Considerations for nanoscale drug-delivery systems for the cornea

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Nanomedicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Corneal drug delivery faces challenges due to the eye's anatomy, epithelial barrier, and rapid clearance.
• Nanoscale systems show potential for sustained local drug release, improving therapeutic outcomes for corneal diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review critical considerations for developing corneal nanomedicine.
• To discuss cornea-specific biology, disease targets, and challenges in nanoparticle drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Review of anatomical features and drug transport barriers in the cornea (tear film, epithelium, stroma, endothelium).
• Analysis of physicochemical parameters influencing nanoparticle behavior, retention, penetration, distribution, and safety.
• Discussion of factors like sterility, osmolality, pH, regulatory aspects, and manufacturing.

Main Results:

• Nanoscale drug delivery systems can overcome limitations of conventional treatments, including poor residence time and solubility.
• Understanding cornea-specific biology is crucial for designing effective nanoparticle-based therapies.
• Key parameters for drug profiling, safety, and manufacturability must be addressed for successful nanomedicine development.

Conclusions:

• Nanoscale drug delivery systems represent an attractive strategy for treating corneal diseases effectively and safely.
• Optimized nanomedicine design can lead to sustained drug release and improved therapeutic efficacy in the cornea.
• This review provides a framework for developing advanced corneal nanomedicine, addressing biological and technical challenges.