Optimization and in-vitro evaluation of Calotropis gigantea latex loaded nanostructured lipid carrier using box-behnken design approach

The purpose of this work was to optimize and evaluate the Calotropis gigantea latex-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier for the purpose of treatment of vitiligo disease. Fractionated C. gigantea and lipids were evaluated for their solubility. Twelve formulations of nanostructured lipid carriers were prepared using hot-melt emulsification technique with slight modification. Box-Behnken experimental design was used to optimize the NLCs formulation. Independent variables were characterized as X₁, X₂, X₃ for the ratio of lipids, surfactant, and sonication time accordingly. Particle size and entrapment efficiency (Y₁ and Y₂ accordingly) were characterized as dependent variables and the optimized NLCs formulation were analyzed for their responses. Fourier transport infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, transmission electron microscopy has been used to characterize the optimized latex loaded NLCs formulation. After the characteristic evaluation of optimized formulation, release study (in-vitro and permeation) and stability study were carried out. Evaluation of optimized formulation revealed that formulation number ten was having high entrapment efficiency with particle size 223.2 nm showed 91.3% entrapment efficiency, 3.33% drug loading efficiency and -13.5 mv zeta potential. Release study indicates the sustain release action after observing for 24 hours. Stability study indicates that the drug can be stable for long time and the stability of optimized NLCs was significantly stable at refrigerator temperature as compared to room temperature. The results concluded that C. gigantea latex loaded NLCs could be regarded as a potential carrier for the sustained release of phytochemicals to enhance the efficiency of topical formulation.