Development of a bioadhesive nanoformulation with<i>Glycyrrhiza glabra</i>L. extract against<i>Candida albicans</i>

Abstract

<i>Glycyrrhiza glabra</i> L. is considered an important source of bioactive compounds. This study aimed at the development of an efficient solution for the treatment of oral candidiasis. Several extracts of <i>Glycyrrhiza glabra</i> L. were prepared using different solvents and their potential <i>in vitro</i> antifungal activity was assessed. Ethanolic extracts showed the most promising results against <i>C. albicans.</i> This extract was incorporated into mucoadhesive nanoparticles (PLA, PLGA and alginate), which were further included in an oral gel, an oral film and a toothpaste, respectively. The results showed that nanoparticles were successfully produced, presenting a mean size among 100-900 nm with high encapsulation efficiency. <i>In vitro</i> studies showed that the most bioadhesive formulation was the oral film with extract-loaded PLGA nanoparticles, followed by the toothpaste with extract-loaded alginate nanoparticles and the oral gel with extract-loaded PLA nanoparticles.