Research Information System
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, vol.121, pp.1-18, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study reports the development of a clindamycin-loaded, plant-based niosomal gel for topical acne therapy. A
phytocomposition comprising Calendula officinalis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Aloe vera, and Spirulina was optimized
based on extraction efficiency, antimicrobial activity, and safety. Using the thin-film hydration method, the
extract and clindamycin phosphate were co-encapsulated into niosomes and incorporated into gels based on
either Carbopol 940 or Na-CMC. The niosomes exhibited nanoscale particle size (~120 nm), high encapsulation
efficiency (~70–75%), and good colloidal stability (zeta potential ~− 30 mV). LC–MS/MS analysis confirmed the
presence of phenolics and flavonoids such as rutin, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin. In silico PASS screening
predicted strong antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing potential for both clindamycin
and phytochemicals. Rheological evaluation showed pseudoplastic, shear-thinning behavior with better
structural integrity in the Carbopol-based gel. In vitro release studies demonstrated sustained drug release over
12 h, with slower drug release from the Carbopol formulation (86.1%) than from the Na-CMC formulation
(99.0%). Ex vivo permeation through chicken skin revealed enhanced transdermal delivery, with 72.5% cumulative
permeation for the Carbopol-based gel. In vivo pharmacological assessment showed good tolerability
and no toxicity. The optimized gel reduced inflammation by over 70% within 48 h and significantly accelerated
wound healing compared to a commercial comparator. Stability testing confirmed physical and microbiological
integrity over 12 months. These findings support the developed phyto-niosomal Carbopol gel as a multifunctional,
biocompatible topical system enabling sustained dermal delivery, synergistic anti-acne activity, and
improved therapeutic performance.