Random Copolyester-Based Delivery Systems for Tear Protein Therapeutics in Ocular Surface Disorders

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Ocular Drug Delivery
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Conventional ocular therapies for dry eye disease (DED) and corneal disorders suffer from poor bioavailability and patient adherence due to frequent eye drop administration.
• There is a need for advanced drug delivery systems that provide sustained and localized drug release for improved therapeutic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel poly-(butylene succinate/diglycolate) copolymer-based platforms for conjunctival drug delivery.
• To evaluate the drug loading and sustained release capabilities of these polymeric devices using therapeutic proteins.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of poly-(butylene succinate/diglycolate) copolymers (P-(BSxBDGy)) with varying molar ratios.
• Fabrication of prototype cylindrical drug delivery devices via microinjection molding.
• In vitro evaluation of protein release kinetics and cytotoxicity assays to assess biocompatibility.

Main Results:

• The synthesized copolymers exhibited suitable molecular structures, thermal, mechanical, and surface properties for ocular applications.
• Polymeric devices demonstrated sustained release of lysozyme and lactoferrin, with proteins maintaining structural integrity.
• In vitro cytotoxicity assays confirmed the biocompatibility of the materials, supporting cell viability.

Conclusions:

• Poly-(BS50BDG50) and P-(BS20BDG80) based devices show promise for ocular drug delivery due to their structural adaptability and controlled release kinetics.
• These platforms offer a potential solution for targeted and prolonged drug administration in ocular diseases requiring frequent treatment.
• The developed polymeric systems are compatible with biologically active macromolecules, indicating their therapeutic potential.