Exploring the potential of Moringa oleifera seed extract-loaded microemulsion hydrogel in the DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis model.

BACKGROUND

Moringa oleifera n-hexane (MO n-Hex) seed extract contains phytoconstituents such as behenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol. These exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and antioxidant properties and can alleviate atopic dermatitis (AD)-like symptoms.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to develop and evaluate MO n-Hex seed extract-loaded microemulsion (ME) hydrogel to provide an effective, safe, non-steroidal, plant-based alternative to conventional therapies in the topical management of AD.

METHODS

Optimized o/w ME was developed by building pseudo-ternary phase diagrams. Ex vivo skin penetration was determined by employing CLSM analysis. Further, skin compatibility, histological analysis, and pharmacodynamics were carried out using a DNCB-induced AD model in BALB/c mice.

RESULTS

The best o/w ME demonstrated nearly spherical globules with size < 50 nm, zeta potential - 28.83 ± 0.492, and pH value 5.433 ± 0.047. The in vivo efficacy revealed significant improvements in AD-like symptoms, healed ear skin lesions, and lowered IgE levels and inflammatory cytokiness (IL-4, IL-5, and IFN-γ). Further, histological analysis confirmed the restoration of skin structure, supporting the formulation's potential in skin barrier repair.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrated that the MO n-Hex seed extract-loaded MEs were suitable for topical use with improved penetration to deeper layers of skin while showing safety and better skin compliance. The formulated MEs effectively modulated immune responses and restored skin structure and barrier functioning.