Publications by authors named "Ines de Hoon"
Article Synopsis
- The paper discusses the potential of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as a dual-function tool for both inhibiting collagen fibers and using light to destroy them, which could provide a new treatment for eye floaters.
- The authors express concern over the safety and efficacy of CQDs in this application, urging further research to fully understand their effects.
- This study highlights the implications of using nanotechnology in medical treatments, particularly in addressing common visual issues like eye floaters.
Drug permeation across the cornea remains a major challenge due to its unique and complex anatomy and physiology. Static barriers such as the different layers of the cornea, as well as dynamic aspects such as the constant renewal of the tear film and the presence of the mucin layer together with efflux pumps, all present unique challenges for effective ophthalmic drug delivery. To overcome some of the current ophthalmic drug limitations, the identification and testing of novel drug formulations such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, and nanoparticles began to be considered and widely explored.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFReaching the corneal endothelium through the topical administration of therapeutic drugs remains a challenge in ophthalmology. Besides, endothelial cells are not able to regenerate, and diseases at this site can lead to corneal blindness. Targeting the corneal endothelium implies efficient penetration through the three corneal layers, which still remains difficult for small molecules.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFArticle Synopsis
- Vitreous opacities, often seen in individuals with myopia and aging, are caused by clumped collagen fibers in the vitreous body that create visual disturbances known as 'floaters' and can significantly impact vision quality.
- A potential therapeutic strategy involves using light-responsive nanostructures to either prevent collagen fiber formation or break down existing collagen aggregates with low-energy laser pulses.
- Research shows that positively charged carbon quantum dots (CQDs-2) effectively inhibit collagen aggregation and, when combined with pulsed-laser treatment, can eliminate vitreous opacities derived from patient samples.