Preparation, characterization and evaluation of Ginkgo biloba solid lipid nanoparticles

Objective(s): In this work, Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were synthesized via high pressure homogenization method and their physicochemical properties, as well as cytotoxicity and antibacterial activities were evaluated.Methods: Ginkgo biloba extract SLNs (GBE-SLNs) were prepared using high pressure homogenization method. The morphology and size of SLNs were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. The drug release of SLNs was also investigated using synthetic dialysis membrane. The antibacterial activity of nanoparticles was tested against both gram negative and gram positive bacteria strains. The probability of having toxicity of SLNs was studied on the rabbits.Results: The spherical structure of GBE-SLNs was confirmed by SEM images. The mean particle size of the obtained SLNs was ranging from 104 to 621 nm for different formulations using DLS technique. An in-vitro study of synthesized SLNs illustrated that the percentage of ginkgo biloba released from the solid lipid nanoparticles was 85% of loaded GBE after 72 hours. There was no report of significant skin toxicity via in-vivo studies.Conclusions: According to the above results, SLNs loaded with ginkgo extract showed acceptable particle size and shape, suitable loading of active substance and sustained release profile as well as appropriate antimicrobial effects without any significant skin toxicity.