Lipid-Based Nanoformulations of 20-Hydroxyecdysone: A Comparative Study of Liposomes and Ethosomes

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that significantly impairs patients’ quality of life and requires long-term treatment. Despite the availability of topical, systemic, and biological therapies, their effectiveness is often limited by adverse effects, insufficient skin penetration, high costs, and interindividual variability in therapeutic response. Consequently, there is a growing need for novel topical delivery systems that improve efficacy and safety. One promising bioactive compound is 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-HE), a naturally occurring ecdysteroid found in plants and arthropods. Although it is not hormonally active in humans, 20-HE exhibits beneficial biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, regenerative, and cytoprotective effects. Due to its physicochemical characteristics, advanced carrier systems are required to enhance its stability and skin delivery. Liposomes and ethosomes are lipid-based nanocarriers known for their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and suitability for topical applications.

Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to develop, optimize, and compare two nanoformulations—liposomes and ethosomes—containing 20-HE, with a focus on formulation design, preparation methods, and stability evaluation.

Materials and methods: Liposomal and ethosomal formulations were prepared using phospholipids with different degrees of purification, 20-HE, aqueous media, and ethanol in the case of ethosomes. Reference formulations without the active substance were also developed. Various preparation techniques were applied and optimized. The obtained nanoformulations were characterized in terms of physicochemical properties and evaluated for stability under controlled storage conditions.

Conclusions: The study demonstrated the feasibility of developing stable liposomal and ethosomal nanoformulations containing 20-HE. Lipid-based nanocarriers represent a promising strategy for improving topical delivery of 20-HE and provide a foundation for further research into their potential dermatological applications.

Funding: This work was funded by grant No. 2024/ABM/03/KPO/KPOD.07.07-IW.07-0043/24-00 from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Poland.