Development and Assessment of Curcumin-Loaded Phytosomes for Accelerated Diabetic Wound Healing

Abstract

Diabetic wounds are characterized by delayed healing, chronic inflammation, impaired angiogenesis, and oxidative stress. Curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa, has demonstrated significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-angiogenic effects. However, its poor aqueous solubility and low systemic bioavailability limit therapeutic application. Phytosome technology, in which bioactives are complexed with phospholipids, enhances solubility, stability, and dermal penetration. This study explores the formulation, characterization, and evaluation of curcumin-loaded phytosomes for accelerated diabetic wound healing. Optimized formulations exhibited improved drug entrapment efficiency (82.3 ± 2.1%), particle size (155.6 ± 8.2 nm), and zeta potential (−29.5 mV). In vitro release showed sustained curcumin release over 48 h. In vivo studies in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats demonstrated significantly enhanced wound closure (92% at day 14) compared to free curcumin suspension (61%) and placebo (47%). Histological analysis confirmed enhanced collagen deposition, neovascularization, and reduced inflammatory infiltrates. The results suggest curcumin-loaded phytosomes as a promising nanocarrier-based therapeutic for effective diabetic wound management.