The visualisation of vitreous using surface modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles. Issue 5 (6th May 2010)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chau, David Y S; Tint, Naing L; Collighan, Russell J; Griffin, Martin; Dua, Harminder S; Shakesheff, Kevin M; Rose, Felicity R A J
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 94:Issue 5(2010)
• Page Start: 648
• Page End: 653
• Publication Date: 2010-05-06
• Subjects: Biodegradable polymers -- experimental & laboratory -- pharmacology -- polymer microparticles -- transglutaminase -- triamcinolone -- vitreous -- vitrectomy; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2009.163642
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: To demonstrate the potential use of in vitro poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles in comparison with triamcinolone suspension to aid visualisation of vitreous during anterior and posterior vitrectomy. Methods: PLGA microparticles (diameter 10–60 μm) were fabricated using single and/or double emulsion technique(s) and used untreated or following the surface adsorption of a protein (transglutaminase). Particle size, shape, morphology and surface topography were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and compared with a standard triamcinolone suspension. The efficacy of these microparticles to enhance visualisation of vitreous against the triamcinolone suspension was assessed using an in vitro set-up exploiting porcine vitreous. Results: Unmodified PLGA microparticles failed to adequately adhere to porcine vitreous and were readily washed out by irrigation. In contrast, modified transglutaminase-coated PLGA microparticles demonstrated a significant improvement in adhesiveness and were comparable to a triamcinolone suspension in their ability to enhance the visualisation of vitreous. This adhesive behaviour also demonstrated selectivity by not binding to the corneal endothelium. Conclusion: The use of transglutaminase-modified biodegradable PLGA microparticles represents a novel method of visualising vitreous and aiding vitrectomy. This method may provide a distinct alternative for the visualisation of vitreous whilst eliminating the pharmacological effects of triamcinolone acetonide suspension.