Exploring the potential of nanocarriers in antipsoriatic therapeutics

Abstract

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by erythematous, scaly patches on the skin. It can be effectively managed with topical therapies since they deliver drugs to target sites of disease efficiently and can minimize systemic side-effects while ensuring high patient compliance. However, conventional topical formulations are ineffective in treating psoriasis due to their poor percutaneous penetration and inability to reach deeper layers of the skin. Thus, it is important to explore new approaches for managing psoriasis safely and effectively while also maintaining patient compliance without compromising safety. Over the last few decades, a variety of nanocarriers have been extensively investigated as a new approach to delivering drugs to the skin that are effective against psoriasis. These nanocarriers are notable for their therapeutic effectiveness, increased localization of medication in the skin, and reduced side-effects. The purpose of this review is to explore the recent advances in polymer-based, lipid-based, metallic, and microneedle-based novel nanoformulations of antipsoriatic drugs. There have been detailed discussions about several nanocarrier systems including nanoemulsions, liposomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, ethosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, micelles, gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles, and microneedles. In a nutshell, nanoformulations are considered a promising avenue for psoriasis treatment since they offer better penetration, targeted delivery, and enhanced safety and efficacy.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Psoriasis
• pathogenesis
• nanotherapeutics
• liposome
• hydrogel
• metallic nanoparticles

Acknowledgments

The authors are thankful to the Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, for providing all necessary facilities related to the present work (Manuscript Communication Number: IU/R &D/2021- MCN0001306).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).