Icariin-Loaded Transfersomes® as a Potential Nanomedicine for Skin Disorders

Icariin is a natural drug derived from Epimedium Herb with several therapeutic properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and regenerative. Unfortunately, its poor physicochemical features hamper/limit the skin applicability. In this scenario, the aim of this study was the realization of an ultradeformable nanosystem (Transfersomes®) for the topical delivery of this natural bioactive. The resulting nanosystem was physicochemical characterized in terms of average diameter, zeta potential, size distribution, entrapment efficacy and drug loading capability. Ultradeformable nanocarriers led to a 2.8-fold enhancement of the Icariin passage through human stratum corneum membrane than free drug. Icariin-loaded nanovesicles were also tested in vitro demonstrating the absence of cytotoxic effect on human keratinocytes. The obtained preliminary data emphasize the use of this drug delivery system to increase the percutaneous permeation of Icariin in order to provide an advanced nanomedicine for the treatment of skin disorders.