Preparation, Characterization, and Release Study of Tacrolimus-Loaded Liquid Crystalline Nanoparticles

Abstract

The use of liquid crystalline nanoparticles is a novel approach in the field of controlled drug delivery. Tacrolimus, being a highly lipophilic drug, is easily incorporated in the hydrophobic core of these nanoparticles, which are prepared using monoolein, distilled water, and varying ratios of poloxamer 407. Characterization, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, particle size, and entrapment efficiency analysis suggested the formation of cubosomes with a particle size ranging from 140 to 155 nm and entrapment level of tacrolimus as high as 99% or above. In vitro release studies, revealed a sustained release of tacrolimus for 2 weeks, with a high stability profile of nanoparticles and incorporated drug during the storage period. Therefore, it suggests the possible use of tacrolimus-loaded formulation for intradermal delivery can be useful in the treatment of locally affecting autoimmune skin disease such as psoriasis.

Keywords:

• Lipase
• liquid crystalline nanoparticles
• monoolein
• poloxamer
• tacrolimus

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by BK 21 funded by the Korean Government.

Notes

Each value represents mean ±standard deviation (n = 3).

Each value represents mean ± standard deviation (n = 3).

PDI = polydispersity index.