Schizophyllan-Based Nanohydrogels for Delivering Thymoquinone to Psoriasis Inflammation in Animal Models Publisher



Haghpanah A ; Alvandi H ; Ansari E ; Hatamian Zarmi A ; Ghandi N ; Mokhtari Hosseini Z B
Source: Materials Today Communications Published:2026

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory skin disease that is highly prevalent and poses a significant medical concern due to treatment challenges and associated costs. Issues such as incomplete drug penetration into target tissues, the need for repeated doses, side effects, and patient non-acceptance have prompted researchers to explore new drug delivery systems, such as hydrogels. In this study, the therapeutic potential of thymoquinone-containing schizophyllan nanohydrogel (TQ-SPG-Nanogel) for treating psoriasis was investigated in a C57BL/6 mouse animal model. The synthesis of the TQ-SPG-Nanogel was carried out by the inverse emulsion method. The analysis showed that the particle size and zeta potential of the TQ-SPG-Nanogel were 217.8 nm and −29.6 mV, respectively. The nanogels were spherical, with an average size of 37.36 nm, as determined using FESEM. EE% was calculated to be 96.93% ± 1.02, and TQ release follows the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. Also, the swelling behavior of the nanogel was calculated as 19713.12. Animal studies have shown that TQ-SPG-Nanogel exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, reduces hyperkeratosis, and modulates the immune system, potentially treating psoriasis; these results demonstrate the synergistic effects of SPG and TQ. A comparison of mouse weights showed that this nanogel was not toxic and, unlike betamethasone treatment, caused weight gain. Histopathological evaluation and comparison of stratum corneum and epidermis thickness with the control group indicate that TQ-SPG-Nanogel demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity, improved safety, and effective disease alleviation, highlighting its promise as a novel therapeutic candidate for treating psoriasis. © 2026 The Authors.