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Injectable Supramolecular Polymer-Nanoparticle Hydrogels for Cell and Drug Delivery Applications
Published on: February 7, 2021
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Injectable hydrogels for ophthalmic applications
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
Summary
Injectable hydrogels offer promising solutions for controlled drug delivery and tissue regeneration in ophthalmology. Further research is needed to overcome challenges for widespread clinical application in treating eye diseases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmic drug delivery
- Biomaterials science
- Regenerative medicine
Background:
- Growing demand for advanced eye therapies.
- Injectable hydrogels are emerging as versatile medical devices.
- Current applications include surgery sealants and tissue adhesives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the properties of injectable hydrogels.
- To summarize their applications in treating ophthalmic diseases.
- To discuss challenges for clinical implementation.
Main Methods:
- Review of injectable hydrogel properties.
- Summary of applications in age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and intraocular cancers.
- Discussion of current FDA-approved uses and ongoing research.
Main Results:
- Injectable hydrogels show potential as vitreous humor substitutes.
- Hydrogels are being investigated for delivery of drugs, factors, nanoparticles, and stem cells.
- Significant progress has been made, with some applications in pre-clinical or clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Injectable hydrogels hold significant promise for ophthalmic applications.
- Further research and development are crucial to address existing challenges.
- Successful clinical translation requires overcoming hurdles in safety and efficacy.
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