Topical Delivery of Curcumin-Loaded Transfersomes Gel Ameliorated Rheumatoid Arthritis by Inhibiting NF-κβ Pathway

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> To fabricate and evaluate curcumin-loaded transfersomes (Cur-TF) for the targeted delivery and enhanced therapeutic efficacy of curcumin for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). <b>Methods:</b> Modified thin-film hydration method was used to prepare Cur-TF which were then embedded into carbopol-934 gel. They were further evaluated through <i>in vitro</i> techniques and in an <i>in vivo</i> arthritis model. <b>Results:</b> Cur-TF had optimal particle size, spherical morphology, high encapsulation efficiency and sustained drug release profiles. The Cur-TF gel had better <i>in vitro</i> skin penetration than plain curcumin. <i>In vivo</i> findings demonstrated improved clinical, histological and x-ray scores and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines through NF-κβ inhibition. <b>Conclusion:</b> Cur-TF gel delivered curcumin to the arthritic dermal tissue through a topical route and demonstrated promising therapeutic efficacy by significantly alleviating complete Freud's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis.