Analytical tools and evaluation strategies for nanostructured lipid carrier-based topical delivery systems

ABSTRACT

Introduction

The inception of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) proved to be a revolutionary step toward the treatment of dermatological disorders. To uncover its true potential, it is imperative that the system be characterized and evaluated comprehensively.

Areas covered

The present review has been written to furnish an in-depth account of analytical tools and evaluation procedures under one roof. Besides discussing the challenges of topical delivery and benefits of NLCs, the paper elaborates on their physicochemical characterization. Further, in vitro evaluation of NLCs for dermatological benefits, followed by their evaluation in a hydrogel/cream base is covered. Lastly, disease-specific evaluation of NLC-based formulations is presented.

Expert opinion

The research endeavors for NLCs have largely focused on the fabrication of NLCs for different bioactives. However, scientific efforts should be aimed toward the lesser explored realm of NLCs, i.e. exploitation of analytical techniques, such as Parelectric spectroscopy, Electron Spin Resonance, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy. NLCs have been proven for their potential to foster the therapeutic modalities applicable to cutaneous disorders. More attention needs to be devoted to their evaluation for disease-specific parameters. The futuristic steps must involve clinical studies, to lay the path for their commercialization.

KEYWORDS:

• characterization
• colloidal carriers
• dermatological
• hydrogel
• in vitro
• in vivo
• nanoparticles
• skin

Article highlights

• NLCs represent the most extensively investigated colloidal carrier systems for cutaneous disorders.

• Complete characterization and evaluation of their dermatological benefits is crucial to realize their full potential.

• A number of microscopic, spectroscopic and thermal techniques are available to check the key physicochemical aspects affecting their in vivo performance.

• Disease- specific evaluation and demonstration of their safety for dermal application are the areas that warrant attention of the scientific community.

• The existing breach in the technological advancements in the field of NLC research and commercial success needs to be eliminated through immaculate execution of analytical and in vitro/in vivo evaluation strategies.

This box summarizes key points contained in the article.

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Reviewer disclosures

Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.