Evaluation of <i>in-situ</i> gel-forming eye drop containing bacteriophage against <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> keratoconjunctivitis <i>in vivo </i>

Abstract

<i><b>Introduction:</b></i> Eradication of <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> has become increasingly difficult due to its remarkable capacity to resist antibiotics. Bacteriophages have been suggested as an alternative treatment for bacterial infections. <i><b>Methods:</b> In-situ</i> gel-forming eye drop containing phage against <i>P. aeruginosa</i> keratoconjunctivitis was prepared. The Cystoviridae phage was formulated as <i>in-situ</i> gel-forming formulation which is a solution formulation but turns into gel when it contacts the eye. Therapeutic effectiveness of the <i>in-situ</i> gel forming formulation was evaluated by histological examination on day 12 post-infection. <i><b>Results:</b></i> The viscosity of selected formulation increased when it was instilled into the eye. The histological results showed edema, abscesses, and destruction of the stromal structure of cornea in groups where no in-situ gel-forming formulation was used. In the group where in-situ gel forming formulation was used, re-epithelialization and normal corneal structure were observed. <i><b>Conclusion:</b> In-situ</i> gel-forming ophthalmic formulation containing phage can be effective in the treatment of <i>P. aeruginosa</i> keratoconjunctivitis.