Development of a thermoresponsive gel for topical curcumin delivery

• Grant number: 25/24047-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Newton Andréo Filho
• Grantee: Nágila Gleicy Mendonça Reis Santos
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas (ICAQF). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Diadema. Diadema , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Curcumin is the main curcuminoid found in the rhizome of Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric. This phytotherapeutic compound is included in RENISUS due to its anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, and wound-healing activities, which have generated significant therapeutic and cosmetic interest. However, its lipophilicity, photosensitivity, low skin permeation, and short half-life compromise its bioavailability. In this context, drug delivery systems that enhance solubility and enable controlled release, such as thermoresponsive gels, hold great potential. Thus, this project proposes the development of a thermoresponsive gel containing curcumin for cutaneous application. The solubility of curcumin in aqueous media will be investigated in the presence of different cosolubilizers, and the most promising system will be used in the preparation of gels with poloxamer 407, aiming for a sol-gel transition near 32 °C. The formulations will be optimized through experimental design (DoE) and characterized in terms of rheology, texture, clarity, and curcumin content. The best-performing formulations will undergo in vitro release assays and a preliminary stability study. Successful formulation development is expected to enhance the cutaneous efficacy of curcumin and establish a technological platform applicable to other pharmaceutical and cosmetic bioactives. (AU)