Formulation and evaluation of resveratrol loaded cubosomal nanoformulation for topical delivery
Aim: The aim of the study was to formulate, characterize, and evaluate the resveratrol-loaded cubosomes (RC) through topical application. Background: Resveratrol (RV) is a nutraceutical compound that has exciting pharmacological potential in different diseases including cancers. Many studies of resveratrol have been reported for anti-melanoma activity. Due to its low bioavailability, the activities of resveratrol are strongly limited. Hence, an approach with nanotechnology has been done to increase its activity through transdermal drug delivery. Objective: To formulate, characterize, and evaluate the resveratrol-loaded cubosomes (RC). To evaluate resveratrol-loaded cubosomal gel (RC-Gel) for its topical application. Methods: RC was formulated by homogenization technique and optimized using a 2-factor 3-level factorial design. Formulated RCs were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. Optimized RC was evaluated for in vitro release and stability study. Optimized RC was further formulated into cubosomal gel (RC-Gel) using carbopol and evaluated for drug permeation and deposition. Furthermore, developed RC-Gel was evaluated for its topical application using skin irritancy, toxicity, and in vivo local bioavailability studies. Results: The optimized RC indicated cubic-shaped structure with mean particle size, entrapment efficiency, and zeta potential were 113±2.36 nm, 85.07 ± 0.91%, and -27.40 ± 1.40 mV respectively. In vitro drug release of optimized RC demonstrated biphasic drug release with the diffusion-controlled release of resveratrol (RV) (87.20 ± 2.25%). The RC-Gel demonstrated better drug permeation and deposition in mice skin layers. The composition of RC-Gel has been proved non-irritant to the mice skin. In vivo local bioavailability study depicted the good potential of RC-Gel for skin localization. Conclusion: The RC nanoformulation proposes a promising drug delivery system for melanoma treatment simply through topical application.