Remodeling the oxidative-inflammatory skin microenvironment <i>via</i> metal-polyphenol coordination microneedles for high-efficacy multi-target melasma treatment.

Abstract

Melasma is a refractory hyperpigmentation disorder driven by melanocyte hyperactivity, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Current monotherapies fail due to poor transdermal delivery and limited multi-target efficacy. Here, we engineer a dissolvable microneedle patch (TRMCP) that co-delivers tranexamic acid and resveratrol via Mg2+-polyphenol coordination nanonetworks within a chitosan-PVP matrix. The system exerts intrinsic SOD- and catalase-mimetic activities, potently scavenging multiple reactive oxygen species. TRMCP showed excellent inhibition of tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis in B16 cells. In a murine melasma model, a 7-day course of daily administration achieves deep pigment reduction, showing depigmentation efficacy comparable to that of hydroquinone in this model, yet avoids epidermal hyperplasia and tissue damage. Mechanistically, TRMCP downregulates TNF-α and IL-1β while upregulating IL-10, effectively resolving local inflammation and oxidative stress. With excellent biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo , this platform overcomes the codelivery bottlenecks of hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, offering a safe, synergistic, and minimally invasive strategy for multi-targeted melasma therapy.

Abstract as supplied by the indexing source. © the authors / publisher.