Curcumin-loaded gelatin ethosomal gel: A novel approach for anti-inflammatory efficacy

The research focuses on enhancing the delivery of curcumin's potent anti-inflammatory properties through a novel approach using a curcumin-loaded gelatine ethosomal gel. Curcumin, known for its therapeutic potential, faces challenges due to poor solubility and bioavailability. The method involved dissolving curcumin, phospholipids, and gelatin to form ethosomes within the gelatin matrix using sonication. Various parameters were evaluated including vesicle size, morphology, entrapment efficiency, drug permeation, stability, and anti-inflammatory activity. The optimized curcumin gelatine ethosomes effectively encapsulated the drug, achieving an entrapment efficiency of 89.52% ​± ​0.1% and substantial drug loading capacity ranging from 75.75% ​± ​0.3% to 85.64% ​± ​0.1%. The formulation exhibited stability with a small vesicle size of 122.08 ​nm, a zeta potential of -36.2 ​mV indicating good stability, and spherical ethosome morphology. TEM images confirmed uniform drug distribution within the ethosome without precipitation or unwanted aggregates. The gel exhibited suitable characteristics for topical application such as clear texture, neutral odor, appropriate pH (5.1-5.6), and viscosity (26,000-58,000 ​Pa ​s). It also showed excellent spreadability, homogeneity, minimal irritancy, and pseudo plastic behaviour with sustained drug release (up to 94%) over 24 ​h. Stability testing and acute toxicity studies confirmed the safety and efficacy of the gel, while anti-inflammatory activity was demonstrated through carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. The findings suggest that this curcumin-loaded gelatine ethosomal gel holds promise in revolutionizing inflammation therapy by improving efficacy, patient compliance, stability, controlled release, and bioavailability, thereby paving the way for innovative approaches in inflammation management.