Therapeutic potential of a topical lactoferrin– lactobacillus preparation in experimental psoriasiform dermatitis

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of topical Bovine lactoferrin (bLF) and Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and their combination in an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like murine model, using clobetasol propionate as a reference standard. Thirty Swiss albino mice were randomised into five groups: Disease control (IMQ), clobetasol, bLF, LP and bLF + LP. Treatments were applied for 6 days. Clinical severity was assessed by modified psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scores, ear/skin thickness, histopathology and tissue cytokine levels (tumour necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], IL-17 and IL-23) measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance and non-parametric tests. The disease control group showed marked psoriasiform changes, with elevated modified PASI scores, tissue thickness and cytokine levels. Clobetasol significantly reduced these parameters. bLF and LP monotherapies provided modest improvement, lowering IL-17, IL-23 and TNF-α but without significant clinical benefit. Notably, the bLF + LP combination markedly improved PASI scores, ear/skin thickness and histological features, with cytokine reductions comparable to clobetasol ( p < 0.05). Topical bLF + LP demonstrated synergistic anti-inflammatory and skin-restorative effects in psoriasiform dermatitis, approximating the efficacy of clobetasol. This natural, nutraceutical-based formulation holds promise as a safe, affordable adjunct or alternative in psoriasis management. Further studies are warranted to optimise dosing and evaluate clinical translation.