Development and Characterization of Ribes nigrum Extract‐Loaded PLGA /Chitosan Nanoparticles as a Vaginal Drug Delivery System for Vulvovaginal Candidia

ABSTRACT

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common fungal infection primarily caused by Candida albicans . The increasing resistance to currently used antifungal drugs underscores the urgent need for new and effective therapeutic approaches. Accordingly, nanotechnology‐based drug delivery systems have gained significant attention in recent years. In particular, polymeric nanoparticles enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize systemic side effects by enabling prolonged and controlled drug release. Accordingly, in the present study, poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA), chitosan (CS), and CS‐coated PLGA nanoparticle systems loaded with black currant ( Ribes nigrum ) extract were developed and comparatively characterized for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Additionally, a content analysis of extracts obtained from R. nigrum fruits harvested from different regions of Mount Uludağ (Türkiye) and processed using various drying methods was conducted. Both the extract and the loaded nanoparticles were found to be non‐cytotoxic and exhibited strong antifungal activity in vitro. The chitosan‐coated PLGA nanoparticles emerged as particularly promising candidates for vaginal application owing to their high surface charge, optimal particle size, mucoadhesive properties, and controlled release profile extending up to 2 weeks. These findings suggest that the synthesized nanocarrier system, in combination with natural bioactive compounds, may offer an innovative, biocompatible, and effective treatment option for resistant infections.