Lipid Nanocarriers for Targeted Repigmentation in Vitiligo: Advances in Melanocyte Modulation and Topical Delivery

Abstract

Andres D Parga and Benjamin Ray

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune depigmenting disorder characterized by the loss of functional melanocytes. Current treatments, including corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and Janus kinase inhibitors, often fail to induce complete or sustained repigmentation due to poor skin penetration and inadequate targeting of melanocyte reservoirs. There is a growing need for precision delivery systems that address the multifactorial pathophysiology of vitiligo, including immune-mediated destruction, oxidative stress, and melanocyte stem cell depletion.

Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic potential of lipid-based nanocarriers, such as liposomes, ethosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers, for targeted delivery of agents that modulate melanocyte survival and promote pigment restoration in vitiligo.

Methods: A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed articles published between 2016 and April 2025 were screened based on inclusion criteria: (1) focus on lipid-based nanocarriers, (2) topical or transdermal delivery relevant to vitiligo, and (3) measurable in vitro or in vivo outcomes. Key data points extracted included nanocarrier type, particle size, surface charge, encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and therapeutic agent class. Mechanistic targets (e.g., IFN-γ/CXCL10 axis, oxidative stress, p38 MAPK) and delivery optimization strategies (e.g., microneedle assistance, PEGylation, pH-sensitivity) were thematically analyzed.

Results: Lipid-based nanocarriers demonstrated enhanced skin penetration, follicular targeting, and drug stability. Notable outcomes included: 65% gene silencing and 45% repigmentation with siRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles targeting p38 MAPK. 60% pigmentation restoration in tacrolimus liposomal human trial versus 35% with standard formulation. Baicalein-loaded liposomes and co-encapsulated NLCs (e.g., methotrexate + resveratrol) showed synergistic effects on melanogenesis, antioxidant response, and immune modulation in preclinical models. Surface modifications (e.g., chitosan-coating, PEGylation) improved nanocarrier retention and bioavailability, while microneedle-assisted delivery increased follicular deposition by greater than 300%.

Conclusion: Lipid-based nanocarriers represent a promising platform for repigmentation therapies in vitiligo. By facilitating targeted, sustained, and patient-tolerable delivery of immunomodulators, antioxidants, and melanogenic agents, they address critical limitations of conventional topical therapies. Further clinical trials, regulatory standardization, and personalized formulation design are needed to fully realize their translational potential in vitiligo care.

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