Development, characterization and evaluation of baicalein loaded niosome and niosomal gel

Abstract

This study focused on the formulation, in-vitro characterization, and evaluation of toxicity, antioxidant activity and skin penetration capabilities of baicalein-loaded niosome/niosomal gel as a dermal antioxidant. Baicalein-loaded niosomes were prepared using the thin film hydration method. Particular emphasis was placed on assessing the effects of different types of non-ionic surfactants (Tween60, Tween80) and various chloroform-to-methanol ratios (9:1, 7:3, 5:5 v/v) on formulation characteristics including particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug release. Cytotoxicity of different concentratons of baicalein and baicalein-loaded niosome/niosomal gel was evaluated on the L929 cells using the 3-(4,5-dimethyldiazol-2-yl)2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT) assay. F2 coded niosome, containing Tween60 and a chloroform:methanol ratio of 7:3 v/v, was identified as the optimal formulation due to its excellent encapsulation efficiency, small particle size, narrow size distribution, optimal zeta potential, and ability to achieve the highest and sustained release. F2-gel was prepared using Carbopol980, and its rheological properties were also examined. Cell permeation properties of both the niosome and the niosomal gel through L929 cells were investigated. Antioxidant efficacy of the baicalein from both formulations permeated through cells was assessed using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH●) and (2,2-Azino-bis3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)(ABTS●+) assays. The study demonstrated that surfactant type and solvent system used have a significant impact on the overall characteristics of niosomes. In conclusion, the high permeation of baicalein from both niosome and niosomal gel through cells, along with their strong capacity to scavenge DPPH● and ABTS●+ radicals, demonstrates that baicalein-loaded niosome/niosomal gel exhibit a potent antioxidant effect even in the deeper layers of the skin.

Keywords

• Niosome
• niosomal gel
• baicalein
• antioxidant effect
• drug carrier system
• controlled release system
• anti-aging

References

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