Advancements in Topical Liposomal Formulations: Translating Preclinical Insights to Clinical Practice

Platanus orientalis extract-loaded liposomes demonstrate enhanced local delivery of flavonoid-rich bioactives with direct implications for topical wound repair. In vitro preclinical testing of a topical liposomal platform showed sustained release and improved local availability, indicating translational potential for sustained topical therapy in wound care. Given the combination of improved local bioavailability and controlled release, clinicians and pharmacists should note the potential for reduced application frequency and improved topical efficacy in future formulations.

This liposomal strategy moves practice away from variable solvent-based plant extracts toward reproducible nanoscale carriers that stabilize phenolic actives and improve dermal interaction. The optimized formulation had a mean particle size of 106.6 nm and a zeta potential of -14.1 mV—parameters that predict acceptable colloidal stability under refrigerated storage and routine handling. Compounding and dispensing workflows are likely to preserve colloidal integrity if cold-chain or controlled storage is maintained.

The formulation achieved an encapsulation efficiency of 72.25% and exhibited a biphasic release pattern: an initial burst followed by diffusion-controlled sustained release, reaching approximately 75% cumulative release at 24 hours. That combination supports both immediate and prolonged local availability and may allow reduced daily application frequency.

In vitro assays showed substantially faster wound closure and greater fibroblast migration with the liposomal formulation versus the free extract—about 47% closure compared with ~16% at 24 hours. Enhanced cellular uptake and prolonged local exposure likely account for improved migration; these outcomes serve as translational signals rather than clinical proof. The logical next preclinical steps are targeted animal-model efficacy and safety testing alongside expanded stability studies.

Key Takeaways:

• Nanocarrier advantage: Liposomal encapsulation yields nanoscale, stable vesicles that enhance local delivery of plant-derived bioactives.
• Sustained delivery: High encapsulation and a biphasic release profile combine immediate effect with prolonged availability, potentially reducing application frequency.
• Translation path: Prioritize animal-model efficacy and safety studies plus extended stability testing to inform dosing and clinical trial design.