Borage oil nanoemulsion for the treatment of atopic dermatitis: preparation, physicochemical characterization and toxicity evaluation

• Ano de defesa: 2025
• Autor(a) principal: Masiero, Jéssica Fagionato
• Tipo de documento: Tese
• Tipo de acesso: Acesso aberto
• Idioma: eng
• Instituição de defesa: Biblioteca Digitais de Teses e Dissertações da USP
• Palavras-chave em Português: Atopic dermatitis; Borage oil; Dermatite atópica; Nanotecnologia; Nanotecnology; Óleo de borragem

Atopic dermatitis is characterized as an eczematous condition with the potential to lead patients to experience a range of symptoms, from pruritus to more severe skin lesions. The treatment of atopic dermatitis is predominantly symptomatic, involving the use of moisturisers and anti-inflammatory ointments, with no definitive long-term solution to date. Of genetic origin and allergic nature, atopic dermatitis is extensively studied in various scientific investigations. It is known that individuals affected by this condition exhibit metabolic impairments that compromise the ability to metabolize essential fatty acids derived from omega-6, thereby hindering the synthesis of gamma-linolenic acid, a crucial compound for the maintenance of phospholipid membranes. Borage oil, extracted from the seeds of the Borago officinalis L. plant, has been extensively studied in the treatment of various diseases, particularly atopic dermatitis. This oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid, which accounts for approximately 20% of its composition, thereby justifying the substantial interest in its therapeutic use. However, as a natural oil, its oral absorption is limited. In this context, nanotechnology emerges as a promising strategy to overcome this limitation. Due to the benefits of nanotechnology, such as increased efficacy and reduced toxicity, the nano-structuring of vegetable oils has been increasingly applied. In the specific case of borage oil, nanotechnology has the potential to enhance its bioavailability, thereby facilitating its therapeutic use. The objective of this project is the preparation and physicochemical evaluation of a nanoemulsion containing borage oil, intended for oral administration. Additionally, stability and toxicity evaluations have been conducted.