High-Throughput Microfluidic Production of Ultrasmall Lecithin Nanoliposomes for High-Efficacy Transdermal Delivery and Skin-Aging Treatment

Background: Liposome particles with smaller sizes could increase transdermal drug delivery efficacy for enhanced skin penetration. While microfluidic methods have enabled controlled liposome synthesis, achieving efficient production of ultrasmall nanoliposomes (NLPUS) with a size smaller than 40 nm yet remains an unmet challenge. Methods: In this study, we employed a helical-blade-strengthened co-flow focusing (HBSCF) device to efficiently synthesize NLPUS, which demonstrated superior skin permeation and retention. Results: Liposome formulation primarily contains unsaturated lecithin, which endows an unprecedented capacity to NLPUS to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, NLPUS can effectively encapsulate a broad spectrum of anti-aging agents, including coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), while preserving its physical properties. In a photoaged skin model, topical application of CoQ10-loaded NLPUS (CoQ10@NLPUS) inhibited ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) production, and promoted collagen type I (Col-I) synthesis in skin cells, thereby effectively rejuvenating the photoaged skin. Conclusions: This study presents a straightforward and efficient method for the production of NLPUS, thereby offering a promising platform for transdermal delivery of diverse therapeutic agents.