Poloxamer-Based Mixed Micelles Loaded with Thymol or Eugenol for Topical Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Poloxamers are versatile polymers used as drug delivery systems.
• Eugenol and thymol possess antimicrobial properties.
• Developing efficient carrier systems is crucial for enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Poloxamers (P184, P188, P407) as carriers for eugenol and thymol.
• To evaluate the synergistic effects of mixed Poloxamers on micellar properties.
• To assess the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of the developed micelles.

Main Methods:

• Micellar parameter characterization (critical micelle concentration, surface adsorption).
• Dynamic light scattering for micelle size analysis.
• Mathematical modeling (Korsmeyer-Peppas, modified Gompertz) for release kinetics.
• Bacterial reduction assays and antibiofilm activity testing.

Main Results:

• Mixed Poloxamers (P188/P407) demonstrated synergistic effects with lower CMC and higher surface adsorption.
• Encapsulation of eugenol/thymol resulted in decreased micellar size.
• Poloxamer micelles showed significant bacteriostatic activity against S. aureus and E. coli, with prolonged effects for mixed micelles.
• High encapsulation efficiency (>90%) and antibiofilm activity were achieved.

Conclusions:

• Poloxamer mixed micelles are effective carriers for eugenol and thymol, enhancing their properties.
• The developed micelles possess potent antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities.
• This system offers an innovative approach for controlled release in topical applications.