Design and Evaluation of Microemulsion-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Biofilm-Based Infection in Burns

Area of Science:

• Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine
• Dermatology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Burn injuries compromise the skin's barrier function, increasing susceptibility to bacterial infections.
• Burn wounds provide an environment conducive to biofilm formation, complicating treatment and delaying healing.
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a primary pathogen in burn wound infections and biofilm development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate a microemulsion (ME) for topical application to treat bacterial burn infections.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a tea tree oil-based microemulsion against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• To assess the microemulsion's potential in preventing biofilm formation in burn wounds.

Main Methods:

• Microemulsion formulation using tea tree oil, Tween 80, transcutol, and water.
• Pseudo ternary phase diagrams were utilized to define the formulation's design space.
• Characterization included particle size analysis and in vitro drug release studies.
• Inhibition of bacterial growth and biofilm formation was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Optimized microemulsions were successfully formulated with particle sizes within the 10-300 nm range.
• In vitro release studies indicated an immediate release profile for the microemulsion.
• The prepared microemulsion demonstrated significant capability in inhibiting both bacterial growth and biofilm formation.

Conclusions:

• The developed microemulsion formulation is suitable for topical application in managing bacterial burn infections.
• Tea tree oil-based microemulsions show potential as an effective strategy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms.
• This formulation offers a promising therapeutic option for improving burn wound healing outcomes.