Zeitschrift für metabolisches Syndrom

Polymeric nanospheres for topical delivery of adapalene

Abstract

Bozena Michniak-Kohn

Hair follicles are considered as alternative pathway for topical and transdermal delivery. They can contribute to absorption and uptake of large molecules and nanoparticles. Therefore, Nano carriers can potentially be an effective drug delivery system targeting at hair follicle-related diseases, such as acne and alopecia1. Adapalene is a third generation retinoid and a highly lipophilic drug (logP=8.2), which is commercially available in forms of topical gel and lotion for treatment of mild to moderate acne2. In these commercial products adapalene exists as microcrystals dispersed in the formulations. Skin irritation has been reported with topical adapalene products due to direct contact of adapalene microcrystals containing acid groups (-COOH) with stratum corneum (SC), as well as presence of alcohols and surfactants in the formulation3. We have developed a platform technology to encapsulate hydrophobic drugs in tyrosinederivednanospheres (TyroSphere) and to facilitate skin delivery4. In this study, the applicability of TyroSphere for targeted delivery of adapalene into hair follicles is assessed.