Formulation and Characterization of Fluconazole-Loaded Nanogel for Enhanced Topical Antifungal Therapy: In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation
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2026 | Volume - 3 | Issue - 3 | Page 38-42
Student, Master of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutics), HR Institute of Pharmacy, HRIT University, Ghaziabad
Professor and Head of Department, HR Institute of Pharmacy, HRIT University, Ghaziabad
Abstract
Background: Superficial fungal infections remain a significant global health concern, with conventional topical antifungal formulations often demonstrating limited skin penetration, reduced drug retention, and suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. Nanogel-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising strategy to improve topical antifungal therapy through enhanced drug solubility, controlled release, and prolonged residence time at the site of infection.
Objective: This study aimed to formulate and characterize a fluconazole-loaded nanogel for enhanced topical antifungal therapy and to evaluate its physicochemical properties, in vitro performance, and in silico molecular interactions.
Methods: Fluconazole-loaded nanoparticles were prepared using a suitable nanoformulation technique and subsequently incorporated into a carbopol-based nanogel. The optimized formulation was characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug loading, entrapment efficiency, pH, viscosity, spreadability, rheological behavior, and drug content. In vitro drug release was assessed using a Franz diffusion cell, while antifungal efficacy was evaluated against Candida albicans and Trichophyton rubrum using the agar diffusion method. Stability studies were conducted under accelerated storage conditions. Molecular docking analysis was performed to investigate the binding affinity of fluconazole with fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51), providing mechanistic insights into its antifungal activity.
Results: The optimized nanogel demonstrated a mean particle size below 200 nm with a narrow size distribution, high entrapment efficiency (>85%), suitable zeta potential, excellent spreadability, and skin-compatible pH. Sustained drug release over 24 hours was observed, with significantly improved antifungal activity compared with the conventional fluconazole gel (p < 0.05). Molecular docking revealed strong binding interactions between fluconazole and CYP51, supporting its potent antifungal mechanism. The formulation remained physically and chemically stable throughout the storage period.