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Published on: February 13, 2016
Light-responsive coumarin-functionalised nanogels for metformin delivery
Hend A M Abdelmohsen1, David L Rochester2, Algy Kazlauciunas3
1Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire LA1 4YB, UK; Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, Lancashire LA1 4YW, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, African Union Organization Street, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt.
A novel light-responsive nanogel system delivers metformin to treat corneal neovascularization. This minimally invasive approach offers a promising alternative to repeated injections for severe ocular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Corneal neovascularization is a severe ocular disease with limited treatment options.
- Current therapies involve repeated antiangiogenic drug injections, leading to significant side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a light-responsive nanogel-based drug delivery system for treating corneal neovascularization.
- To utilize photocleavable coumarin-metformin conjugates for controlled drug release.
Main Methods:
- Designed and produced 18 nanogel formulations, optimizing for size (197-226 nm) and electrical stability.
- Characterized two optimal formulations (CM9 and CM15) for drug loading (≈71-78 µg/mg) and release efficiency.
- Evaluated metformin release and antiangiogenic effects in vitro using a HUVEC model.
Main Results:
- Two stable nanogel formulations (CM9 and CM15) were successfully produced with high yields.
- Achieved efficient drug loading and up to 92% metformin release on demand with light stimulation.
- Demonstrated suppression of new blood vessel growth in vitro by light-triggered metformin release.
Conclusions:
- Developed a minimally invasive, light-responsive nanogel system for targeted drug delivery.
- This photocleavable drug release system shows potential for treating ocular diseases like corneal neovascularization.
- Advances the development of novel therapeutic strategies for managing severe eye conditions.
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