“Therapeutic Potential of Boswellic Acid-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers in Aloe Gel: A Novel Approach for Effective Gout Management on Wistar Rats”

Purpose

The present study aims to develop, optimize, and evaluate 3-acetyl-11-keto-ꞵ-Boswellic acid-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers incorporated into an aloe-based gel for effective gout management. The objective was to enhance drug permeation, achieve sustained release, and overcome challenges associated with oral delivery of 3-acetyl-11-keto-ꞵ-Boswellic acid.

Methods

Nanostructured lipid carriers were prepared using the micro-emulsion method, employing a Box-Behnken full factorial design with varying concentrations of stearic acid, oleic acid, and Tween 80. Optimization was based on particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, Polydispersibility Index, drug content, and in vitro release. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the nano-sized, well-dispersed particles. The optimized batch (F5) was incorporated into a 1.5% w/v aloe-based gel, which was subsequently assessed for pH, viscosity, spreadability, in vitro diffusion, in vivo dermal irritancy, and efficacy against Monosodium Urate-induced gout.

Results

The optimized Nanostructured lipid carriers exhibited a particle size of 110.1 nm, zeta potential of -32.1 mV, entrapment efficiency of 80.3%, and drug content of 78.21 ± 1.57%. The gel formulation showed a viscosity of 781 ± 6.16 cps, spreadability of 7.67 ± 0.0942 g.cm/sec, and pH of 6.24 ± 0.05. In vitro drug release was 85.96% over 12 h, with the gel demonstrating 83.01% diffusion. In vivo studies confirmed significant therapeutic efficacy, non-irritancy, and enhanced mobility in treated subjects.

Conclusion

The boswellic acid-loaded Nanostructured lipid carriers aloe gel offers a promising strategy for gout management, providing enhanced permeation, sustained release, and minimal dermal irritation. Stability studies further support its potential for therapeutic application.