Topical Tinospora cordifolia BSA Hydrogel Formulation Attenuates UVB-Induced Skin Inflammation in Golden Hamsters

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation induces oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to skin damage and related disorders. Tinospora cordifolia, a medicinal plant rich in bioactive phytoconstituents with reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, was used in this study to develop bovine serum albumin (BSA)-based hydrogels encapsulating aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of T. cordifolia. The protective effects of these hydrogels were evaluated against UVB-induced skin inflammation in golden hamsters. The formulations were characterized using rheology, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess physicochemical properties. Rheological analysis confirmed the hydrogel's viscoelastic nature. FTIR spectra showed successful encapsulation of the extract, indicated by interactions of characteristic functional groups. SEM imaging revealed a porous network structure of the hydrogel, indicating successful formation of the BSA-based matrix. Biological efficacy was assessed by measuring skin edema, antioxidant activity (SOD and catalase), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). Histology showed reduced epidermal thickening, inflammation, and tissue damage in treated skin. The hydrogels significantly reduced UVB-induced edema, increased antioxidant enzyme levels, and decreased cytokine levels. Western blot analysis showed downregulation of NF-κB, COX-2, and p53, and upregulation of Bcl-2. These findings suggest that T. cordifolia-loaded hydrogels offer a promising natural formulation for alleviating UVB-induced skin inflammation and oxidative damage.