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Published on: September 12, 2014
Prevention of lens epithelial cell growth in vitro using mibefradil-containing PLGA micro particles
Arne Weidmann1, Sabine Kwittner, Ria Beck
1Biomedical Research Centre, Cell Biology, University of Rostock, Schillingallee 69, D-18057 Rostock, Germany.
Abstract:
The prevention of the posterior capsule opacification is still unsolved. To interfere with proliferating cells the T-type calcium channel antagonist Mibefradil was immobilized in poly-lactic-co-glycolic-acid micro particles which were fixed at a capsular tension ring and tested in a human organ culture model as well as in human lens cells HLE-B3 in vitro. It is feasible to get a release significantly affecting cell viability and growth evaluated by MTT test and cell cycle analysis. In addition, Bionas(®) sensor chips were used for time-dependent adhesion experiments in living lens cells. Interestingly, the concentration of Mibefradil which inhibited subconfluent cells is not effective in confluent cells. This is an important feature for the protection of the intact tissue in the eye.
Insights
Preventing posterior capsule opacification remains a challenge. Mibefradil released from microparticles on a capsular tension ring effectively inhibited lens cell growth, showing promise for eye surgery applications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is a common complication after cataract surgery.
- Current methods for PCO prevention are insufficient.
- Developing novel drug delivery systems for sustained drug release is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of Mibefradil, a T-type calcium channel antagonist, in preventing posterior capsule opacification.
- To evaluate the controlled release of Mibefradil from poly-lactic-co-glycolic-acid (PLGA) microparticles.
- To assess the impact of Mibefradil on lens cell proliferation and viability.
Main Methods:
- Mibefradil was immobilized in PLGA microparticles and attached to a capsular tension ring.
- Experiments were conducted using a human organ culture model and human lens (HLE-B3) cells in vitro.
- Cell viability and growth were assessed using MTT assays and cell cycle analysis.
- Time-dependent cell adhesion was studied using Bionas® sensor chips.
Main Results:
- Mibefradil release from PLGA microparticles significantly affected lens cell viability and growth.
- The drug concentration effective against subconfluent cells was not effective against confluent cells.
- This differential effect suggests a potential for targeted PCO prevention without harming intact ocular tissues.
Conclusions:
- Immobilizing Mibefradil in PLGA microparticles on a capsular tension ring is a feasible approach for PCO prevention.
- The study demonstrates the potential of controlled drug release systems in ophthalmic surgery.
- Mibefradil's differential effect on cell proliferation offers a promising strategy for protecting ocular tissues during cataract surgery.

