Work

High-Load Amino Acid Nanoemulsion: Physicochemical Optimization and Dermal Bioactivity

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Amino acids such as GABA, glycine, and proline play critical roles in extracellular matrix renewal, but their high hydrophilicity limits dermal delivery. This study aimed to develop a stable oil-in-water nanoemulsion capable of incorporating a high amino acid load (20% w/w) and to evaluate its biological activity. Nanoemulsions were prepared using high-pressure homogenization at varying surfactant concentrations (5-7% w/w) and pressures (80-120 MPa). Physicochemical properties, stability, and amino acid content were evaluated, and biological activity was assessed in fibroblasts. The selected formulation (5% surfactant, 120 MPa), identified based on a balance of droplet size, stability, and biological response, showed improved stability and retained >95% of actives over 12 weeks. It significantly enhanced collagen and elastin gene expression. These findings demonstrate that process optimization enables stable high-load amino acid nanoemulsions with potential applications in dermal delivery.

Source: ACS Omega

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.6c03317

Authors: Pornnapa Thanomrak, Kittipong Sanookpan, Sirikool Thamnium, Jittima A. Luckanagul, Vipaporn Panapisal

Institution: Chulalongkorn University

Language: English

Topic: Advancements in Transdermal Drug Delivery

Subfield: Pharmaceutical Science

Field: Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,935

Funder: Chulalongkorn University