Self-implantable double-layered micro-drug-reservoirs for efficient and controlled ocular drug delivery

TLDR

Eye diseases and injuries pose a major global clinical problem, and effective ocular drug delivery is hindered by ocular barriers. The study presents an eye patch with detachable microneedles designed to improve ocular drug delivery. The microneedles penetrate ocular surface tissue and act as implanted micro‑reservoirs for controlled drug release. The double‑layered micro‑reservoirs deliver a biphasic release that achieved ~90% reduction in corneal neovascularization, synergistically combining rapid diclofenac and sustained DC101, and the minimally invasive patch offers a promising home‑based treatment.

Abstract

Abstract Eye diseases and injuries impose a significant clinical problem worldwide. Safe and effective ocular drug delivery is, however, challenging due to the presence of ocular barriers. Here we report a strategy using an eye patch equipped with an array of detachable microneedles. These microneedles can penetrate the ocular surface tissue, and serve as implanted micro-reservoirs for controlled drug delivery. The biphasic drug release kinetics enabled by the double-layered micro-reservoirs largely enhances therapeutic efficacy. Using corneal neovascularization as the disease model, we show that delivery of an anti-angiogenic monoclonal antibody (DC101) by such eye patch produces ~90% reduction of neovascular area. Furthermore, quick release of an anti-inflammatory compound (diclofenac) followed by a sustained release of DC101 provides synergistic therapeutic outcome. The eye patch application is easy and minimally invasive to ensure good patient compliance. Such intraocular drug delivery strategy promises effective home-based treatment of many eye diseases.