Graphene Conjugated Usnic Acid Nano-Formulation For The Treatment Of Topical Fungal Infection

ABSTRACT

Objective: The study aims to investigate the antifungal response of the dug usnic acid with the carrier graphene. Methods: Nano-precipitation method by sonication was adopted to formulate the conjugate. SEM test was performed to check the shape and average size of the conjugate. FTIR test was performed for the chemical interaction between the drug and the carrier. Ointment was prepared by the fusion method and the viscosity test was performed by Brookfield viscometer. Spreadability test was performed by slide method. Animal activity was performed to confirm the antifungal effect of the formulated nano-conjugate. Statistical analysis was done by Anova. Results: SEM study shows that the conjugate is in the nano range and possess a spherical shape. FTIR study shows no interaction between the drug and the carrier. The result of in vitro drug release study shows that the conjugate posses a higher drug release rate as compared to the drug alone. Topical drug administration is more suitable for the treatment of the fungal infection, so the nano-conjugate was incorporated into the ointment by geometric mixing. The viscosity and the spreadability test were performed on the different formulations of the ointment and the suitable one was selected for the topical administration. Anti-fungal study had been performed on the Wistar albino rats for 6 d. Skin culture of rats was performed for the formation of the fungal colonies. Statistical analysis by Anova gives p<0.001. It was found that the normal form of usnic acid, graphene and the nano form both possess anti-fungal activity as 3/6 and 2/6 experimental animals are cured by normal formulation and nano-formulation. Conclusion: The present anti-fungal study revealed that the nano-form of the conjugate possess higher anti-fungal activity than the normal formulation of usnic acid with graphene.