Development of pimecrolimus loaded liposome formulations for treatment of vitiligo

Pigment diseases are diseases that occur when melanocyte cells that give color to the skin are damaged by genetic, autoimmune or environmental reasons. As a result of these damage to the melanocytes, the skin color may become darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation) than its normal color. Vitiligo is the most common among acquired hypopigmentation diseases, with a worldwide prevalence of approximately 8.8%. Current treatment options for vitiligo include medical, surgical, herbal and some medical treatments. With these treatments, the symptoms of the disease can be reduced, but these conventional approaches are insufficient to provide an effective treatment and may cause side effects. Today, topical formulations containing the immunosuppressive agent pimecrolimus are frequently preferred for treatment. However, these treatments with conventional formulations (cream, gel, ointment, lotion, powder) cannot provide adequate treatment because they have low penetration properties and cannot reach target tissues. For this reason, it can be used in combination with topical treatment, phototherapy or systemic treatment, but the side effects of combined treatments can be high and long treatment duration. In recent years, it is aimed to prevent the formation of vitiligo and thus to increase the quality of life of the patient with new generation formulations and advanced technological treatments. In this respect, liposomes draw attention as effective drug delivery systems that are biodegradable, biocompatible, have a structure similar to biological membranes, are non-toxic, have penetration enhancing and targeting properties. Thanks to these advantages, with liposome formulations, both effective treatment can be provided with lower doses and drug-related side effects can be reduced. Within the scope of this thesis; Liposome formulations were prepared by thin film- forming method using different lipids (Soya-phosphatidylcholine, DPPC, Lipoid S100) and characterization studies (particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential measurements, morphological properties, encapsulation efficiency and stability tests) were performed. The in-vitro release/diffusion properties and cytotoxicity of the optimized liposome formulations were investigated. In conclusion; An innovative formulation has been developed as an alternative to conventional preparations currently used in treatment. Thus, a lower dose, shorter time and more effective treatment option was provided for patients.