The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro transdermal diffusion of a small peptide namely
arginine vasopressin (AVP) with the aid of the novel PheroidTM drug delivery system. Generally,
peptides seem unfit for transdermal permeation, but it was thought prudent to explore the
suitability of this lipid-based system after success was achieved with entrapment of
tuberculostatics, bacteria and viruses. Bestatin (a selective aminopeptidase inhibitor) was
employed to circumvent any skin-related degradation of the active. Therefore, the effect of
bestatin on the preservation of AVP during diffusion was investigated. Vertical Franz cell
diffusion studies were conducted with female abdominal skin, with AVP at a concentration of
150 pglml in the donor phase and Hepes buffer as the receptor phase over a twelve-hour
period. To prove entrapment of AVP within the lipid structures of the PheroidsTM, fluorescentlylabelled
samples were monitored by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM),
which revealed definite entrapment. In vitro permeation profiles for AVP exhibited a biphasic
character, with the majority of permeation occurring during the first two hours. The PheroidTM
delivery system proved to be advantageous when applied as delivery medium. The inclusion of
bestatin has an enhancing effect on permeation probably due to its protection of AVP. / Thesis (M.Sc. (Pharmaceutics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2007.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:NWUBOLOKA1/oai:dspace.nwu.ac.za:10394/1491 |
| Date | January 2007 |
| Creators | Coetzee, Hanneri |
| Publisher | North-West University |
| Source Sets | North-West University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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