1
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Paleel F, Qin M, Tagalakis AD, Yu-Wai-Man C, Lamprou DA. Manufacturing and characterisation of 3D-printed sustained-release Timolol implants for glaucoma treatment. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01589-8. [PMID: 38578377 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01589-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Timolol maleate (TML) is a beta-blocker drug that is commonly used to lower the intraocular pressure in glaucoma. This study focused on using a 3D printing (3DP) method for the manufacturing of an ocular, implantable, sustained-release drug delivery system (DDS). Polycaprolactone (PCL), and PCL with 5 or 10% TML implants were manufactured using a one-step 3DP process. Their physicochemical characteristics were analysed using light microscopy, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) / thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The in vitro drug release was evaluated by UV-spectrophotometry. Finally, the effect of the implants on cell viability in human trabecular meshwork cells was assessed. All the implants showed a smooth surface. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the implants remained thermally stable at the temperatures used for the printing, and FTIR studies showed that there were no significant interactions between PCL and TML. Both concentrations (5 & 10%) of TML achieved sustained release from the implants over the 8-week study period. All implants were non-cytotoxic to human trabecular cells. This study shows proof of concept that 3DP can be used to print biocompatible and personalised ocular implantable sustained-release DDSs for the treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fathima Paleel
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 7BL, Belfast, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, SE1 7EH, London, UK
| | - Mengqi Qin
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, SE1 7EH, London, UK
| | | | - Cynthia Yu-Wai-Man
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, SE1 7EH, London, UK.
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2
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Rupenthal ID, Agarwal P. Progress in Ocular Drug Delivery: Challenges and Constraints. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024; 284:267-288. [PMID: 37620616 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The eye has several dynamic and static barriers in place to limit the entry of foreign substances including therapeutics. As such, efficient drug delivery, especially to posterior segment tissues, has been challenging. This chapter describes the anatomical and physiological challenges associated with ocular drug delivery before discussing constraints with regard to formulation parameters. Finally, it gives an overview of advanced drug delivery technologies with a specific focus on recently marketed and late-stage clinical trial products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilva D Rupenthal
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Priyanka Agarwal
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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3
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Tsung TH, Tsai YC, Lee HP, Chen YH, Lu DW. Biodegradable Polymer-Based Drug-Delivery Systems for Ocular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12976. [PMID: 37629157 PMCID: PMC10455181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular drug delivery is a challenging field due to the unique anatomical and physiological barriers of the eye. Biodegradable polymers have emerged as promising tools for efficient and controlled drug delivery in ocular diseases. This review provides an overview of biodegradable polymer-based drug-delivery systems for ocular diseases with emphasis on the potential for biodegradable polymers to overcome the limitations of conventional methods, allowing for sustained drug release, improved bioavailability, and targeted therapy. Natural and synthetic polymers are both discussed, highlighting their biodegradability and biocompatibility. Various formulation strategies, such as nanoparticles, hydrogels, and microemulsions, among others, are investigated, detailing preparation methods, drug encapsulation, and clinical applications. The focus is on anterior and posterior segment drug delivery, covering glaucoma, corneal disorders, ocular inflammation, retinal diseases, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Safety considerations, such as biocompatibility evaluations, in vivo toxicity studies, and clinical safety, are addressed. Future perspectives encompass advancements, regulatory considerations, and clinical translation challenges. In conclusion, biodegradable polymers offer potential for efficient and targeted ocular drug delivery, improving therapeutic outcomes while reducing side effects. Further research is needed to optimize formulation strategies and address regulatory requirements for successful clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ta-Hsin Tsung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (T.-H.T.); (Y.-C.T.); (H.-P.L.); (Y.-H.C.)
| | - Yu-Chien Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (T.-H.T.); (Y.-C.T.); (H.-P.L.); (Y.-H.C.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan 325, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Pei Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (T.-H.T.); (Y.-C.T.); (H.-P.L.); (Y.-H.C.)
| | - Yi-Hao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (T.-H.T.); (Y.-C.T.); (H.-P.L.); (Y.-H.C.)
| | - Da-Wen Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (T.-H.T.); (Y.-C.T.); (H.-P.L.); (Y.-H.C.)
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4
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Rizzarelli P, Rapisarda M. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption and Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry of Microbial and Synthetic Biodegradable Polymers. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102356. [PMID: 37242931 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The in-depth structural and compositional investigation of biodegradable polymeric materials, neat or partly degraded, is crucial for their successful applications. Obviously, an exhaustive structural analysis of all synthetic macromolecules is essential in polymer chemistry to confirm the accomplishment of a preparation procedure, identify degradation products originating from side reactions, and monitor chemical-physical properties. Advanced mass spectrometry (MS) techniques have been increasingly applied in biodegradable polymer studies with a relevant role in their further development, valuation, and extension of application fields. However, single-stage MS is not always sufficient to identify unambiguously the polymer structure. Thus, tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) has more recently been employed for detailed structure characterization and in degradation and drug release monitoring of polymeric samples, among which are biodegradable polymers. This review aims to run through the investigations carried out by the soft ionization technique matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) MS/MS in biodegradable polymers and present the resulting information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Rizzarelli
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Rapisarda
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
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5
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Bigdeli A, Makhmalzadeh BS, Feghhi M, SoleimaniBiatiani E. Cationic liposomes as promising vehicles for timolol/brimonidine combination ocular delivery in glaucoma: formulation development and in vitro/in vivo evaluation. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:1035-1047. [PMID: 36477776 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01266-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease in which the pressure inside the eye increases and leads to damage to the optic nerve, and eventually causes blindness. In this disease, it is often necessary to use a multi-drug treatment system. There is a fixed combination of timolol maleate and brimonidine tartrate among the combination drugs in glaucoma treatment. Liposomes are one of the most important targeted drug delivery systems to eye tissue, which leads to improved drug permeability and durability in ocular tissue. In this study, thin layer hydration was used to make liposomal formulations containing timolol maleate (TM) and brimonidine tartrate (BT). After the necessary evaluations, one of the eight initial formulations was selected as an optimization formulation. Then, characteristics such as drug loading percentage, particle size, pH, zeta potential, and drug release were performed on the optimized formulation. The study of reducing intraocular pressure was performed on the optimized formulation. This study in total was performed on 18 rabbits in three groups. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) polymer was injected into the anterior chamber to experimental induce glaucoma. The selected formulation was within the acceptable range of ocular products in terms of physical properties. HPMC polymer injection successfully induced glaucoma in the animal model, resulting in a 79% increase in intraocular pressure. The results showed that the liposomal formulation significantly reduced the intraocular pressure compared to the simple formulation of the aqueous solution, and both formulations were able to significantly reduce the intraocular pressure compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The results also showed that liposomal formulation has a therapeutic effect in reducing intraocular pressure. It seems that the selected liposomal formulation made by thin layer hydration can act as a suitable drug carrier to increase the effectiveness of the fixed combination of timolol maleate and brimonidine tartrate and be proposed as a new drug formulation for targeted and controlled drug delivery in the treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Bigdeli
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Golestan avenue, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Behzad Sharif Makhmalzadeh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Golestan avenue, Ahvaz, Iran.
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Mostafa Feghhi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Emad SoleimaniBiatiani
- Department of Ophthalmology, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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6
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Wu KY, Ashkar S, Jain S, Marchand M, Tran SD. Breaking Barriers in Eye Treatment: Polymeric Nano-Based Drug-Delivery System for Anterior Segment Diseases and Glaucoma. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15061373. [PMID: 36987154 PMCID: PMC10054733 DOI: 10.3390/polym15061373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The eye has anatomical structures that function as robust static and dynamic barriers, limiting the penetration, residence time, and bioavailability of medications administered topically. The development of polymeric nano-based drug-delivery systems (DDS) could be the solution to these challenges: it can pass through ocular barriers, offering higher bioavailability of administered drugs to targeted tissues that are otherwise inaccessible; it can stay in ocular tissues for longer periods of time, requiring fewer drug administrations; and it can be made up of polymers that are biodegradable and nano-sized, minimizing the undesirable effects of the administered molecules. Therefore, therapeutic innovations in polymeric nano-based DDS have been widely explored for ophthalmic drug-delivery applications. In this review, we will give a comprehensive overview of polymeric nano-based drug-delivery systems (DDS) used in the treatment of ocular diseases. We will then examine the current therapeutic challenges of various ocular diseases and analyze how different types of biopolymers can potentially enhance our therapeutic options. A literature review of the preclinical and clinical studies published between 2017 and 2022 was conducted. Thanks to the advances in polymer science, the ocular DDS has rapidly evolved, showing great promise to help clinicians better manage patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Said Ashkar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Shrieda Jain
- Department of Experimental Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Michael Marchand
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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7
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Hashikawa Y, Kato Y, Kaji H, Abe T, Nagai N. A comparative study between a transscleral sustained-release device and eyedrops on intraocular distribution of carteolol hydrochloride. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14392. [PMID: 36942217 PMCID: PMC10023953 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to develop a sustained-release device for carteolol hydrochloride (CH) and investigate any potential difference in the intraocular distribution of this agent between the transscleral administration of the device and treatment with eyedrops. The device was formulated with photocurable resin, poly (ethyleneglycol) dimethacrylate, to fit within the curve of the rabbit eyeball. In vitro study showed that CH was released in a sustained-release manner for 2 weeks. The concentration of CH in the retina, choroid/retinal pigment epithelium, sclera, iris, and aqueous humor was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Transscleral administration was able to deliver CH to the posterior segment (i.e., retina and choroid/retinal pigment epithelium) rather than the anterior segment (i.e., aqueous humor), while eyedrops delivered CH only to the anterior segment. Transscleral administration could deliver CH to aqueous humor at half the concentration versus treatment with eyedrops and reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) at 1 day after implantation; however, the IOP-lowering effect was not sustained thereafter. In conclusion, transscleral drug delivery may be a useful method for the reduction of IOP. Notably, the aqueous concentration must be equal to that delivered by the eyedrops, and this approach might be preferable for drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiko Hashikawa
- Division of Clinical Cell Therapy, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Yuki Kato
- Division of Clinical Cell Therapy, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kaji
- Department of Biomechanics, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Abe
- Division of Clinical Cell Therapy, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Nagai
- Division of Clinical Cell Therapy, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine (ART), Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
- Corresponding author.
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8
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Leung KS, Shirazi S, Cooper LF, Ravindran S. Biomaterials and Extracellular Vesicle Delivery: Current Status, Applications and Challenges. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182851. [PMID: 36139426 PMCID: PMC9497093 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we will discuss the current status of extracellular vesicle (EV) delivery via biopolymeric scaffolds for therapeutic applications and the challenges associated with the development of these functionalized scaffolds. EVs are cell-derived membranous structures and are involved in many physiological processes. Naïve and engineered EVs have much therapeutic potential, but proper delivery systems are required to prevent non-specific and off-target effects. Targeted and site-specific delivery using polymeric scaffolds can address these limitations. EV delivery with scaffolds has shown improvements in tissue remodeling, wound healing, bone healing, immunomodulation, and vascular performance. Thus, EV delivery via biopolymeric scaffolds is becoming an increasingly popular approach to tissue engineering. Although there are many types of natural and synthetic biopolymers, the overarching goal for many tissue engineers is to utilize biopolymers to restore defects and function as well as support host regeneration. Functionalizing biopolymers by incorporating EVs works toward this goal. Throughout this review, we will characterize extracellular vesicles, examine various biopolymers as a vehicle for EV delivery for therapeutic purposes, potential mechanisms by which EVs exert their effects, EV delivery for tissue repair and immunomodulation, and the challenges associated with the use of EVs in scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasey S. Leung
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Sajjad Shirazi
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Lyndon F. Cooper
- School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Sriram Ravindran
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Correspondence:
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A long-acting formulation of rifabutin is effective for prevention and treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4455. [PMID: 35941109 PMCID: PMC9360445 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a communicable disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Successful treatment requires strict adherence to drug regimens for prolonged periods of time. Long-acting (LA) delivery systems have the potential to improve adherence. Here, we show the development of LA injectable drug formulations of the anti-TB drug rifabutin made of biodegradable polymers and biocompatible solvents that solidifies after subcutaneous injection. Addition of amphiphilic compounds increases drug solubility, allowing to significantly increase formulation drug load. Solidified implants have organized microstructures that change with formulation composition. Higher drug load results in smaller pore size that alters implant erosion and allows sustained drug release. The translational relevance of these observations in BALB/c mice is demonstrated by (1) delivering high plasma drug concentrations for 16 weeks, (2) preventing acquisition of Mtb infection, and (3) clearing acute Mtb infection from the lung and other tissues.
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10
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Darie-Niță RN, Râpă M, Frąckowiak S. Special Features of Polyester-Based Materials for Medical Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14050951. [PMID: 35267774 PMCID: PMC8912343 DOI: 10.3390/polym14050951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This article presents current possibilities of using polyester-based materials in hard and soft tissue engineering, wound dressings, surgical implants, vascular reconstructive surgery, ophthalmology, and other medical applications. The review summarizes the recent literature on the key features of processing methods and potential suitable combinations of polyester-based materials with improved physicochemical and biological properties that meet the specific requirements for selected medical fields. The polyester materials used in multiresistant infection prevention, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as aspects covering environmental concerns, current risks and limitations, and potential future directions are also addressed. Depending on the different features of polyester types, as well as their specific medical applications, it can be generally estimated that 25–50% polyesters are used in the medical field, while an increase of at least 20% has been achieved since the COVID-19 pandemic started. The remaining percentage is provided by other types of natural or synthetic polymers; i.e., 25% polyolefins in personal protection equipment (PPE).
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Nicoleta Darie-Niță
- Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Maria Râpă
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Stanisław Frąckowiak
- Faculty of Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology, 50-013 Wrocław, Poland;
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11
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Allyn MM, Luo RH, Hellwarth EB, Swindle-Reilly KE. Considerations for Polymers Used in Ocular Drug Delivery. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:787644. [PMID: 35155469 PMCID: PMC8831705 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.787644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Age-related eye diseases are becoming more prevalent. A notable increase has been seen in the most common causes including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and cataract. Current clinical treatments vary from tissue replacement with polymers to topical eye drops and intravitreal injections. Research and development efforts have increased using polymers for sustained release to the eye to overcome treatment challenges, showing promise in improving drug release and delivery, patient experience, and treatment compliance. Polymers provide unique properties that allow for specific engineered devices to provide improved treatment options. Recent work has shown the utilization of synthetic and biopolymer derived biomaterials in various forms, with this review containing a focus on polymers Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for ocular use. METHODS This provides an overview of some prevalent synthetic polymers and biopolymers used in ocular delivery and their benefits, brief discussion of the various types and synthesis methods used, and administration techniques. Polymers approved by the FDA for different applications in the eye are listed and compared to new polymers being explored in the literature. This article summarizes research findings using polymers for ocular drug delivery from various stages: laboratory, preclinical studies, clinical trials, and currently approved. This review also focuses on some of the challenges to bringing these new innovations to the clinic, including limited selection of approved polymers. RESULTS Polymers help improve drug delivery by increasing solubility, controlling pharmacokinetics, and extending release. Several polymer classes including synthetic, biopolymer, and combinations were discussed along with the benefits and challenges of each class. The ways both polymer synthesis and processing techniques can influence drug release in the eye were discussed. CONCLUSION The use of biomaterials, specifically polymers, is a well-studied field for drug delivery, and polymers have been used as implants in the eye for over 75 years. Promising new ocular drug delivery systems are emerging using polymers an innovative option for treating ocular diseases because of their tunable properties. This review touches on important considerations and challenges of using polymers for sustained ocular drug delivery with the goal translating research to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M. Allyn
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Richard H. Luo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Elle B. Hellwarth
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Katelyn E. Swindle-Reilly
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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12
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Rahić O, Tucak A, Omerović N, Sirbubalo M, Hindija L, Hadžiabdić J, Vranić E. Novel Drug Delivery Systems Fighting Glaucoma: Formulation Obstacles and Solutions. Pharmaceutics 2020; 13:E28. [PMID: 33375224 PMCID: PMC7824381 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is considered to be one of the biggest health problems in the world. It is the main cause of preventable blindness due to its asymptomatic nature in the early stages on the one hand and patients' non-adherence on the other. There are several approaches in glaucoma treatment, whereby this has to be individually designed for each patient. The first-line treatment is medication therapy. However, taking into account numerous disadvantages of conventional ophthalmic dosage forms, intensive work has been carried out on the development of novel drug delivery systems for glaucoma. This review aims to provide an overview of formulation solutions and strategies in the development of in situ gel systems, nanosystems, ocular inserts, contact lenses, collagen corneal shields, ocular implants, microneedles, and iontophoretic devices. The results of studies confirming the effectiveness of the aforementioned drug delivery systems were also briefly presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ognjenka Rahić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Amina Tucak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Naida Omerović
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Merima Sirbubalo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Lamija Hindija
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Jasmina Hadžiabdić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Edina Vranić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
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13
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Taka E, Karavasili C, Bouropoulos N, Moschakis T, Andreadis DD, Zacharis CK, Fatouros DG. Ocular co-Delivery of Timolol and Brimonidine from a Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogel for the Treatment of Glaucoma: In Vitro and Ex Vivo Evaluation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:E126. [PMID: 32575910 PMCID: PMC7344471 DOI: 10.3390/ph13060126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective pharmacotherapy during glaucoma treatment depends on interventions that reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) and retain the IOP lowering effect for sufficient time so as to reduce dosing frequency and enhance patient adherence. Combination anti-glaucoma therapy and dosage forms that increase precorneal residence time could therefore constitute a promising therapeutic intervention. The in-situ gel forming self-assembling peptide ac-(RADA)4-CONH2 was evaluated as carrier for the ocular co-delivery of timolol maleate (TM) and brimonidine tartrate (BR). The hydrogel's microstructure and mechanical properties were assessed with atomic force microscopy and rheology, respectively. Drug diffusion from the hydrogel was evaluated in vitro in simulated tear fluid and ex vivo across porcine corneas and its effect on the treated corneas was assessed through physicochemical characterization and histological analysis. Results indicated that TM and BR co-delivery affected hydrogel's microstructure resulting in shorter nanofibers and a less rigid hydrogel matrix. Rapid and complete release of both drugs was achieved within 8 h, while a 2.8-fold and 5.4-fold higher corneal permeability was achieved for TM and BR, respectively. No significant alterations were induced in the structural integrity of the corneas treated with the hydrogel formulation, suggesting that self-assembling peptide hydrogels might serve as promising systems for combination anti-glaucoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissavet Taka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.T.); (D.G.F.)
| | - Christina Karavasili
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.T.); (D.G.F.)
| | - Nikolaos Bouropoulos
- Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Chemical Engineering and High Temperature Chemical Processes, GR-26504 Patras, Greece;
- Department of Materials Science, University of Patras, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Thomas Moschakis
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios D. Andreadis
- Department of Oral Medicine/Pathology, School of Dentistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Constantinos K. Zacharis
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios G. Fatouros
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.T.); (D.G.F.)
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Afifi M, Ahmed MK, Fathi AM, Uskoković V. Physical, electrochemical and biological evaluations of spin-coated ε-polycaprolactone thin films containing alumina/graphene/carbonated hydroxyapatite/titania for tissue engineering applications. Int J Pharm 2020; 585:119502. [PMID: 32505577 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Composite structures are at the frontier of materials science and engineering and polymeric/ceramic composites present one of their most prospective subsets. Prior studies have shown both improvements and deteriorations of properties of polymers upon the addition of ceramic phases to them, but not many studies have dealt with the direct comparison of chemically distinct inorganic additives. The goal of this study was to compare the properties of ε-polycaprolactone (PCL) thin films supplemented with alumina, graphene, carbonated hydroxyapatite or titania particles, individually, in identical amounts (12 wt%). The composite films were analyzed for their phase composition, grain size, morphology, surface roughness, porosity, cell response, mechanical properties and electrochemical performance. Each additive imparted one or more physical or biological properties onto PCL better than others. Thus, alumina increased the microhardness of the films better than any other additive, with the resulting values exceeding 10 MPa. It also led to the formation of a composite with the least porosity and the greatest stability to degradation in simulated body fluid based on open circuit potential (OCP) measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Titania made the surface of PCL roughest, which in combination with its high porosity explained why it was the most conducive to the growth of human fibroblasts, alongside being most prone to degradation in wet, corrosive environments and having the highest Poisson's ratio. Graphene, in contrast, made the surface of PCL smoothest and the bulk structure most porous, but also most conductive, with the OCP of -37 mV. The OCP of PCL supplemented with carbonated hydroxyapatite had the highest OCP of -134 mV and also the highest mechanical moduli, including the longitudinal (781 MPa), the shear (106 MPa), the bulk (639 MPa), and the elastic (300 MPa). The only benefit of the deposition of multilayered PCL films supplemented with all four inorganic additives was to enable a relatively high resistance to degradation. This study demonstrates that the properties of thin PCL films could be effectively optimized through the simple choice of appropriate inorganic additives dispersed in them. There is no single additive that proves ideal for improving all the properties of interest in PCL thin films, but their choice should be adjusted to the actual application. One such method of compositional optimization could prove crucial in the effort to develop biocomposites for superior performance in tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Afifi
- Ultrasonic Laboratory, National Institute of Standards, Giza, Egypt.
| | - M K Ahmed
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Suez University, Suez, Egypt.
| | - A M Fathi
- Physical Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Vuk Uskoković
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Irvine, USA
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