Competitive Advantages
- Efficient and sustained drug delivery system for the suppression of both VEGEF and HIF
- Decreases frequency of injections to treat ocular diseases
- Adaptable for different treatment methods
Summary
Inflammation and angiogenesis are characteristics of Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is reported that they are caused by hypoxia induced factor 1α (HIF-1α) mediated increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Current treatment of AMD require frequent and unpleasant ocular injections. A sustained drug delivery method would lessen the need for these frequent injections as well as promote increased patient compliance.
USF researchers have developed a sustained nanoparticle-based dual-drug delivery system (DDS) of Digoxin (DIG) and corticosteroid Triamcinolone Acetonide (TA) for the suppression of both VEGF and HIF for treating posterior segment of ocular diseases. The nanoparticle comprises a core of TA encapsulated by a membrane of PLGA and the DIG adhering to the outside surface of the PLGA membrane. In vitro testing showed that DIG provides sustained therapeutic release with low cell cytotoxicity and increased HIF suppression, making it a viable therapeutic agent for the treatment of AMD. Through the utilization of this nanoparticle DDS, doctors treating patients with AMD will be able to decrease the frequency of injections and thus increase patient comfort and compliance.
Graph demonstrating how efficiently nanoparticles are able to release their drug within the body
Desired Partnerships
- License
- Sponsored Research
- Co-Development