Development and characterization of nanostructured lipid carriers using Brazilian red propolis in photoprotective formulations

• Grant number: 18/16172-9
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Effective date (Start): March 01, 2019
• Effective date (End): September 30, 2020
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal researcher: Priscyla Daniely Marcato Gaspari
• Grantee: Bianca Bueno Fontanezi Dias Mello
• Home Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 17/04138-8 - Attainment of chemical, analytical, biological, pharmacological and technological studies to fill the gaps on the development of Brazilian propolis sector, AP.TEM

Abstract

The solar radiation (SR) incident on the skin may causes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), harmful effects to the DNA with mutagenic dimer production, inflammation and activation of signal transduction pathways which may be determinant for the development of photoaging and skin cancer. Due to a better understanding of the effects of SR on the skin, the seeking for more complete UV filters, which can reduce the damage caused by ultraviolet A and B radiation, visible light and infrared rays, was initiated. In this context, the use of antioxidants in photoprotective formulations has great importance in the combat against EROS, with special emphasis on the use of natural compounds that have lower side effects. Brazilian red propolis (BRP) is described by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor and photoprotective effects and can be a great ally in the combat against the damages generated by SR. However, due to unfavorable physicochemical characteristics, strong odor and low penetration of its bioactives in the skin, its use in topical formulations is restricted. Thus, the use of nanotechnology becomes an ally to overcome these limitations and enable the encapsulation of the BRP extract. In this project, a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) containing BRP will be developed through the hot emulsion method followed by sonication. The NLC-BRP will be characterized in its size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, morphology and thermal analysis, with subsequent determination of encapsulation efficiency and evaluation of biological activities (antioxidant, antiallergic and anti-inflammatory). The NLC will be incorporated in an Emugel with or without UV filters and the determination of the SPF will be carried out and the rheological, phototoxic, release profile and skin permeation properties will be evaluated. Thus, the aim of this project is the encapsulation of BRP for cosmetic applications combining all the benefits of BRP and NLC for the development of a safe topical formulation with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and photoprotective action. (AU)