NeuProIO: A dual-Action Solid Drug Nanoparticle Topical Formulation for Simultaneous Intraocular Pressure Reduction...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, driven by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) damaging the optic nerve.
• Current topical glaucoma treatments often lack direct neuroprotection and face challenges in delivering drugs to the posterior eye.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop NeuProIO, a dual-action nanoparticle (NP) eye drop for simultaneous IOP reduction and neuroprotection in glaucoma.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of NeuProIO, combining maprotiline (MAP) for neuroprotection and betaxolol (BX) for IOP lowering.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of dual-drug solid drug NPs (MAP/BX NPs) using flash nanoprecipitation.
• Assessment of NeuProIO stability, ocular biocompatibility, and corneal transport.
• Evaluation of IOP control, posterior segment drug delivery, and neuroprotective effects in a glaucoma mouse model.

Main Results:

• NeuProIO demonstrated improved stability, biocompatibility, and corneal transport compared to conventional eye drops.
• Single topical dosing achieved sustained IOP control (>15% reduction) for 72 hours.
• MAP/BX NPs significantly enhanced posterior segment delivery of MAP, leading to improved neuroprotection, including greater ganglion cell complex thickness and retinal ganglion cell survival.

Conclusions:

• NeuProIO offers a promising dual-action strategy for glaucoma treatment, addressing both IOP and neurodegeneration.
• The nanoparticle formulation enhances drug delivery and efficacy, potentially redefining glaucoma management and improving patient outcomes.