Ufasomes as Topical/Transdermal Drug Delivery System: Structural Components, Preparation Techniques and Therapeutic Application

Abstract

Fatty acid vesicles, or ufasomes, are spherical structures that encapsulate and deliver bioactive molecules to the skin or other tissues. They are formed from both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and offer advantages over liposomes, including greater stability and a wider range of pH compatibility. They are composed of two layers of fatty acid molecules with their hydrocarbon tails facing inwards and their carboxylic groups facing outwards. The space between the two layers is filled with surfactants. There are various methods for characterizing and evaluating the properties of vesicles and drug-loaded vesicles, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Electron microscopy, UV-visible spectrophotometry, Dialysis, Franz diffusion cell, and stability testing. Each method provides specific information about the vesicles, such as their size, zeta potential, morphology, drug content, entrapment efficiency, drug release, permeability, and stability. Ufasomes have potential applications in topical/transdermal drug delivery as food additives, cosmetics, vaccines, gene therapy vectors, and diagnostic tools. Their ability to encapsulate and deliver bioactive molecules makes them valuable in various fields, including drug delivery and biomedical research. In summary, fatty acid vesicles represent a versatile drug delivery system with potential applications in various fields.