Optimization and In-Vitro Characterization of Tetrahydrocurcumin Loaded Niosome for Psoriasis Management

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Nanotechnology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) exhibits poor solubility and permeability, limiting its topical therapeutic efficacy for skin conditions like psoriasis.
• Developing advanced drug delivery systems is crucial to overcome these limitations and enhance treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and optimize niosomes encapsulating tetrahydrocurcumin for improved topical delivery.
• To evaluate the physicochemical properties, stability, and release kinetics of the optimized niosomal formulation.

Main Methods:

• Niosomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method with Span 60 and cholesterol as independent variables.
• Box-Behnken design was employed to optimize formulation parameters, with particle size, entrapment efficiency, and drug loading as dependent variables.
• Physicochemical characterization included particle size analysis, entrapment efficiency, and drug loading determination.

Main Results:

• The optimized niosomal formulation achieved a particle size of 116.9 nm, 94.7% entrapment efficiency, and 85.23% drug loading.
• Niosomes exhibited first-order release kinetics and demonstrated stability at 4°C and 25°C for three months.
• A desirability score of 0.896 indicated a well-optimized formulation.

Conclusions:

• The optimized niosomal formulation successfully enhanced tetrahydrocurcumin's solubility, permeability, and stability.
• This formulation holds significant potential for effective topical treatment of psoriasis.
• Future research will focus on incorporating these niosomes into in situ gels for enhanced application and conducting in vivo validation.