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Enhanced topical antimicrobial delivery for improved skin antisepsis
Madeline Berrow1, Nichola J Starr1, David J Scurr1
1School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, United Kingdom.
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
|March 22, 2026
Summary
This study validates a porcine skin model for testing chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) delivery. Novel enhancers like R6 polyarginine significantly improved CHX antisepsis, potentially reducing surgical site infections (SSI).
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Topical chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) is recommended to prevent surgical site infections (SSI).
- CHX has poor skin penetration, limiting its effectiveness against skin microbes.
- Improved CHX delivery is needed to enhance skin antisepsis and reduce SSI risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate an in vitro porcine skin model for assessing CHX permeation.
- To evaluate the efficacy of novel compounds in enhancing CHX skin permeation.
- To assess the safety and antisepsis improvement of CHX formulations.
Main Methods:
- Validation of an in vitro porcine skin permeation model against human skin.
- Analysis of CHX distribution using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
- Testing permeation enhancers: R6 polyarginine, glycolic acid, and Kolliphor® HS15.
Main Results:
- The in vitro porcine model accurately reflects CHX permeation through human skin.
- R6 polyarginine, glycolic acid, and Kolliphor® HS15 significantly enhanced CHX delivery through the epidermis.
- Enhanced formulations improved skin antisepsis without increased cytotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- The validated porcine model is suitable for evaluating CHX permeation enhancers.
- R6 polyarginine, glycolic acid, and Kolliphor® HS15 show promise for improving CHX efficacy.
- Novel CHX formulations could reduce surgical site infection rates.
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