Elastomeric Protein Bioactive Eutectogels for Topical Drug Delivery

Elastomeric Protein Bioactive Eutectogels for Topical Drug Delivery

2024 | Matías L. Picchio, María Soledad Orellano, Maria Angela Motta, Cristián Huck-Iriart, Daniel Sánchez-deAlcázar, Rocío López-Domene, Beatriz Martín-García, Aitor Larrañaga, Ana Beloqui, David Mecerreyes, and Marcelo Calderón
This study introduces a novel family of elastomeric protein bioactive eutectogels for topical drug delivery. The eutectogels are constructed by immobilizing a therapeutic deep eutectic solvent (THEDES) in a protein scaffold, specifically gelatin, which is dynamically crosslinked by a natural polyphenol, tannic acid (TA). The unique gelation mechanism of gelatin in THEDES, driven by ionic interactions, results in a dynamic network with enhanced mechanical and viscoelastic properties. The addition of TA controls the conformation of the protein structure, enabling the eutectogels to exhibit strain-hardening behavior, thermoreversible gel-to-sol transitions, and excellent adhesive performance. These properties make the eutectogels suitable for delivering both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances through the skin, as demonstrated in an ex vivo porcine skin model. The eutectogels also show good cytocompatibility and low irritation potential, making them promising for transdermal drug delivery applications. This work paves the way for innovative therapeutic soft materials with enhanced mechanical and biological properties.This study introduces a novel family of elastomeric protein bioactive eutectogels for topical drug delivery. The eutectogels are constructed by immobilizing a therapeutic deep eutectic solvent (THEDES) in a protein scaffold, specifically gelatin, which is dynamically crosslinked by a natural polyphenol, tannic acid (TA). The unique gelation mechanism of gelatin in THEDES, driven by ionic interactions, results in a dynamic network with enhanced mechanical and viscoelastic properties. The addition of TA controls the conformation of the protein structure, enabling the eutectogels to exhibit strain-hardening behavior, thermoreversible gel-to-sol transitions, and excellent adhesive performance. These properties make the eutectogels suitable for delivering both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances through the skin, as demonstrated in an ex vivo porcine skin model. The eutectogels also show good cytocompatibility and low irritation potential, making them promising for transdermal drug delivery applications. This work paves the way for innovative therapeutic soft materials with enhanced mechanical and biological properties.
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