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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Pharmacognostic evaluation of Zophobas morio (Superworm) lipids as a novel excipient for transdermal drug delivery systems
Authors
Dr. Jay Prakash Singh, Dr. Vivek Srivastava, Mohan Prakash Sharma, Rahul Dev, Apeksha Singh
Abstract
This study presents the first comprehensive pharmacognostic and
pharmaceutical evaluation of lipid extract from Zophobas morio larvae
(ZML) as a novel, sustainable excipient for transdermal drug delivery. The
lipid was extracted and standardized, yielding a golden-yellow semi-solid with
a high unsaturated fatty acid content (68.5%), dominated by oleic acid (38.2%)
and linoleic acid (26.8%), along with significant cholesterol (1.8%).
Physicochemical analysis confirmed its suitability for topical application,
with a melting point near skin temperature, low acid value, and high iodine
value indicative of permeation-enhancing potential. In vitro
permeation studies using Franz diffusion cells and porcine skin demonstrated
that ZML significantly enhanced the transdermal flux of model drugs diclofenac
sodium, ibuprofen, and caffeine, with enhancement ratios surpassing those of
the standard enhancer isopropyl myristate. Cytotoxicity (MTT) and haemolysis
assays indicated a favourable safety profile at effective concentrations.
Solid-state and thermal analyses (DSC, PXRD) revealed polymorphic behaviour
compatible with skin lipid integration. The results establish ZML as a
biomimetic, multifunctional permeation enhancer that combines high efficacy
with biocompatibility, positioning it as a promising green excipient for
advanced transdermal formulations.
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Pages:345-354
How to cite this article:
Dr. Jay Prakash Singh, Dr. Vivek Srivastava, Mohan Prakash Sharma, Rahul Dev, Apeksha Singh "Pharmacognostic evaluation of <i>Zophobas morio</i> (Superworm) lipids as a novel excipient for transdermal drug delivery systems". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 345-354
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