Effect of polyamidoamine dendrimer G3 and G4 on skin permeation of 8-methoxypsoralene—In vivo study

In the present study we have assessed the ability of (PAMAM) dendrimers G3 and G4 to facilitate transdermal delivery of 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) in vivo. In vitro study using Franz diffusion cell revealed an enhanced transdermal flux for 8-MOP in complex with G3 and G4 dendrimer in relation to standard 8-MOP solution. In present study in vivo skin permeation potential of 8-MOP complex with G3 and G4 PAMAM dendrimer was assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), which revealed an enhanced permeation of the 8-MOP to the deeper layers of the skin and significantly higher concentration in comparison with standard 8-MOP solution. Skin tissue 8-MOP concentration, evaluated by HPLC indicates that G3 and G4 PAMAM application significantly increase 8-MOP skin deposition in comparison with standard 8-MOP solutions after 1 and 2h. G4 appeared to be a more effective 8-MOP penetration enhancer than G3 PAMAM. Our results suggest the feasibility of G3 and G4 PAMAM dendrimers for transdermal delivery of 8-MOP resulting in better skin permeation and higher concentration of 8-MOP in epidermis and dermis of the drug that could help to improve effectiveness and safety of PUVA therapy.