Skin Penetration Evaluation of Topical Antipsoriatic Drugs

The development of effective topical treatments for psoriasis relies heavily on understanding how these drugs penetrate the skin. At Ace Therapeutics, we specialize in providing comprehensive skin penetration evaluation services and optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of topical formulations.

The Importance of Skin Penetration Evaluation for Topical Antipsoriatic Drugs

Delivering drugs effectively through the skin presents a significant challenge due to the stratum corneum, a protective barrier that limits penetration. For topical antipsoriatic drugs to exert their therapeutic effects, they must penetrate this barrier effectively. In vitro skin penetration studies provide critical data on how well these drugs can permeate through the skin under various conditions. Evaluating the skin penetration of topical drugs helps identify formulations that can deliver effective local concentrations while minimizing systemic exposure. This is particularly important in preventing potential adverse effects associated with corticosteroid use, such as adrenal suppression or skin atrophy.

Fig. 1 Microscopic images of skin surface of healthy (a), eczematous (b), and psoriatic skin pieces (c). (Menter A, et al., 2021)

Comprehensive Formulation Services for Topical Antipsoriatic Drug Development

At Ace Therapeutics, we specialize in advanced methodologies for assessing the skin penetration of topical antipsoriatic drugs. Our comprehensive evaluation processes utilize both in vitro and ex vivo models to simulate skin absorption.

Comprehensive Study Design

• Advanced Methos: Utilization of both static (Franz-type) and dynamic (McGregor/Toner) flow-through cells to measure drug permeation rates accurately.
• Custom Study Protocols: Collaboration with clients to design studies that meet specific research questions and regulatory requirements.
• Ethical Sample Sourcing: Human skin obtained from elective surgeries with proper ethical approval and informed consent.

Analytical Techniques

• Radiolabeled Compounds: Use of [¹⁴C] and [³H] to enhance detection and quantification of skin penetration.
• Sophisticated Assays: Implementation of LC-MS/MS and other bioanalytical methods to assess drug concentration and distribution within skin layers.
• Full Mass Balance Studies: Evaluation of the total amount of drug applied, absorbed, and remaining to ensure comprehensive data collection.

One-Stop Solutions

• Dermal Absorption Studies: Conducting in vitro studies to provide essential data on skin absorption characteristics.
• Formulation Screening: Assessing various formulations to identify those with optimal skin penetration characteristics.
• Bioequivalence Studies: Comparing new formulations against reference products to establish equivalence in dermal absorption.
• Customized Reporting: Detailed reports that include methodology, findings, and implications for drug formulation and application.

The evaluation of skin penetration for topical antipsoriatic drugs is a vital component of drug development, influencing therapeutic effectiveness and safety profiles. Ace Therapeutics leverages advanced in vitro methodologies, deep expertise in pharmacology, and a commitment to ethical research practices to deliver high-quality evaluations tailored to the specific needs of our clients. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your drug development journey.