Low energy methods for the obtainment of nanocarriers for topical delivery of antioxidant peptides and proteins

• Grant number: 22/16767-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2023
• End date: January 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Luciana Biagini Lopes
• Grantee: Mariana de Sousa Silva
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 18/13877-1 - Nanocarriers for localized treatment and chemoprevention of breast tumors, AP.JP2

Abstract

The skin is the main barrier of our body and ages chronologically mainly due to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In excess, these species damage the dermal extracellular matrix. High exposure to ultraviolet rays and pollution increases the production of ROS and the cutaneous enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms naturally available to deal with these insults and neutralize ROS are not sufficient, leading to premature aging of the skin tissue. Therefore, supplementation of the skin with antioxidant systems to reduce the oxidative stress of the skin, neutralize these molecules and preserve the function of this organ is essential. Among these systems, the recombinant enzyme glutathione peroxidase (rGPx) stands out. It can be obtained by a biotechnological strategy and has shown promising activity in the reduction of ROS in the skin in preliminary studies. In this project, we propose the development of microemulsions containing cutaneous permeation enhancers for topical delivery of the protein. In addition to its structural versatility, microemulsions can be obtained using low energy methods, which help to preserve the stability of the protein. These nanocarriers will have their structure characterized by dynamic light scattering, electrical conductivity and rheological characterization assays and their influence on skin permeability and enzyme stability will be studied. Through this work, it is expected the development of stable nanocarriers, capable of incorporating peptides and proteins with innovative potential for skin care.