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Published on: October 17, 2025
The visualisation of vitreous using surface modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles
David Y S Chau1, Naing L Tint, Russell J Collighan
1Wolfson Centre for Stem Cells, Tissue Engineering and Modelling, Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|May 8, 2010
Summary
Transglutaminase-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles effectively visualize vitreous during vitrectomy. This novel method offers an alternative to triamcinolone suspension, reducing pharmacological effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Triamcinolone suspension is used to visualize vitreous during vitrectomy but has pharmacological effects.
- Biodegradable microparticles offer a potential alternative for vitreous visualization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles as a tool for vitreous visualization during vitrectomy.
- To compare the efficacy of PLGA microparticles with triamcinolone suspension in enhancing vitreous visualization.
Main Methods:
- PLGA microparticles were fabricated using emulsion techniques.
- Particles were assessed for size, shape, and surface topography using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- The adhesive properties and visualization efficacy of modified (transglutaminase-coated) and unmodified PLGA microparticles were tested in an in vitro porcine vitreous model.
Main Results:
- Unmodified PLGA microparticles showed poor adhesion to vitreous and were easily irrigated.
- Transglutaminase-coated PLGA microparticles exhibited significantly improved adhesion and comparable visualization efficacy to triamcinolone suspension.
- The modified microparticles selectively adhered to vitreous without binding to the corneal endothelium.
Conclusions:
- Transglutaminase-modified PLGA microparticles represent a novel and effective method for visualizing vitreous during vitrectomy.
- This approach offers a non-pharmacological alternative to triamcinolone suspension, potentially reducing side effects.
- The biodegradable nature and selective adhesion of these microparticles make them a promising tool for ophthalmic surgery.
