Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 15, 2026
07:12
Spatio-Temporal In Vivo Imaging of Ocular Drug Delivery Systems using Fiberoptic Confocal Laser Microendoscopy
Published on: September 27, 2021
2.8K
Light activated liposomes: Functionality and prospects in ocular drug delivery
Tatu Lajunen1, Riikka Nurmi1, Leena Kontturi2
1Centre for Drug Research, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland.
Summary
Light-activated liposomes offer controlled ocular drug delivery for retinal and choroidal conditions. This technology enables targeted drug release, overcoming major challenges in ophthalmic drug development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Drug Delivery
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Ocular drug delivery to the retina and choroid presents significant challenges in pharmaceutical development.
- Liposome technology offers potential for novel delivery routes, extended drug action, and intracellular delivery in ophthalmology.
- Controlled drug release from liposomes is crucial for effective ocular therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review light-activated liposomal systems for ophthalmic drug delivery.
- To discuss the application of these systems in addressing challenges in delivering drugs to the eye.
- To highlight the potential of indocyanine green loaded liposomes for targeted ocular drug release.
Main Methods:
- Review of technical advances in light-activated drug release systems.
- Focus on liposome technology for controlled drug release in ophthalmic applications.
- Evaluation of indocyanine green loaded liposomes as a promising approach.
Main Results:
- Light activation provides a method for controlled, site-specific drug release within the eye.
- Indocyanine green loaded liposomes demonstrate safe materials and effective light-triggered release of various molecules.
- Liposomal systems show promise for overcoming ocular drug delivery barriers.
Conclusions:
- Light-activated liposomes represent a viable strategy for advanced ocular drug delivery.
- This technology holds potential for improved treatment of retinal and choroidal diseases.
- Further development of these systems could significantly impact ophthalmic therapeutics.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Ophthalmic Drug Delivery Systems
155
Ophthalmic drug delivery faces major limitations due to poor absorption across the corneal membrane. This process is primarily driven by diffusion and is influenced by two main factors: the physicochemical properties of the drug and tear drainage. Most ophthalmic drugs, such as pilocarpine, epinephrine, atropine, and local anesthetics, are weak bases. They are typically formulated at an acidic pH to enhance chemical stability. However, this leads to high ionization, reducing their ability to...
155
01:27Bioavailability Enhancement: Drug Permeability Enhancement
291
After oral administration, poor permeability often limits the rate at which drugs are absorbed through the intestinal epithelium. Enhancing drug permeability is crucial for effective therapy, and several strategies have been developed to overcome this challenge.One effective strategy involves the use of lipid-based formulations. These formulations enhance dissolution and solubility, targeting physiological mechanisms to increase drug absorption. This includes stimulating bile salt secretion,...
291
01:24Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
71
Site-targeted drug delivery systems enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity and treatment costs. Unlike conventional methods, these systems ensure precise drug delivery, improving bioavailability and reducing side effects. Targeted drug delivery is classified into three levels. First-order targeting directs drugs to the capillary beds of specific organs or tissues. Second-order targets specific cell types, such as tumor cells, using receptor-mediated interactions.
71
01:24Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
79
Polymeric carriers enhance targeted drug delivery by increasing efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. These carriers comprise a biodegradable polymeric backbone integrated with functional elements that enable targeting, improve physicochemical properties, and regulate drug release.Targeting MechanismsThe targeting ability of polymeric carriers is mediated by a homing device, which is a molecular recognition component designed to selectively bind to specific tissues or cells. Monoclonal...
79
01:30Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Stimuli-Activated
73
Stimuli-activated drug delivery systems are designed to release drugs in response to specific physical, chemical, or biological stimuli. These systems often utilize hydrogels—three-dimensional, hydrophilic polymer networks capable of swelling in aqueous environments and retaining significant fluid volumes. Upon exposure to particular stimuli, these hydrogels undergo structural transitions that allow the embedded drug to be released. Due to this adaptive behavior, such systems are also...
73