FIRST STEPS TOWARDS A DRUG-ELUTING INTRAOCULAR LENS.

Abstract

Purpose: Development, characterization and drug release study of one-layer and two-layers thin films based on organic polymers and dexamethasone in order to examine their applicability on intraocular lenses and their function as intraocular drug delivery systems. Development and study of the thin films directly on the surface of intraocular lenses.

Methods: Four groups of thin films were prepared by the method of spin coating on the surface of intra-ocular lenses: group A, consisting of two layers of in a 2:1 ratio with dexamethasone), group B with two layers in a 3:1 ratio with dexamethasone, group C with one layer in a 2:1 ratio with dexamethasone and group D with one layer in a 3:1 ratio with dexamethasone. Organic polymers served as matrix for all the films. The films were studied with the use of AFM and ellipsometry. Release rate of dexamethasone was studied for a period of ten weeks.

Results: Conclusions have been reached in relevance to the surface structure and roughness of the films. Groups A and B demonstrated the formation of aggregates of dexamethasone. The monolayer films of groups C and D formed nanopores, in agreement with previous findings. The ellipsometry study showed transparent samples. The study of drug release demonstrated a smooth release for the first 6 weeks.

Conclusions: The films exhibited properties (transparency, release duration, release curve) that serve the purpose of using them as systems for intraocular drug delivery. Further research includes development of the drug delivery system directly on the surface of the IOL.Direct development of the films on the surface of intraocular lenses is possible.

Keywords: 567 intraocular lens • 608 nanomedicine • 607 nanotechnology