Overview of Recent Advances in Nano-Based Ocular Drug Delivery

Abstract

Ocular diseases profoundly impact patients’ vision and overall quality of life globally. However, effective ocular drug delivery presents formidable challenges within clinical pharmacology and biomaterial science, primarily due to the intricate anatomical and physiological barriers unique to the eye. In this comprehensive review, we aim to shed light on the anatomical and physiological features of the eye, emphasizing the natural barriers it presents to drug administration. Our goal is to provide a thorough overview of various characteristics inherent to each nano-based drug delivery system. These encompass nanomicelles, nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, microemulsions, nanofibers, dendrimers, liposomes, niosomes, nanowafers, contact lenses, hydrogels, microneedles, and innovative gene therapy approaches employing nano-based ocular delivery techniques. We delve into the biology and methodology of these systems, introducing their clinical applications over the past decade. Furthermore, we discuss the advantages and challenges illuminated by recent studies. While nano-based drug delivery systems for ophthalmic formulations are gaining increasing attention, further research is imperative to address potential safety and toxicity concerns.

Research progress of photo-crosslink hydrogels in ophthalmology: A comprehensive review focus on the applications

“…Eye drops are a common treatment for the Dry Eye, but their effectiveness is limited [ 15 , 219 ]. In the study of Xu et al, dexamethasone-loaded lacrimal plug was prepared by 3D printing technology, which was composed of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), which realized the loading of different concentrations of drugs by creating a semi-interpenetrating network (semi-IPN) ( Fig.…”

Vesicular Drug Delivery Systems: Promising Approaches in Ocular Drug Delivery

“…Consequently, frequent injections are necessary, introducing operational risks such as conjunctival edema and subconjunctival hemorrhage [ 34 ]. The remaining periocular application methods, including posterior juxta scleral, retrobulbar, peribulbar, and sub-tenon applications, are primarily employed for anesthesia during ocular surgery [ 35 ]. It is noteworthy, however, that periocular administration still struggles to deliver an adequate amount of drugs to the retina due to losses occurring in the periocular space, the BRB, and the choroidal circulation, among other factors [ 33 , 34 , 35 ].…”

Recent Advances in Nanotechnology for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

“…As a result, these systems enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of the drug [ 65 ]. Many nano-based DDSs with distinct and specific characteristics have been developed so far [ 66 ].…”

“…Nanosuspension technology offers a secure and efficient method of delivering hydrophobic drugs to the ocular surface. However, like nanoemulsions, enhancing the physical stability of these nanocarriers is crucial for their practicality [ 66 , 78 ]. For instance, in the study conducted by Wu et al, the chitosan-modified mycophenolate mofetil nanosuspension showed decreased drug clearance compared to the non-chitosan-modified nanosuspensions [ 80 ].…”