Overview

The study aimed to develop a topical treatment that addresses two key challenges in ISD management: reducing inflammation and restoring the skin barrier. Traditional therapies, including corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, can be effective but often come with side effects and risk of relapse. Moreover, the compromised skin barrier in ISD patients limits the effectiveness of many topical treatments. This study sought to overcome these limitations by creating a nanodrug that enhances skin penetration and provides dual therapeutic benefits.

Key findings

The researchers developed a nanocomplex called DECN, composed of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), collagen tripeptide (CTP), and a cationic dendrimer. EGCG, a polyphenol from green tea, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. CTP, a bioactive peptide, supports skin structure and helps repair the skin barrier. These two components self-assemble into nanoparticles (ECN), which are then coated with a dendrimer to enhance skin penetration, forming DECN.

The DECN formulation was tested in both ex vivo and in vivo models. It demonstrated improved skin permeability, sustained drug release, and effective delivery of therapeutic agents into the epidermal and dermal layers. In mouse models of psoriasis and AD, DECN significantly reduced inflammation, improved skin hydration, and restored barrier function. The formulation was also converted into a spray, offering a convenient and non-invasive method for application.

The role of antibodies

A key aspect of the study involved tracking the cellular uptake and distribution of collagen tripeptide (CTP) within skin-related cells. To achieve this, the researchers used Abcam’s FITC conjugation kit from Abcam to label CTP with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). This fluorescent labeling enabled precise visualization of CTP delivery using confocal microscopy.

The FITC-labeled CTP was incorporated into the DECN nanocomplex and applied to various cell types, including keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and dendritic cells. The resulting fluorescence images revealed strong intracellular localization, confirming efficient delivery of the nanocomplex. The use of Abcam’s conjugation kit was instrumental in validating the transdermal and intracellular transport capabilities of the DECN formulation, supporting its potential as a topical therapeutic for inflammatory skin disorders.

Implications

This study highlights the potential of combining natural compounds and nanotechnology to create multifunctional treatments for chronic skin conditions. The DECN nano-spray offers a non-invasive, targeted approach that could reduce reliance on systemic medications and minimize side effects. Its dual action—anti-inflammatory and skin-repairing—addresses the complex pathology of ISDs more comprehensively than many current treatments.

Moreover, the spray format enhances patient compliance and ease of use, which are important factors in managing long-term conditions like psoriasis and AD. The findings also suggest that similar strategies could be applied to other dermatological or inflammatory conditions.

Future work

The authors suggest further research to explore the clinical translation of DECN spray. This includes scaling up production, conducting human trials, and evaluating long-term safety and efficacy. Additionally, the modular nature of the nanocomplex design opens the door to incorporating other therapeutic agents or targeting different skin diseases.

Future studies may also investigate the use of DECN in combination with other treatment modalities, such as phototherapy or biologics, to enhance therapeutic outcomes. The integration of advanced imaging and diagnostic tools could further refine the delivery and monitoring of such nanodrug systems.

References

Pan, Q., Zhang, S., Yan, X., Guo, J., Li, B. & Ping, Y. A self-assembled nano-spray formulation for synergistic therapy of anti-inflammation and skin repair.  Asian J. Pharm. Sci.  (2025). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajps.2025.101067