Transfollicular Enhancement of Gel Containing Cationic Niosomes Loaded with Unsaturated Fatty Acids in Rice Bran Semi-Purified Fraction

The study explored the use of a gel containing cationic niosomes loaded with unsaturated fatty acids from a semi-purified fraction of Oryza sativa (OSF3) for treating androgenic alopecia. The researchers selected the best cationic niosomes based on their physical properties, particle size, zeta potential, and in vitro cytotoxicity. These niosomes were loaded with OSF3, which exhibited high in vitro 5α-reductase inhibition activity. The gel with OSF3-loaded niosomes showed physical stability, high transfollicular penetration through porcine skin, and 8 to 6 times higher cumulative amounts of unsaturated fatty acids compared to other formulations. The gel also demonstrated lower systemic absorption, indicating its suitability for topical application with minimal systemic effects. The study concluded that the gel containing OSF3-loaded niosomes could be an effective topical treatment for anti-androgenic alopecia. Additionally, CTAB niosomes were found to be particularly effective in enhancing the stability and transfollicular delivery of unsaturated fatty acids, with gamma-linolenic acid showing better penetration through hair follicles. The gel OSF3 niosomes were stable, had low toxicity on human skin fibroblasts, and were deemed to have potential for development as an anti-androgenic alopecia product.