Stearyl ferulate-based solid lipid nanoparticles for the encapsulation and stabilization of beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol

Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces. 2009 Sep 1;72(2):181-7. doi: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2009.03.032. Epub 2009 Apr 8.

Abstract

UVA exposure induces DNA damage that could result in skin carcinogenesis. Antioxidants are usually employed as protective agents to avoid this problem: in particular, both beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol can protect the skin against UVA-induced damage. It is well known that the photochemical instability of these compounds has been a limiting factor for their applications to protect skin. In this study, stearyl ferulate-based solid lipid nanoparticles (SF-SLNs), as vehicles for beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol, were formulated to improve the stability of these compounds. The SF-SLNs were characterized for entrapment efficiency, size and shape together with their cytotoxicity and capability to inhibit lipid peroxidation. After treatment with a pro-oxidant and/or exposition to sunlight the antioxidants entrapped in SF-SLNs were extremely stable. The results highlighted how SF-SLNs represent a suitable vehicle for beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol stabilizing and protecting them from degradation. A dermatological formulation in order to prevent skin damages is, therefore, suggested.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Line
  • Cell Survival / drug effects
  • Cell Survival / radiation effects
  • Coumaric Acids / chemical synthesis
  • Coumaric Acids / chemistry*
  • Drug Carriers / adverse effects
  • Drug Carriers / chemical synthesis
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry
  • Nanoparticles / adverse effects
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Rats
  • Stearates / chemical synthesis
  • Stearates / chemistry*
  • Ultraviolet Rays
  • alpha-Tocopherol / administration & dosage
  • alpha-Tocopherol / chemistry*
  • alpha-Tocopherol / pharmacology
  • beta Carotene / administration & dosage
  • beta Carotene / chemistry*
  • beta Carotene / pharmacology

Substances

  • Coumaric Acids
  • Drug Carriers
  • Stearates
  • beta Carotene
  • ferulic acid
  • alpha-Tocopherol