Treatment of the Cornea Using Transcytotic Delivery into the Tear Film
Abstract
The aim of this study is to develop therapeutics that are retained at the ocular surface and stimulate corneal wound healing using a biodegradable and biocompatible drug delivery platform technology to treat combat-related eye injuries. Utilizing a local delivery approach with direct intra lacrimal injection combined with an unique drug delivery platform, consisting of biodegradable nanoparticles targeted to facilitate uptake into the lacrimal gland, we have been able to form local drug depots in the lacrimal gland. In addition, we have observed transcytosis of related nanoparticles across the polarized lacrimal glandacinar cells. The therapeutic agent used in these studies has a strong prosecretory effect on the lacrimal gland and a mitogenic effect on corneal wound healing. These findings pave the way for a unique strategy of drug delivery to the lacrimal gland and the anterior segment of the eye, enabling a quick treatment promoting wound healing that is sustainable until an injured soldier in the field can reach a hospital setting for further treatment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- AD1008269
Entities
People
- J. A. Mackay
- Maria C. Edman
- Pang-yu Hseuh
- Sarah Hamm-alvarez
- Wan Wang
Organizations
- University of Southern California