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A Benchtop Round Window Model for Studying Magnetic Nanoparticle Transport to the Inner Ear
Mukund M Goyal1, Sarek A Shen2, Mohamed Lehar2
1Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
The Laryngoscope
|February 21, 2024
Summary
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) show promise for inner ear drug delivery. Applying a magnetic field significantly enhances SPION transport across the round window membrane (RWM) model.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- The round window membrane (RWM) is a barrier to inner ear drug delivery.
- Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are explored as drug carriers.
- A preclinical RWM model is needed for evaluating nanoparticle delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a benchtop RWM model.
- To assess SPIONs for magnetically assisted drug delivery across the RWM.
- To investigate nanoparticle transport characteristics.
Main Methods:
- A 3D-printed dual chamber device was used with guinea pig RWM explants.
- Two sizes of SPIONs (NP-PEG600 and NP-PEG3000) were tested with and without a magnetic field.
- Histologic analysis included transmission electron microscopy and confocal microscopy.
Main Results:
- SPION transport across the RWM was quantified over 4 hours.
- Magnetic field application increased SPION transport by 45-50%.
- Nanoparticle localization was observed throughout RWM cellular layers.
Conclusions:
- The benchtop RWM model facilitates targeted investigation of nanoparticle transport.
- Magnetic field enhances SPION delivery in a size- and layer-dependent manner.
- SPIONs are effective vehicles for magnetically assisted RWM drug delivery.
