Chitosan coated PLA nanoparticles for ophthalmic delivery: characterization, in-vitro and in-vivo study in rabbit eye

The objective of the present study is to develop a poly (D, L-lactic acid) (PLA) nano-carrier for topical ocular applications. PLA nanoparticles (PLA-NPs) with 5-fluorouracil were prepared using varying concentration and molecular weight of PLA to regulate the particle size. The dimension and shape of nanoparticles were verified by using dynamic light scattering (DLS), atomic force microscope (AFM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Ex-vivo permeation study was conducted by goat and rabbit excised cornea. In-vivo experiment was conducted in rabbit eye and 5-FU concentration was measured in aqueous and vitreous humor by HPLC. In-vitro experiments indicated a diffusion controlled release of 5-FU. No significant interaction was observed in between mucin and PLA NPs that measured in terms of viscosity change. Ex-vivo permeation was significantly higher with rabbit cornea as compared to goat cornea. PLA and CH-PLA DNPs showed increased level of 5-FU as comparison to 5-FU solution. In-vivo study showed significantly higher concentration in case of uncoated and CH coated PLA nanoparticles in rabbit eye as compared to free 5-FU solution. PLA nanoparticle was found non-irritant in nature by modified Draize test.