Development of microneedles systems containing Pterodon pubescens Benth extract and Cordia verbenacea DC essential oil, individually and in association, with anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive potential.

• Grant number: 24/02412-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: November 01, 2024
• End date: February 29, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmacognosy
• Principal Investigator: Mary Ann Foglio
• Grantee: Ana Clara Brito Maria
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/08214-7 - Development of microneedle patches containing Pterodon pubescens Benth extract and Cordia verbenacea DC essential oil with anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive potential, BE.EP.DR

Abstract

Despite being a natural response of the immune system, the inflammatory process may be responsible for the cause or worsening of several syndroms and/or diseases. Nociception is also related to inflammation, since the sensation of pain can be caused by compression of sensory nerves due to edema and the production of inflammatory mediators. The terapeutic approach used in both cases generally involves the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, however, their use can lead to serious adverse effects. Therefore, it is necessary to search for alternatives of treatment, such as the use of medicinal plants. In this context, the species Pteroson pubescens Benth and Cordia verbenacea DC stands out, both native to Brazil and with scientific publiactions demonstrating their anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities. Studies developed by Dr. Mary Ann Foglio show that the association between P. pubescens and C. verbenacea is a promising path due to the existing synergism, which resulted in a filing of a patent of a formulation for the treatment of acute and chronic musculoskeletal disorders assotiated with pain and/or inflammation. Therefore, the objective of this project is to develop microneedle patches containing ethanol extract of P. pubescens and C. verbenacea essential oil, individually and in association; develop, based on the existing patent, gel formulations using the extract and the EO, individually and in association; and compare the formulations using experimental animal models of nociception.