Development of controlled delivery systems by nanoliposomes of Hypericum perforatum L. extracts

Abstract

Hypericum perforatum L. is a popular and widespread medicinal plant used in a wide range of therapy, including gastrointestinal diseases, heart diseases, and skin-related diseases. The rapid development of nanotechnology and its applications in pharmacology have enabled the controlled release of drugs and bioactive components. This study aimed to investigate liposomal formulation for controlled release enriched with methanol and ethanol extract of H. perforatum, which has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and proliferative effects. In this context, firstly, the biological activity (antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cell viability) of H. perforatum methanol (Hp-MeOH) and ethanol (Hp-EtOH) extracts obtained by ultrasonic extraction method was revealed. Hp-MeOH and Hp-EtOH extracts have a larger zone of inhibition against Enterococcus faecalis ATTC 51289 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 11778, respectively than the positive control amikacin (30mg/ml). Hp-MeOH and Hp-EtOH extracts were found to have a high total antioxidant status and low total oxidant status and oxidative stress index value. Hp-MeOH and Hp-EtOH extracts have a scavenging capacity of DPPH radicals between 23-89% and 27-90%, respectively in the studied concentration range. In addition, the effect of Hp-MeOH and Hp-EtOH extracts on cell viability of dermal fibroblast cells was evaluated for 24, 48, and 72 hours and induction of proliferation of fibroblasts was observed. Highly stable liposomes were successfully developed which encapsulated 82.6 ± 3.63% and 89.8 ± 2.74% Hp-MeOH and Hp-EtOH extracts, respectively. Liposomal structures loaded with Hp-MeOH and Hp-EtOH extracts showed a more controlled and slower release than the free extract.