Research Summary
In the present work, new highly biocompatible nanovesicles were developed using the polyanion sodium hyaluronate to form polymer-immobilized vesicles, referred to as hyalurosomes. Curcumin, at a high concentration, was loaded into hyalurosomes, and the physicochemical properties, along with in vitro and in vivo performances of the formulations, were compared to those of liposomes containing the same lipid and drug content. The vesicles were prepared by directly adding a dispersion containing the polysaccharide sodium hyaluronate and the polyphenol curcumin to a commercial mixture of soy phospholipids, thus avoiding the use of organic solvents.
An extensive study was carried out on the physicochemical features and properties of curcumin-loaded hyalurosomes and liposomes. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering showed that the vesicles were spherical, uni- or oligolamellar, and small in size, ranging from 112 to 220 nm.
The in vitro percutaneous curcumin delivery studies on intact skin demonstrated an improved ability of hyalurosomes to facilitate fast drug deposition throughout the skin. Both hyalurosomes and liposomes were found to be biocompatible, providing protection to in vitro human keratinocytes from oxidative stress damage and promoting tissue remodeling through cellular proliferation and migration. Moreover, in vivo tests underscored the effectiveness of curcumin-loaded hyalurosomes in counteracting 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol (TPA)-induced inflammation and injuries. This was evidenced by diminished edema formation, reduced myeloperoxidase activity, and extensive skin reepithelization.
Thanks to the one-step, environmentally friendly preparation method, component biocompatibility and safety, and good in vitro and in vivo performances, hyalurosomes appear as promising nanocarriers for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.
Keywords: Hyaluronic acid/Hyaluronan; phospholipid vesicles; polyphenols; skin inflammation; cell oxidative stress; wound healing.
<Access the full report below>