Development of microneedle patches containing Pterodon pubescens Benth extract and Cordia verbenacea DC essential oil with anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive potential

• Grant number: 25/08214-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: March 10, 2026
• End date: November 09, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Mary Ann Foglio
• Grantee: Ana Clara Brito Maria
• Supervisor: Fabiana Volpe Zanutto
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
• Associated to the scholarship: 24/02412-9 - 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., BP.DR

Abstract

Despite being a natural response of the immune system, the inflammatory process may be responsible for the cause or worsening of several syndromes and/or diseases. Nociception is also related to inflammation, since the sensation of pain can be caused by compression of sensory nerves due to oedema and the production of inflammatory mediators. The therapeutic 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, the search for alternatives of treatment, such as the use of medicinal plants, is necessary. In this context, the species Pterodon pubescens Benth and Cordia verbenacea DC stands out, both native to Brazil and with scientific studies demonstrating their anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities. Studies developed by Professor Mary Ann Foglio show that the association of extracts from P. pubescens and C. verbenacea are 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 associated with pain and/or inflammation. In order to improve the formulation, provide better applicability and some other advantages, intradermal systems, such as microneedle patches (MNs), may be a promising alternative. MNs ensure precise administration of the active substance into the superficial layer of the skin, where absorption is more efficient, especially in the case of application for local pain/inflammation. Therefore, the objective of this project is to develop MNs containing the ethanol extract of P. pubescens (EEPP) and the C. verbenacea essential oil (CVEO) in association for further in vivo anti-inflammatory tests in Brazil. (AU)