Development and characterization of lipid nanoparticles for encapsulation and skin delivery of coenzyme Q10.

Abstract

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a ubiquitous quinone with a potent role antioxidant and bioenergetic. Its therapeutic and adjuvant efficacy in several diseases has awakened its use in the dermatological area, mainly in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, cancer and aging. However, the unfavorable physicochemical properties of Coq10, such as high weight molecular weight, high lipophilicity and low aqueous solubility, impair its bioavailability after topical administration. Furthermore, the skin, despite being a non-invasive and safe route of administration, it is configured as a barrieradministration of endogenous substances, especially those of high molecular weight. Therefore, as a strategy to enable the cutaneous delivery ofCoQ10, the present study proposes the development of lipid nanoparticles containing CoQ10. Solid lipid nanoparticles and their second generation, theNanostructured lipid carriers are colloidal systems that present high biocompatibility due to the structural similarities of the lipids used with the physiological bilayers, provide protection from physical and chemical degradation of the encapsulated substance, have a controlled release capacity/sustained and topical adhesiveness, allowing longer contact time and permeability through the skin. Therefore, nanostructured systems at to be produced will be characterized as to their physicochemical properties, such as hydrodynamic particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, long-term colloidal stability, and the efficiency of encapsulating the CoQ10. Finally, using Franz diffusion cell both systems will be evaluated for the kinetics of in vitro release of CoQ10, and the profile of skin permeation and retention. The nanotechnology strategy suggested in this project will provide support for future in vitro and in vivo assays, as proposed for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.