Exploring Psoriasis Treatment Efficacy and Cognitive Impairment in a Murine Model

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disease characterized by increased proliferation of keratinocytes and immune dysfunction, which results in symptoms of erythema and scaling and discomfort. This condition is always accompanied with systemic co-morbidities, such as cognitive impairment that worsens the prognosis. Corticosteroids and biologic agents are available, but these therapies are often linked with a variety of adverse effects. This study also presents a new topical gel formulation used to address both cutaneous and systemic effects of psoriasis symptoms, by combining curcumin, chamomile extract, and salicylic acid loaded into polymeric nanoparticles. Polymeric nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized and employed as carriers to encapsulate the active compounds of the drug. The drug loaded nanoparticles were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, drug release efficiency and other desirable parameters to guarantee efficient delivery and controlled release at the site of action. This formulation was tested in an IMQ-induced psoriasis mouse model where it provided substantial therapeutic improvement by decreasing skin scaling, thickness, and inflammation. Furthermore, a decrease in the inflammation was observed, by decreased serum CRP levels in the blood serum of treated mice. Behavioural tests also revealed that memory of mice treated with drug-loaded polymeric nanoparticles was better as compared to the untreated group of mice. This implies that the formulation not only targets the skin but also has neuro-protective effects addressing cognitive defects resulting from psoriasis. The histopathological examination of the hippocampus area after the therapy showed decreased neuroinflammation and reduced cell apoptosis, further validating the neuroprotective potentials of the formulation. These findings suggest this novel topical gel formulation as a non-invasive treatment option with reduced systemic inflammation & enhanced neuroprotection. The collective antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and keratolytic properties of all active compounds encapsulated and delivered via polymeric nanoparticles, provides a holistic approach in managing cutaneous and systemic manifestations of psoriasis, making this topical formulation a promising and more efficient alternative to conventional therapies.