Franz diffusion cell and its implication in skin permeation studies

Abstract

Franz diffusion cell was primarily used to evaluate the permeability and stability of formulations such as topical (gels and creams) and transdermal (lipid nanoparticle formulations). Diffusion cell is a straightforward assay that can reliably measure the in-vitro and ex-vivo drug release from topical preparations such as creams, ointments, liposomes formulations, and gels. It offered crucial critical perspectives on skin, drug, and formulation relationships. In addition, it is also employed for toxicity testing and quality control. Currently, many medications are available in the market, administered through transdermal routes. To treat various skin conditions, medical professionals use a wide range of methods aimed at increasing the skin’s permeability and drug absorption. The biggest challenge with transdermal drug delivery system is determining the amount of medication penetrating the skin. Today, there is a lot of research into creating new dermal dosage forms for pharmaceuticals. In this review, the authors discuss various evaluation methods to determine the amount of drug penetrating the skin. With their strengths and weaknesses, these models and assessment methods provide a valuable framework for investigating the dermato-pharmacokinetics of different transdermal formulations. The assessment techniques aid in assessing molecules that cause skin irritation by shedding light on the molecular mechanisms by which they penetrate the skin. These assessment tools and models provide a novel strategy for creating topical medicinal formulations for various skin infection disorders. The present review explores Franz diffusion cell application, its implication in pharmaceutical research, and the regulation related to pharmacopeia.

Graphical abstract

Keywords:

• Franz diffusion cell
• skin permeation
• transdermal drug delivery
• skin deposition
• in-vitro drug release

Disclosure statement

The author declares no conflict of interest, financial or otherwise.

Additional information

Funding

Research grant (5/8-4/5/Env/2020-NCD-II Dated 22/12/2021) Under Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India.