ELASTIC VESICLES IN DERMATOLOGICAL AND TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON TRANSFERSOMES

Abstract

Transferosomes are ultra-deformable vesicular systems designed to enhance the transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents. Characterized by their elastic bilayer structure composed of phospholipids and edge activators, transferosomes can efficiently penetrate the stratum corneum and deliver drugs deep into or across the skin. This study explores the formulation and evaluation of a Gentamicin-loaded transferosomal gel for improved topical drug delivery. Gentamicin, a broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic, is typically administered parenterally; however, its systemic side effects and poor oral bioavailability warrant alternative delivery approaches. The transferosomal system offers high drug encapsulation efficiency, protection against degradation, and sustained release properties. In this research, transferosomal gels were evaluated for physical appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, in-vitro drug diffusion, and stability. The formulation demonstrated desirable physicochemical characteristics and effective drug release. Transferosomes, as shown by numerous drug applications, provide an advanced platform for delivering a wide range of molecules including peptides, proteins, anti-inflammatory agents, corticosteroids, and vaccines. Their ability to bypass first-pass metabolism, improve bioavailability, and reduce side effects positions them as a promising carrier system in modern pharmaceutics, especially for transdermal and mucosal drug delivery applications.