Laser-Triggered Liposomal Nanoparticles Combining Antiangiogenic and Photodynamic Therapy for Ocular
Jianshuo Su1, Shufan Liu1, Zhuang Ding1
1Shandong Key Laboratory of Applied Technology for Protein and Peptide Drugs, Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, Shandong 252059, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Ophthalmic drug delivery faces significant challenges, including the poor solubility of hydrophobic agents, as well as limited permeability and rapid clearance caused by the eye's intricate anatomical and physiological barriers. In this study, laser-triggered core-shell structural liposomal nanoparticles (Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp) were designed for precise drug delivery and offered a potential treatment strategy for ocular neovascularization by incorporating both antiangiogenic and photodynamic therapy. Laser-triggered in vitro release and intensive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production of Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp were noted. Furthermore, Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp markedly suppressed cell proliferation and tube formation of EA.hy.926 cells while revealing minimal toxicity toward human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). Besides, the liposomal nanoparticle system exhibited extended corneal residence time exceeding 4 h, significantly facilitating drug bioavailability. Through their combined anti-inflammatory, photodynamic, and anti-VEGF effects, Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp successfully maintained corneal clarity and prevented alkali-burn-induced corneal neovascularization in animal models. The findings suggested that this multifunctional nanotherapeutic system represented a potential breakthrough for treating neovascular ocular diseases and offered significant advantages over traditional eye medications through its extended duration of action and improved therapeutic response.
Insights
This study introduces novel laser-triggered liposomal nanoparticles for treating eye diseases. These nanoparticles enhance drug delivery, reduce inflammation, and prevent neovascularization, offering a promising alternative to traditional eye medications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Ophthalmic drug delivery is hindered by poor drug solubility and the eye's natural barriers.
- Hydrophobic drugs and conventional treatments face challenges with permeability and rapid clearance.
- Ocular neovascularization requires advanced therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design laser-triggered core-shell liposomal nanoparticles (Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp) for precise ophthalmic drug delivery.
- To investigate the potential of Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp as a treatment for ocular neovascularization.
- To combine antiangiogenic and photodynamic therapy within a single nanocarrier system.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of laser-triggered core-shell structural liposomal nanoparticles (Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp).
- Evaluation of *in vitro* drug release and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
- Assessment of cytotoxicity on human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) and efficacy on EA.hy.926 cells.
- Measurement of corneal residence time and *in vivo* efficacy in alkali-burn-induced neovascularization models.
Main Results:
- Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp demonstrated laser-triggered release and significant ROS generation.
- The nanoparticles effectively suppressed cell proliferation and tube formation with minimal toxicity to HCECs.
- Corneal residence time exceeded 4 hours, enhancing drug bioavailability.
- The system successfully maintained corneal clarity and prevented neovascularization in animal models.
Conclusions:
- The developed multifunctional nanotherapeutic system shows significant potential for treating neovascular ocular diseases.
- Lips-NPs@Axi/Vp offer advantages over traditional treatments due to extended action and improved therapeutic outcomes.
- This approach represents a breakthrough in ophthalmic drug delivery and therapy for neovascular eye conditions.
