Abstract
Purpose: :
Avastin is widely used as a treatment for choroidal neovascularization, however, requires frequent intravitreal injections. Gold nano-particles (AuNP) are biocompatible, have affinity for neovascularization and can be bound to proteins to provide extended release drug delivery in the eye. We determined the distribution and delivery profile of Avastin conjugated gold nano-particles (Av/AuNP) in the rat eye.
Methods: :
Av/AuNP were synthesized by one pot synthesis and characterized using standard physicochemical techniques. Their intraocular distribution was determined by angiography, neutron activation analysis and immunohistochemistry in the rat model. The duration of Avastin observed in rat eyes injected with Avastin alone or with Av/AuNP was compared.
Results: :
Av/AuNP exhibit a characteristic SPR peak at around 535 nm. Size distribution analysis suggests the mean particle diameter 10-12 nm and they are stable in biological solutions. Av/AuNP are preferentially localized in the retinal region. Intraocular injection of Av/AuNP delivers Avastin longer than Avastin injection without AuNP.
Conclusions: :
Av/AuNP functions as an extended release device for intraocular delivery of Avastin. This technology shows promise for treatment of patients with intraocular neovascularization without the need for frequent injections.
Keywords: age-related macular degeneration • retina • choroid: neovascularization