Emerging Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for the Management of Psoriasis

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Journal of MedVerse Research & Practice

ISSN: 3107-4278

Emerging Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for the Management of

Psoriasis

Dr. Malathi Ram

, Dr. Aishwariya

Professor, Assistant Professor

Department of Dermatology, Bangalore Medical Science,

Email: malathiram@gmail.com

Submission Date: 22.07.2025

Accepted Date: 17.08.2025

Published Date: 31.08.2025

article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits

unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are credited.

Abstract

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-driven dermatological condition marked by excessive keratinocyte

proliferation, persistent inflammation, and the appearance of erythematous, scaly lesions. Conventional treatment

modalities-including topical agents, phototherapy, and systemic drugs—often encounter drawbacks such as limited

skin penetration, adverse effects, and poor patient adherence. Advances in nanotechnology provide innovative

solutions by enabling site-specific drug delivery, improving therapeutic efficiency, and minimizing systemic toxicity.

This review highlights the potential role of nanotechnology in optimizing psoriasis management.

Objectives: The primary aim of this review is to summarize current and emerging nanotechnological strategies for

psoriasis therapy, with emphasis on their mechanisms, effectiveness, and ability to overcome the limitations

associated with standard treatments.

Methods: A detailed analysis of published literature was performed, focusing on nanocarrier systems such as

liposomes, noisome, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and dendrimers designed for anti-psoriatic

drug delivery. Parameters such as encapsulation efficiency, transdermal penetration, and therapeutic response were

critically examined.

Results: Nanocarrier-based formulations demonstrated superior drug stability, controlled release, and enhanced skin

permeation compared with conventional preparations. Vesicular carriers like liposomes and noisome enabled

localized delivery while reducing systemic absorption and associated side effects. Solid lipid nanoparticles and

polymeric systems exhibited promising anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative outcomes in experimental models of

psoriasis.

Conclusion: Nanotechnology-driven interventions represent a transformative direction for psoriasis management by

overcoming major shortcomings of traditional therapies. However, robust clinical trials are required to validate their

long-term safety, therapeutic efficacy, and applicability in routine dermatological practice.

Keywords: Psoriasis, Nanotechnology, anti-inflammatory

Introduction

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by abnormal

proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, along with dysregulation of the immune system.

Clinically, it presents with erythematous, scaly plaques that commonly affect the scalp, elbows, knees, and

lower back, although any skin surface may be involved. The disease has a variable age of onset but is most

frequently reported between the fifth and seventh decades of life [1]. Globally, psoriasis is a significant

public health burden. Its prevalence varies widely, ranging from 0.09% to 11.4%, depending on geographic

and ethnic factors [2]. In India, prevalence rates are estimated between 0.44% and 2.8%, with a male

preponderance and peak incidence in individuals aged 30–40 years [3]. Epidemiological studies suggest

that psoriasis affects more than 125 million individuals worldwide. The prevalence is lowest in certain

Asian regions (around 0.5%) and highest in Scandinavian countries such as Norway (up to 8%) [4]. A

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systematic review estimated that approximately 29.5 million adults were affected globally in 2017,

corresponding to a physician-diagnosed lifetime prevalence of 0.59% (95% CI: 0.19–1.66%) [5].

The pathogenesis of psoriasis is complex and multifactorial, involving a strong genetic predisposition,

environmental triggers, and dysregulation of innate and adaptive immunity. Genetic studies have identified

susceptibility loci such as PSORS1 on chromosome 6p21, which are strongly linked to the development of

the disease [6]. Immunologically, psoriasis is characterized by aberrant activation of plasmacytoid dendritic

cells, keratinocytes, and natural killer T cells, which secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines. DNA–LL37

complexes can stimulate plasmacytoid dendritic cells to produce interferon-α, which subsequently activates

myeloid dendritic cells [7]. These activated cells release interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, driving

differentiation of naïve T cells into Th1 and Th17 subsets. The resulting cytokine milieu, particularly

tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-17, and IL-22, induces keratinocyte hyperproliferation,

angiogenesis, and sustained inflammation, which are the hallmarks of psoriatic plaques [8]. Despite

significant advances in therapeutic options - including topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, systemic

immunosuppressants, and biologics - current treatments are often limited by adverse effects, inadequate

skin penetration, high costs, and variable patient compliance. This has led to growing interest in

nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, which offer advantages such as targeted delivery, enhanced

bioavailability, and reduced systemic toxicity [9]. Understanding the epidemiology, immunopathogenesis,

and limitations of conventional treatment is therefore crucial in appreciating the role of emerging

nanotechnological approaches for psoriasis management.

1. Epidemiology and Global Burden of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a widespread chronic skin condition with varying prevalence across the globe. Epidemiological

studies suggest that its prevalence ranges from 0.09% to 11.4%, depending on geographic, genetic, and

environmental factors [10]. Developed countries, particularly in Northern Europe, report higher prevalence

rates (up to 8% in Norway), while Asian nations show lower values, often less than 1% [11]. In India, the

prevalence is reported between 0.44–2.8%, with the disease being more common in men and typically

manifesting between 30–40 years of age [12]. Globally, over 125 million individuals are affected, making it

a significant public health concern [13]. Importantly, psoriasis is more frequent in adults compared to

children, with an estimated 29.5 million adults diagnosed worldwide in 2017 [14].

2. Pathophysiology of Psoriasis: Immune and Molecular Insights

Psoriasis is primarily an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder involving complex interactions between

keratinocytes, dendritic cells, T lymphocytes, and cytokines [15]. A key early event is the activation of

plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) by complexes such as DNA-LL37, leading to the secretion of

interferon-α, which stimulates myeloid dendritic cells [16]. These, in turn, produce cytokines such as IL-12

and IL-23, activating Th1 and Th17 cells. The IL-23/Th17 axis is particularly central, with cytokines

including IL-17, IL-22, and TNF-α driving keratinocyte proliferation, angiogenesis, and sustained

inflammation [17]. Keratinocytes also perpetuate the cycle by releasing antimicrobial peptides, cytokines,

and chemokines that further recruit immune cells [18]. Thus, psoriasis results from a self-amplifying

inflammatory cascade involving both innate and adaptive immunity.

3. Clinical Features and Impact on Quality of Life

Clinically, psoriasis presents with erythematous, scaly plaques, often affecting the scalp, elbows, knees, and

lower back. Variants include plaque psoriasis, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic types [19].

Beyond skin lesions, patients may develop psoriatic arthritis in up to 30% of cases [20]. The disease has

profound psychosocial impacts, leading to stigma, depression, anxiety, and reduced work productivity [21].

Studies suggest that the quality-of-life impairment in psoriasis is comparable to chronic conditions like

diabetes and cardiovascular disease [22].

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4. Current Treatment Modalities and Limitations

Conventional management includes topical therapies (corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs), phototherapy,

and systemic agents (methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin) [23]. Biologic therapies targeting TNF-α, IL-17,

and IL-23 have revolutionized treatment but are expensive and not widely accessible [24]. Furthermore,

systemic drugs are associated with toxicities, organ damage, and immunosuppression, while topicals often

suffer from poor skin penetration and low patient adherence [25]. These challenges highlight the need for

novel drug delivery systems, such as nanotechnology-based formulations, to improve therapeutic outcomes.

5. Rationale for Nanotechnology in Psoriasis Treatment

Nanocarriers provide enhanced drug solubility, stability, controlled release, and site-specific delivery [26].

Their small size allows better penetration through the stratum corneum, a major barrier to topical drug

delivery. Moreover, nanotechnology reduces systemic toxicity, enhances drug residence time in skin layers,

and can be tailored to deliver both small molecules and biologics [27]. Importantly, nanoparticles can be

engineered to respond to stimuli (pH, temperature, inflammation), offering precision in drug delivery [28].

6. Types of Nanocarriers in Psoriasis Therapy

• Liposomes & Noisome: Improve topical penetration and reduce systemic absorption.

• Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs): Offer controlled drug release and protection of labile drugs.

• Polymeric Nanoparticles: Provide stability and tuneable release properties.

• Dendrimers: Nanosized branched polymers capable of carrying hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs.

• Nanoemulsions: Enhance solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs and improve skin targeting [29–32].

Discussion

Psoriasis is a multifactorial autoimmune disease that presents significant therapeutic challenges because of

its chronic relapsing course, systemic involvement, and psychosocial impact. Although conventional

therapies such as topical corticosteroids, methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics have improved disease

management, their use is often limited by systemic toxicity, poor bioavailability, drug resistance, and

frequent relapses after discontinuation, as reported by Boehncke et al. and Rendon et al. [33,34]. In this

context, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems represent a promising strategy to overcome these

limitations.

Nanoparticles can penetrate the stratum corneum barrier, prolong drug residence time, and enable

controlled drug release at psoriatic lesion sites. Lipid-based nanocarriers, including solid lipid nanoparticles

(SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), have demonstrated enhanced dermal penetration and

improved drug stability compared with conventional topical formulations, as shown by Gupta et al. [35].

Similarly, polymeric nanoparticles facilitate targeted delivery of immunomodulatory drugs such as

methotrexate and tacrolimus, thereby reducing systemic exposure and minimizing adverse effects, as

described by Dattola et al. [36].

Another important advancement is the development of nanogels and nanoemulsions, which provide an

optimal hydrophilic–hydrophobic balance for delivering both small molecules and biologics. Kalariya et al.

demonstrated that curcumin-loaded nanogels exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative

effects in experimental models of psoriasis [37]. Likewise, nanoemulsion-based formulations containing

cyclosporine and retinoids have been reported to improve patient compliance by reducing irritation and

enhancing skin hydration, as reported by Prow et al. [38].

Beyond topical delivery, systemic nanomedicine approaches are also being actively explored. Kang et al.

reported that nanoparticle-mediated delivery of biologics, including anti–TNF-α and IL-17 inhibitors,

results in improved pharmacokinetics and prolonged circulation in preclinical psoriasis models [39].

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Furthermore, surface modification of nanoparticles with immune cell–targeting ligands offers new

opportunities for precision immunotherapy, as highlighted by Yamanaka et al. [40].

Despite these encouraging developments, several challenges remain. Issues related to large-scale

production, long-term safety, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory approval continue to limit clinical

translation. In addition, some nanocarriers may provoke unintended immune responses or accumulate in

organs, raising safety concerns, as discussed by Ventola et al. [41]. Therefore, future research should focus

on long-term clinical evaluation, optimization of nanocarrier systems, and personalized therapeutic

strategies integrating genomics with nanomedicine.

Summary

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disorder affecting around 125 million people worldwide. Its

prevalence ranges from <1% in Asia to about 8% in Northern Europe and 0.44–2.8% in India, with higher

rates in men aged 30–40 years. The disease results from genetic, environmental, and immune factors,

particularly activation of the IL-23/Th17 axis, leading to inflammation and keratinocyte hyperproliferation.

Clinically, it presents as erythematous, scaly plaques with significant physical and psychological impact.

Current treatments-topical agents, systemic drugs, phototherapy, and biologics - are effective but limited by

side effects, poor penetration, high cost, and relapses.

Nanotechnology-based drug delivery offers improved skin penetration, controlled release, and reduced

systemic toxicity. Liposomes, noisome, SLNs, NLCs, polymeric nanoparticles, nanogels, and

nanoemulsions show promising results in enhancing drug stability and efficacy. However, large-scale

production, safety, and regulatory issues remain challenges. Further clinical research is needed to translate

these advances into effective therapies.

Conclusion

Nanotechnology-based therapeutic systems offer significant potential to revolutionize psoriasis

management by improving drug delivery, minimizing side effects, and enhancing patient adherence. Lipid

nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, nanoemulsions, and nanogels have demonstrated promising preclinical

and clinical outcomes. However, their clinical adoption remains limited due to safety, scalability, and

regulatory hurdles. Continued research, with an emphasis on personalized nanomedicine and integration

with biologic therapies, may pave the way for next-generation treatments capable of achieving long-term

remission in psoriasis patients.

Conflict of Interest: Nil

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