Sameer Joshi (Larkin U):

Development of Liposomes to Treat Bacterial Infections

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and is a strong barrier against various infections, including bacterial infections. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), over 83 million (1-in-4) individuals visit a dermatologist annually in the United States alone. However, the infection gets established and spreads depending on the individual’s immunity and skin conditions. Although several drug options are available for treating skin infections, several drugs can potentially inhibit bacterial infection but are not used for several reasons, such as toxicity, solubility, etc. This work aims to load natural anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., Garcinol, Genipin, etc.) into one of the widely accepted drug delivery systems known as liposomes and to evaluate the therapeutic effect compared to using a drug without a liposomal drug delivery system. Formulation development using liposomal drug delivery systems is underway to reduce toxicity following this selection of active ingredients. In the initial stage (formulation optimization), the liposomal formulations are tested for their appearance and uniformity (size, dispersity, and surface charge). The formulations are also tested for their efficacy in loading and releasing the active ingredients. Once optimized, the final formulations will be validated for their uniformity and efficacy in loading and releasing the active ingredients. On the other hand, some preliminary data showed a significant reduction in cytotoxicity to human skin cells (Fibroblasts and Keratinocytes). The same formulations are currently being tested for their efficacy in bacterial inhibition.