Exploring the Therapeutic Potential: MTX/TAC Nanoformulation in IMQ-Induced Psoriasis Models

Psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder affecting 2–3% population of the world and it does not rely sufficiently on the monotherapy, which suggests combinatory approaches for synergistical treatment of disease. The hypothesis behind Methotrexate (MTX) and Tacrolimus (TAC) combination makes sense because of their complementary mechanisms of action, which may potentially lead to amplify therapeutic outcomes. We prepared Eudragit E100 nanoparticles to co-load (MTX) and (TAC), i.e., MTX-TAC NPs, for a combination therapy to treat psoriasis. The optimized MTX-TAC NPs demonstrated appropriate particle size and entrapment efficacy, assuring effective delivery of drug to the target site. Additionally, the hydrogel matrix of chitosan offered an appropriate medium for controlled drug release, providing sustained therapeutic benefits. Studies on ex vivo permeability and deposition showed that drugs were penetrated and retained into deeper layers of skin. A decreased spleen to body weight ratio further demonstrated the anti-inflammatory properties of NPs embedded into hydrogel and histopathological aspects of psoriatic skin as compared to other formulations. There was also drop in the measure of TNF-αand IL-6 in contrast to IMQ group. The results suggested that chitosan hydrogel containing combination of MTX and TAC nanoparticles is safe, effective and therapeutically potential approach for managing psoriasis.