The College of Science, Misan University discussed a master's thesis on the design of a novel topical Nano-system for treating alopecia areata by the postgraduate student, Mr. Mohammed Jassim Mohammed.

The thesis reviewed resigning, refining, and evaluating a topical transfer nanogel loaded with tofacitinib, as well as delivering the drug in a targeted manner to hair follicles while minimizing systemic exposure, offering a promising topical alternative to traditional oral treatment for alopecia areata.

The thesis addressed the preparation of drug-loaded transfer nanovesicles using thin-film hydrolysis, their characterization in terms of particle size, zeta potential, and retention efficiency, and the incorporation of the optimal formulation into a bio-adhesive gel and drug release and penetration through the skin were also studied in vitro.

The thesis included a comprehensive bioassay in an animal model of alopecia areata, quantitative measurement of hair regrowth, histopathological examination, and systemic safety indicators, as well as demonstrating the success of the optimized formulation in achieving a small nanoscale size, high retention efficiency, extended drug release, and effective skin penetration, besides the treated group also showed significant hair regrowth and normal restoration of hair follicles, without adverse effects on liver or kidney function or blood components.

The thesis recommended using other types of nanovesicles, such as ethosomes, and comparing them with transfersomes for targeted delivery to hair follicles and studying the physical and rheological properties of the gel and testing the formulation's effectiveness on other types of alopecia.

Media and Government Communication Directorate

Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research

August 23, 2026