Topical and cutaneous delivery using nanosystems

Abstract

The goal of topical and cutaneous delivery is to deliver therapeutic and other substances to a desired target site in the skin at appropriate doses to achieve a safe and efficacious outcome. Normally, however, when the stratum corneum is intact and the skin barrier is uncompromised, this is limited to molecules that are relatively lipophilic, small and uncharged, thereby excluding many potentially useful therapeutic peptides, proteins, vaccines, gene fragments or drug-carrying particles. In this review we will describe how nanosystems are being increasingly exploited for topical and cutaneous delivery, particularly for these previously difficult substances. This is also being driven by the development of novel technologies, which include minimally invasive delivery systems and more precise fabrication techniques. While there is a vast array of nanosystems under development and many undergoing advanced clinical trials, relatively few have achieved full translation to clinical practice. This slow uptake may be due, in part, to the need for a rigorous demonstration of safety in these new nanotechnologies. Some of the safety aspects associated with nanosystems will be considered in this review.

Evaluation of Quantum Dot Skin Penetration in Porcine Skin: Effect of Age and Anatomical Site of Topical Application

“…This has positive implications for safety and toxicity concerns associated with nanoparticle exposure. However, the use of nanoparticulate delivery systems, particularly for targeted delivery of biologics for dermatological applications could be of significant benefit [1]. This development requires a convenient, suitable model.…”

“…Nanomaterials are widely used for a range of pharmaceutical and industrial purposes, with considerable development in the area of topical and cutaneous drug delivery to the skin [1]. Colloidal nanocarrier-based systems, such as nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers and flexible nanovesicles have been extensively investigated for the skin delivery of therapeutic and cosmetic compounds [1].…”

“…Colloidal nanocarrier-based systems, such as nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers and flexible nanovesicles have been extensively investigated for the skin delivery of therapeutic and cosmetic compounds [1]. In addition, nanoparticles composed of zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium dioxide are applied as sunscreen products, with the intention that the nanoparticles remain on the skin surface thereby protecting it from sun damage.…”

Formulation challenges for 21st century topical and transdermal delivery systems

“…In this context, nanocomposites have been studied for epidermal, dermal and systemic delivery; the treatment of dermatological conditions is most promising since it allows for targeted delivery to skin structures and the avoidance of off-target effects. Current efforts in topical drug delivery are focused on the development of nano-sized and micro-structured drug delivery systems [10]. Nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymeric nanoparticles and micelles have proven their ability to deliver molecules to cutaneous tissue and notably target hair follicles [10].…”

“…Current efforts in topical drug delivery are focused on the development of nano-sized and micro-structured drug delivery systems [10]. Nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymeric nanoparticles and micelles have proven their ability to deliver molecules to cutaneous tissue and notably target hair follicles [10]. However, the underlying mechanisms are still unknown: although it is highly unlikely that intact nanocarriers are able to cross intact stratum corneum this is still a matter of debate.…”