Formulation and In Vitro Evaluationof a Nano- Bioadhesive Herbal Gel for Enhanced Anti-psoriatic Therapy
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Abstract
Background: Chronic psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by excessive
keratinocyte proliferation and persistent inflammation. Traditional treatments such as systemic agents and
corticosteroids work, but they can have side effects when used over long-term treatment. Aloe vera (Aloe
barbadensis Miller) has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, but
these properties are restricted by its low penetration and retention in the skin. Objective: The present study was
designed to formulate and evaluate an Aloe vera-loaded nano-bioadhesive gel for the improvement of topical drug
delivery and formulation performance for potential psoriasis management. Methods: Nanoparticles containing
Aloe vera were synthesized by the nanoprecipitation method and then encapsulated in a bioadhesive gel made of
Carbopol 934 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The physicochemical properties, nanoparticle characteristics,
in vitro drug release profile, bioadhesive strength, and in vitro biocompatibility of the formulation were assessed.
All experimental results are presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Results: The optimized formulation
exhibited a pH of 6.12 ± 0.08, viscosity of 5420 ± 85 cP, spreadability of 7.8 ± 0.3 cm, and drug content of 96.8
± 1.2%. The nanoparticles demonstrated a mean particle size of 182.4 ± 6.3 nm, zeta potential of −28.7 ± 1.4 mV,
and encapsulation efficiency of 84.5 ± 2.1%. The nano-bioadhesive gel exhibited strong bioadhesion (31.4 ± 1.1 g)
and sustained drug release, achieving 93.4% cumulative release after 24 h. The MTT assay with HaCaT Cells
demonstrated high cellular compatibility, with cell viability remaining above 88% across all tested concentrations.
Conclusion: The developed Aloe vera-loaded nano-bioadhesive gel exhibited desirable physicochemical
properties, sustained drug release, excellent bioadhesive properties, and good in vitro biocompatibility. The results
suggest that the formulation is a potential topical delivery system for herbal therapeutics. However, more in vivo
and clinical studies are needed to confirm its therapeutic effectiveness and clinical use in psoriasis treatment.
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