Self-implantable double-layered micro-drug-reservoirs for efficient and controlled ocular drug delivery

Nat Commun. 2018 Nov 6;9(1):4433. doi: 10.1038/s41467-018-06981-w.

Abstract

Eye diseases and injuries impose a significant clinical problem worldwide. Safe and effective ocular drug delivery is, however, challenging due to the presence of ocular barriers. Here we report a strategy using an eye patch equipped with an array of detachable microneedles. These microneedles can penetrate the ocular surface tissue, and serve as implanted micro-reservoirs for controlled drug delivery. The biphasic drug release kinetics enabled by the double-layered micro-reservoirs largely enhances therapeutic efficacy. Using corneal neovascularization as the disease model, we show that delivery of an anti-angiogenic monoclonal antibody (DC101) by such eye patch produces ~90% reduction of neovascular area. Furthermore, quick release of an anti-inflammatory compound (diclofenac) followed by a sustained release of DC101 provides synergistic therapeutic outcome. The eye patch application is easy and minimally invasive to ensure good patient compliance. Such intraocular drug delivery strategy promises effective home-based treatment of many eye diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Eye / drug effects*
  • Inflammation / pathology
  • Mice
  • Needles
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / administration & dosage*
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Sus scrofa
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism

Substances

  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A