Optimized nanostructured lipid carriers from aceh traditional coconut (Pliek) oil: a promising topical formulations for atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry skin, severe itching, redness, and inflammation. Its complex etiology, involving genetic, immunological, and environmental factors, necessitates innovative therapeutic approaches. This study investigates nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) formulated with traditional fermented coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) oil from Aceh (pliek oil). The NLC was optimized using Box–Behnken Design and prepared through high shear homogenization and ultrasonication. The optimized formula consisted of 8% w/w lipid phase, 2 min sonication time, and 6% Tween 80, resulting in a particle size of 207.1 ± 0.93 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.275 ± 0.005, and a zeta potential of – 30.2 ± 0.78 mV. A 1:1 ratio of Tween 80 and Span 20 ensured stable NLC. The NLC of Pliek oil (NLC-PL) gel met EuroGuiDerm standards for AD treatment, with a pH of 5.62 ± 0.06, indicating skin compatibility. Histological analysis demonstrated that the NLC-PL gel (2.5% w/w pliek oil) significantly reduced MC903-induced ear thickness and inflammation compared to the negative control (p < 0.05), and suppressed mast cell numbers, comparable to the positive control (p > 0.05). Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) confirmed its role as a c-jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) inhibitor, supporting its potential as targeted topical therapy for AD. This study aligns with the study's objective to develop innovative treatments for AD.