Advantages:
- Reduces frequency of intraocular injections for AMD treatment.
- Sustained drug release through thermoreversible gel and nanoparticles.
- Localized drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye.
- Non-invasive, biocompatible, non-cytotoxic, and significantly reduces VEGF expression.
Summary:
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent eye condition that primarily affects individuals over the age of 50, leading to significant vision loss. The condition is characterized by the deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. The advanced form of AMD, known as Neovascular, involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, which can leak fluid and blood, further damaging the macula. Current treatment options for AMD often involve frequent intraocular injections of anti-VEGF drugs to inhibit the growth of these blood vessels. However, these treatments can be invasive, uncomfortable, and carry risks such as retinal detachment, leading to a need for more effective and less invasive drug delivery systems.
Our researcher has identified a novel drug delivery system aimed at treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by utilizing corticosteroid-encapsulated nanoparticles within a thermoreversible hydrogel. The corticosteroids, such as Triamcinolone Acetonide, are encapsulated in PEGylated PLGA nanoparticles with an average size of 208 nm. These nanoparticles are then integrated into a PLGA-PEG-PLGA gel that transitions from liquid to gel at body temperature, allowing for a sustained release of the drug. This system minimizes the need for frequent intraocular injections by providing a burst-free release during both diffusion and polymer degradation phases. It is non-cytotoxic to retinal pigment epithelium cells and effectively reduces VEGF expression, a key factor in AMD treatment. This technology is differentiated by its ability to provide a sustained and controlled release of corticosteroids, significantly reducing the frequency of intraocular injections required in current AMD treatments. The combination of biocompatibility, non-cytotoxicity, and effective VEGF suppression positions this drug delivery system as a promising advancement in AMD therapy.
Comparative suppression of VEGF secretion in ARPE-19 cells through equal concentration treatments (10 mM) of TA free drug, TA NPs, TA drug in 20% w/v TR gel, and TA NPs in 20% w/v TR gel at 72 h. Experiments were carried out using the ELISA method (Human VEGFA ELISA kit, Thermo Scientific) in statistical triplicates (n¼3). Data are represented by the amount of VEGF secretion normalized to untreated control levels±SD. *p50.05.
Desired Partnerships:
- License
- Sponsored Research
- Co-Development