In this study, liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCN) have been proposed as new carrier for topical delivery of finasteride (FNS) in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. To evaluate the potential of this nanocarrier, FNS-loaded LCN was prepared by ultrasonication method and characterized for size, shape, in vitro release, and skin permeation-retention properties. The particle size ranged from 153.8 to 170.2 nm with a cubical shape and exhibited controlled release profile with less than 20% of the drug released in the first 24 h. The release profile was significantly altered with addition of different additives. Formulation with lower monoolein exhibited higher skin permeation with a flux rate of 0.061±0.005 μg cm(-2) h(-1) in 24 h. The permeation however, significantly increased with glycerol, propylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol 400, while it declined for the addition of oleic acid. A similar trend was observed with skin retention study. In conclusion, FNS-loaded LCN could be advocated as a viable alternative for oral administration of the drug.

A green way of synthesizing double metal cyanide (DMC) catalysts for the ring opening polymerization of propylene oxide has been developed by using environmentally friendly and nontoxic lactate esters as complexing agents (CAs). The total amount of CA consumed in the catalyst preparation procedure can also be greatly reduced by combining with co-complexing agents bearing polyether backbones. The DMC catalysts produce highly pure polymers in high activity, enough to avoid labor, energy, and time-consuming catalyst removal procedures.