Statistical optimization of hyaluronic acid enriched ultradeformable elastosomes for ocular delivery of voriconazole via Box-Behnken design: in vitro characterization and in vivo evaluation

Voriconazole (VCZ) is a well-known broad spectrum triazole antifungal, mainly used orally and intravenously. The study aimed to formulate VCZ into ultradeformable elastosomes for the topical treatment of ocular fungal keratitis. Different formulae were prepared using a modified ethanol injection method, employing a 3(3) Box-Behnken design. They were characterized by measuring their entrapment efficiency (EE%), particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential (ZP). The optimized formula was subjected to further in vitro investigations and in vivo evaluation studies. The prepared vesicles had satisfactory EE%, PS, PDI and ZP values. The numerical optimization process suggested an optimal elastosomal formula (OE) composed of phosphatidyl choline and brij S100 at the weight ratio of 3.62: 1, 0.25%w/v hyaluronic acid and 5% (percentage from phosphatidyl choline/brij mixture) polyvinyl alcohol. It had high EE (72.6%), acceptable PS and PDI (362.4 nm and 0.25, respectively) and highly negative ZP of −41.7 mV. OE exhibited higher elasticity than conventional liposomes, with acceptable stability for three months. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated the spherical morphology of vesicles with an external transparent coat of Hyaluronic acid. OE was expected to cause no ocular irritation or blurring in vision as reflected by pH and refractive index measurements. The histopathological study revealed the safety of OE for ocular use. The fungal susceptibility testing using Candida albicans demonstrated the superiority of OE to VCZ suspension, with greater and more durable growth inhibition. Therefore, OE can be regarded as a promising formula, achieving both safety and efficacy.