Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor (rhEGF)-loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Fabrication and Their Skin Accumulation Properties for Topical rhEGF Delivery

Abstract

For the present study, rhEGF was encapsulated into solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). The SLNs were prepared by the W-1/O/W-2 double emulsification method combined with the high pressure homogenization method and the physical properties such as particle size, zeta-potential and encapsulation efficiency were measured. The overall particle morphology of SLNs was investigated using a transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The percutaneous skin permeation and accumulation property of rhEGF was evaluated using Franz diffusion cell system along with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The mean particle size of rhEGF-loaded SLNs was 104.00 +/- 3.99 nm and the zeta-potential value was in the range of -36.99 +/- 0.54 mV, providing a good colloidal stability. The TEM image revealed a spherical shape of SLNs about 100 nm and the encapsulation efficiency was 18.47 +/- 0.22%. The skin accumulation of rhEGF was enhanced by SLNs. CLSM image analysis provided that the rhEGF rat skin accumulation is facilitated by an entry of SLNs through the pores of skin.