Tacrolimus Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Psoriasis

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic dermatological disease with original autoimmune pathogenesis. It is manifested as erythematous skin lesions covered by silvery scales, known as psoriatic plaques. This creates psychological burdens on patients’ lives. Moreover, the barrier function of the skin is disrupted by the appearance of these lesions. Therefore, physiological dysfunction is also associated with the disease. Unfortunately, psoriasis is non-curable to-date. Therefore, the disease is managed by symptomatic treatment through chronic administration of anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressant agents, either topically or systemically. Systemic therapy is crucial for moderate to severe psoriasis. Tacrolimus is a potent hydrophobic immune suppressant that has reported anti-psoriatic activity. It is used in an off-label scope for the management of psoriasis. Its immune suppressant action is reported to be superior to that of cyclosporine. However, systemic administration of tacrolimus, particularly for chronic use may lead to serious adverse effects such as: nephrotoxicity and hypertension. Nanotechnology is an emerging field of science that achieves many benefits in drug delivery purposes. Polymeric nanoparticles, particularly charged ones, are reported to have higher affinity to the skin, especially upon incorporating hydrophobic agents. Another interesting finding in literature, was that polymeric nanoparticles have higher affinity to diseased skin rather than healthy one.