Biomaterial-Based Delivery of Bioactive Compounds for Psoriasis Management: Natural Products, Polymeric Systems, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by abnormal keratinocyte proliferation, persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruption of the skin barrier. Although conventional topical and systemic therapies can effectively control disease activity, their clinical use may be limited by adverse effects, inadequate skin penetration, systemic exposure, and incomplete long-term disease control. Bioactive compounds derived from natural sources have attracted considerable interest because of their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiproliferative activities. However, poor aqueous solubility, chemical instability, low bioavailability, and limited penetration into diseased skin frequently restrict their therapeutic application. Biomaterial-based delivery systems provide opportunities to overcome these limitations by improving compound stability, skin retention, controlled release, and localized delivery. This review summarizes the therapeutic potential of natural bioactive compounds for psoriasis and discusses the role of polymeric biomaterials, hydrogels, nanoparticles, nanostructured carriers, and stimuli-responsive systems in their topical delivery. Particular attention is given to the relationship between biomaterial properties and the pathological characteristics of psoriatic skin, as well as preclinical and emerging clinical evidence. Current challenges related to safety, reproducibility, scalability, regulatory requirements, and clinical translation are also discussed. Finally, emerging strategies involving multifunctional, biomimetic, personalized, and intelligent delivery platforms are highlighted as potential directions for future psoriasis therapy.