Nanoencapsulation of Arrabidae chica extracts with antiinflamatory and analsegic potential for topical use

Abstract

Medicinal plants have been a natural source for many years for the treatment of many diseases. It is widely proposed to combine phytotherapy with nanotechnology, because systems with nanoscale size may be able to potentiate the action of plant extracts, reducing the dose and side effects and improving their biological activity. The nanoencapsulation of phytocomplexes may lead to a larger concentration of the molecules during the treatment period, directing it to the desired site of action, besides protecting the extract against oxygen and ultraviolet radiation. Previous studies have shown that the extract of Arrabidae chica has cicatrizant, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic and antiproliferative properties, besides it presented non-genotoxic, biocompatible and non-toxic. The aim of this project is to develop and characterize A. chica extract and its incorporation into polymeric nanocapsules. Among the characterization studies are: zeta potencial and size, encapsulation efficiency, rheological and texture assays of nanocapsules-loaded hydrogels, release and permeation studies, in vitro cytotoxicity assessment and biological assays in animal models for evaluation of anti-inflammatory, anti-edematogenic and nociceptive activities. Finally, the expected results of the use of nanotechnology, associated with hydrogels, may allow adequate application to the skin, besides the possibility of increasing skin permeation or controlling the release rate of A. chica phytocomplexes, and to minimize the therapeutic dose applied on the skin.