Sustained Release of Antibody-Conjugated DNA Nanocarriers from a Novel Injectable Hydrogel for Targeted Cell Depletion to Treat Cataract Posterior Capsule Opacification.

To compare a novel, sustained release formulation and a bolus injection of a targeted nanocarrier for the ability to specifically deplete cells responsible for the development of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in week-long, dynamic cell cultures. A novel, injectable, thermosensitive poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid)-b-poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) triblock copolymer hydrogel was engineered for the sustained release of targeted, nucleic acid nanocarriers loaded with cytotoxic doxorubicin (G8:3DNA:Dox). Human rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cells were used due to their expression of brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 1 (BAI1), a specific marker for the myofibroblasts responsible for PCO.

Review of Contemporary Self-Assembled Systems for the Controlled Delivery of Therapeutics in Medicine.

The novel and unique design of self-assembled micro and nanostructures can be tailored and controlled through the deep understanding of the self-assembly behavior of amphiphilic molecules. The most commonly known amphiphilic molecules are surfactants, phospholipids, and block copolymers. These molecules present a dual attraction in aqueous solutions that lead to the formation of structures like micelles, hydrogels, and liposomes.

Extended Release of Doxorubicin-Loaded 3DNA Nanocarriers from Forming, Self-Assembled Hydrogels.

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, resulting in over 30 million surgeries each year. These cases are expected to double within the next 10 years. About 25% of all patients develop secondary cataracts or posterior capsule opacification (PCO) postsurgery.