Development, characterization and assessment of botulinum toxin type A incorporated in nanocarriers

Botulinum toxin type A is one of the most used products in mitigation of wrinkles and expression lines by promoting muscle paralysis. Because of their hydrophilic and high molecular mass, this active has low permeability through the skin. Thus, to exert its action as rejuvenation agent, botulinum toxin needs to be applied through intramuscular injections, causing pain and discomfort to the patient. An alternative to minimize this problem is encapsulation of the neuropeptide in nanocarriers that can easily cross the skin barrier. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the feasibility of encapsulation of botulinum toxin A in polymeric nanoparticles and liposomes. It was possible to demonstrate the formation of nanoparticles and liposomes loaded with botulinum toxin A. It was observed that liposomes containing botulinum toxin had an effect on neurotransmitters most effective in tests in vitro. The results demonstrate that it is possible to encapsulate botulinum toxin type A in liposome form without altering its biological action. Key words: Botulinum toxin type A, liposomes, nanoparticles.