Challenges and opportunities for drug delivery to the posterior of the eye. Issue 8 (August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cabrera, Fernando J.; Wang, Daniel C.; Reddy, Kartik; Acharya, Ghanashyam; Shin, Crystal S.
• Is Part Of: Drug discovery today. Volume 24:Issue 8(2019)
• Page Start: 1679
• Page End: 1684
• Publication Date: 2019-08
• Subjects: Drugs -- Design -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Research -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.05.035
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-6446

Abstract

Highlights: The development of efficacious ocular drug delivery systems to treat diseases of the back of the eye faces many challenges due to the unique anatomy and physiology of the eye. Nanotechnology in ophthalmic formulations may improve the therapeutic efficacy of some drug therapies. The development of minimally or noninvasive drug delivery systems shows positive preclinical outcomes in animal models. For the successful clinical translation of any ocular drug delivery technology, the use of appropriate animal models is key. Abstract : Drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye remains challenging even though the eye is readily accessible. Its unique and complex anatomy and physiology contribute to the limited options for drug delivery via non-invasive topical treatment, which is the prevalent ophthalmic treatment. To treat the most common retinal diseases, intravitreal (IVT) injection has been a common and effective therapy. With the advancement of nanotechnologies, novel formulations and drug delivery systems are being developed to treat posterior segment diseases. Here, we discuss the recent advancement in ocular delivery systems, including-sustained release formulations, IVT implants, and preclinical topical formulations, and the challenges faced in their clinical translation.