Document Type
Thesis
College
College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Department
Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences
Degree
MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Date Completed
1-2025
First Committee Member
Kohan, Gilzad
Second Committee Member
Mizuno, Cassia
Third Committee Member
Lipkens, Bart
Abstract
The objective of this study was to develop a 1% cidofovir-loaded copaiba oleoresin nanoemulsion and evaluate its potential to enhance topical drug permeability for the treatment of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-associated skin conditions. The formulation combined the antiviral properties of cidofovir with the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial characteristics of copaiba oil to improve drug delivery and therapeutic efficacy.
Nanoemulsions were prepared using a probe sonication method. Seven formulations (F1–F7) with varying compositions were initially evaluated for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), stability, and transparency. Among these, formulation F7 exhibited a mean particle size of 56.1 ± 3.12 nm, a PDI of 0.126 ± 0.036, and remained stable without visible separation. After incorporating the drug, the nanoemulsion required pH adjustment from 4.1 to 7.0 to prevent cidofovir degradation. The drug-loaded formulation achieved a particle size of 68.7 ± 5.08 nm, a PDI of 0.254 ± 0.021, and an encapsulation efficiency of 87.76%.
In vitro skin permeability studies using the EpiDerm 3D skin model compared the nanoemulsion gel to a plain cidofovir gel and a cidofovir solution. These studies revealed no significant improvement in skin permeability with the nanoemulsion. However, in vitro drug release studies indicated a controlled release profile, with the release data following the Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic model, suggesting a diffusion-dominated mechanism. The nanoemulsion also demonstrated non-irritant properties, as confirmed by the EpiDerm Skin Irritation Test, where tissue viability exceeded 50%.
Although the nanoemulsion did not enhance skin permeability, it exhibited stability, controlled drug release, and biocompatibility, indicating its potential for further development. Future work should explore modifications to formulation parameters, such as surfactant type and oil composition, to overcome the permeability barrier and improve transdermal drug delivery.
Recommended Citation
More, Mansi Dilip, "Development of Nanoemulsion Formulation Incorporating Copaiba Oleoresin and Cidofovir to Enhance Skin Permeability in Topical Application for HPV-Related Skin Conditions" (2025). Master’s Theses - College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. 7.
https://digitalcommons.law.wne.edu/cophstheses/7
