Nanoparticle-based drug carriers in transdermal and topical delivery: An in vivo review of anti-inflammatory efficacy

Drug delivery using nanoparticles (NPs) represents a promising strategy to overcome the intrinsic skin barriers, particularly the stratum corneum, thereby enhancing the efficacy of anti-inflammatory therapies. A wide range of nanocarriers has been developed for transdermal and topical drug delivery; however, most studies to date have concentrated on drug stabilization within nanoparticles and system characterization, with limited emphasis on evaluating their therapeutic potential in animal models. In this review, we summarize research from the past decade that investigated in vivo models of inflammation (rats or mice), focusing on studies where drugs were encapsulated in NPs and administered via topical or transdermal routes. We concluded that although both organic and inorganic nanoparticles are utilized, most researchers favor organic nanoparticles due to their greater compatibility with the skin's structure. Across all studies, nanocarriers were shown to enhance the therapeutic potential of drugs. The data suggest the potential of nanoparticles in optimizing drug delivery systems and improving the efficacy of topical and transdermal anti-inflammatory therapies.