Development and Evaluation of 5-Flucytosine Solid Lipid Nanoparticle-Loaded Topical Gels for Enhanced Chronic Wound Healing

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a 5-Flucytosine (5-FC)-loaded solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) gel optimized for chronic wound healing. SLNs were prepared using stearic acid and poloxamer 407 and optimized via central composite design. The optimized nanoparticles exhibited a particle size of 390.60 nm, entrapment efficiency of 89.60% and PDI of 0.215. SLNs were incorporated into a Carbopol 934 gel base for topical application. The formulation demonstrated a high drug content (94.58 ± 0.73% w/w) and favorable rheological properties. In vitro drug release studies indicated an initial burst followed by sustained release (91.5% at 7 h). FTIR confirmed drug-excipient compatibility. Biocompatibility was verified using an MTT assay in human fibroblasts. In vivo wound healing studies in diabetic mice showed enhanced collagen deposition, immune cell recruitment, and accelerated wound closure. The developed SLN-based gel presents a promising strategy for localized, sustained antimicrobial delivery in chronic wound management.