Interaction of nanoparticles with the skin barrier is a recent area of research that draws a lot of attention from the researchers. However, monitoring nanoparticles in or through the skin is mainly based on qualitative microscopical techniques. Yet, a quantitative approach is required for a better basic understanding. In response, a combined "multiphoton-pixel analysis" method was developed in this study for semiquantitation of gold nanoparticles penetration into different skin layers. The developed approach provides a useful tool for future studies focusing on skin penetration of nanoparticles for the aim of health risk assessment or for the design of topical and transdermal drug delivery systems.
International Journal of Pharmaceutics , 2011, 413 (1-2), 279-282.