Enhancing Antifungal Efficacy and Stability of Nystatin Liposomes Through Chitosan and Alginate Layer-by-Layer Coating: In vitro Studies Against Candida albicans.

Background: Candidiasis, predominantly caused by Candida albicans, poses a significant global health challenge, especially in tropical regions. Nystatin is a potent antifungal agent that is hindered by its low solubility and permeability, limiting its clinical efficacy.

Methods: This study aimed to investigate the potential of a layer-by-layer (LBL) coating system, employing chitosan and alginate, to improve the stability, entrapment efficiency (%EE), and antifungal efficacy of nystatin-loaded liposomes against Candida albicans. Nystatin liposomes were synthesized via a thin-film hydration method and subsequently coated with varying ratios of chitosan and alginate using the LBL technique. The optimized formulations were characterized in terms of their particle size, zeta potential, %EE, and morphology. Furthermore, in vitro release dynamics, antifungal activity through Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assays, and stability tests at 4°C were conducted.

Results: The optimal formulation, designated as NA7-Ch3-Nys-Lip, exhibited a significant improvement in %EE (61.61 ± 1.60% to 83.77 ± 2.00%), enhanced antifungal activity (MIC value of 0.732 µg/mL), and superior stability compared to uncoated liposomes. The LBL system facilitated controlled drug release and maintained desirable particle characteristics under prolonged storage conditions.

Conclusion: This study successfully demonstrated that LBL-coated nystatin liposomes significantly enhanced the antifungal activity, stability, and delivery efficiency of the drug. This novel formulation strategy offers a promising approach to overcome the limitations of conventional antifungal therapies, potentially improving the treatment of fungal infections.