a. Project objectives

The objective of the present project relates to the preparation of new formulations for topical administration in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), wherein these formulations comprises functionalized drug-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) with a diameter smaller than 200 nm. These new Apt-NPs formulations will be designed to improve therapeutic effects of drug administration by eliminating a series of secondary, undesired effects, determined by the classical administration of biological active agents, and to improve health condition of patients with BCC. Two new types of NPs, liposomes and chitosan-based nanocapsules respectively, will be functionalized with a DNA aptamer, as targeting agent. The Apt-NPs will be formulated as creams or gels. All the creams will be paraben-free and might contain: shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut butter, medium chain triglycerides, vitamin C, A and D, aloe vera.

b. Project activities

A1: Preparation and physical-chemical characterization of some functionalized nanoparticles

A2: In vitro loading/encapsulation capacity of 5-fluorouracil in aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles and determination of skin permeation

A3: Evaluation of the in vitro cell viability and determination of skin irritation induced by aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles

A4: Studies on in vitro targeting capability on cancer cells type BCC of the aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles loaded with 5-fluorouracil

A5 : Topical formulations preparation and characterization with optimal aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles loaded with 5-fluorouracil, and evaluation of in vitro availability of newly formulated products.