Fabrication and characterization of anti-rosacea 3D nanofibrous customized sheet masks as a novel scaffold for repurposed use of spironolactone with pre-clinical studies

Abstract

The repurposed oral use of spironolactone (SP) as an anti-rosacea drug faces many challenges that hinder its efficacy and compliance. In this study, a topically applied nanofibers (NFs) scaffold was evaluated as a promising nanocarrier that enhances SP activity and avoids the friction routine that exaggerates rosacea patients' inflamed, sensitive skin. SP-loaded poly-vinylpyrrolidone (40% PVP) nanofibers (SP-PVP NFs) were electrospun. Scanning electron microscopy showed that SP-PVP NFs have a smooth homogenous surface with a diameter of about 426.60 nm. Wettability, solid state, and mechanical properties of NFs were evaluated. Encapsulation efficiency and drug loading were 96.34% ± 1.20 and 11.89% ± 0.15, respectively. The in vitro release study showed a higher amount of SP released over pure SP with a controlled release pattern. Ex vivo results showed that the permeated amount of SP from SP-PVP NFs sheets was 4.1 times greater than that of pure SP gel. A higher percentage of SP was retained in different skin layers. Moreover, the in vivo anti-rosacea efficacy of SP-PVP NFs using croton oil challenge showed a significant reduction in erythema score compared to the pure SP. The stability and safety of NFs mats were proved, indicating that SP-PVP NFs are promising carriers of SP.

Keywords: Nanofibers; Repurposed uses; Rosacea; Spironolactone; Topical sheet mask.