dermatitis.
• These hydrogels provide a physical barrier and effectively deliver BDP.
• The developed system addresses the need for advanced therapeutic approaches in AD treatment.