Hydrogel-based drug delivery system designed for chemotherapy-induced alopecia

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a frequent adverse effect of anticancer treatments.
• Current treatments like scalp cooling caps are costly, uncomfortable, and yield variable results.
• There is a need for improved, patient-friendly methods to prevent CIA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel bioengineered hydrogel for topical application to prevent CIA.
• To assess the physical, chemical, and drug release properties of Lidocaine (LID) and adrenalone (ADR)-loaded hydrogels.
• To investigate the in vivo efficacy of the hydrogels in reducing scalp blood flow.

Main Methods:

• Characterization of hydrogels using electron microscopy, rheology, and optical analyses.
• In vitro drug release studies to determine release kinetics.
• In vivo studies in murine models and Flemish giant rabbits to assess drug absorption and cutaneous vasoconstriction.

Main Results:

• Hydrogels exhibited suitable porosity, rheology, thickness, and swelling for topical use.
• Drug release followed a biphasic pattern, influenced by hydrogel thickness.
• Topical application significantly reduced blood vessel diameter in rabbit skin (~39% for LID, ~21% for ADR), with minimal systemic drug absorption in mice.

Conclusions:

• The developed hydrogels demonstrate potential as an effective and clinically translatable method for preventing chemotherapy-induced alopecia.
• The mechanism of action involves cutaneous vasoconstriction, similar to existing therapies but with improved delivery.
• Further research may lead to a more comfortable and effective solution for patients undergoing chemotherapy.