3-Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid loaded-polymeric nanomicelles for topical anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity

Objectives The aim of this study was to develop 3-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA)-loaded polymeric nanomicelles for topical anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity. Methods Polymeric nanomicelles of AKBA were developed by a radical polymerization method using N-isopropylacrylamide, vinylpyrrolidone and acrylic acid. The polymeric nanomicelles obtained were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). In-vitro and in-vivo evaluations of AKBA polymeric nanomicelles gel were carried out for enhanced skin permeability and anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity. Key findings TEM and DLS results demonstrated that polymeric nanomicelles were spherical with a mean diameter approximately 45 rim. FTIR data indicated a weak interaction between polymer and AKBA in the encapsulated system. The release of drug in aqueous buffer (pH 7.4) from the polymeric nanomicelles was 23 and 55% after 2 and 8 h, respectively, indicating sustained release. In-vitro skin permeation studies through excised abdominal skin indicated a threefold increase in skin permeability compared with AKBA gel containing the same amount of AKBA as the AKBA polymeric nanomicelles gel. The AKBA polymeric nanomicelle gel showed significantly enhanced anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity compared with the AKBA gel. Conclusions This study suggested that AKBA polymeric nanomicelle gel significantly enhanced skin permeability, and anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity.