Locust bean gum hydrogel containing Indole-3-carbinol nanocapsules has prolonged cutaneous anti-inflammatory action

This study aimed to prepare a locust bean gum-based hydrogel containing indole-3-carbinol (I3C) Eudragit® RS 100 nanocapsule for treating skin inflammatory disorders. The interfacial deposition of the preformed polymer method was applied to obtain the nanocarrier suspensions that were thickened using locust bean gum (3%) to semisolids production. The formulations regarding scavenger action, general physicochemical characteristics, safety, skin permeation profile, and pharmacological properties were investigated. Hydrogels presented non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behavior, neutral pH values, and particle size within the nanometric scale. Remarkably, nanoencapsulation enhances I3C antioxidant action and photostability (Ultraviolet C radiation) compared to non-encapsulated active. The HET-CAM assay classified the hydrogels as non-irritating. Furthermore, the nano-based hydrogel increased I3C retention in the stratum corneum layer on human skin, which can sustain and prolong the active substance release. Corroborating with this finding, the pharmacological performance of the formulations revealed that nano-based hydrogel extended I3C anti-inflammatory action in both models of skin damage (croton oil and UVB radiation) in mice. Overall, the nano-based hydrogel was more effective in reducing edema and leukocyte infiltration in the tissue than non-encapsulated I3C and may be interesting for treating cutaneous inflammatory disorders.