Controlled release of dexamethasone sodium phosphate with biodegradable nanoparticles for preventing experimental corneal neovascularization.

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) leads to the loss of corneal transparency and vision impairment, and can ultimately cause blindness. Topical corticosteroids are the first line treatment for suppressing CNV, but poor ocular bioavailability and rapid clearance of eye drops makes frequent administration necessary. Patient compliance with frequent eye drop application regimens is poor.

Impact of Surface Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Density on Biodegradable Nanoparticle Transport in Mucus ex Vivo and Distribution in Vivo.

Achieving sustained drug delivery to mucosal surfaces is a major challenge due to the presence of the protective mucus layer that serves to trap and rapidly remove foreign particulates. Nanoparticles engineered to rapidly penetrate mucosal barriers (mucus-penetrating particles, "MPP") have shown promise for improving drug distribution, retention and efficacy at mucosal surfaces. MPP are densely coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), which shields the nanoparticle core from adhesive interactions with mucus.

Corticosteroid-loaded biodegradable nanoparticles for prevention of corneal allograft rejection in rats.

Immunologic graft rejection is one of the main causes of short and long-term graft failure in corneal transplantation. Steroids are the most commonly used immunosuppressive agents for postoperative management and prevention of corneal graft rejection. However, steroids delivered in eye drops are rapidly cleared from the surface of the eye, so the required frequency of dosing for corneal graft rejection management can be as high as once every 2h.