Minimally invasive and sustained delivery of Bevacizumab to the posterior segment of the eye by hydrogel microneedle patch for diabetic retinopathy treatment
Ali Mehrfar1 *, Mohamad Hossein Ghanian2 , Leila Satarian3
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Cell Engineering, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a significant global health concern characterized by the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to severe visual impairments and even blindness. Currently, intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs such as Bevacizumab (BZ) is a standard treatment aimed at inhibiting the formation of the new blood vessels. However, this method is invasive and may not be suitable for all patients due to its associated risks and discomfort. In recent years, microneedle (MN) patches have emerged as a promising alternative for minimally invasive intraocular drug delivery. These patches offer several advantages, including painless application, effective drug penetration, and flexibility to administer varying doses without the invasiveness of traditional injection methods. This innovative approach could revolutionize treatment for DR by providing a more patient-friendly option while improving therapeutic efficacy.
Methods: MN molds were created by micromolding using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as the substrate. Then, hyaluronic acid (HA) solution was mixed with BZ and casted into the PDMS molds, which were then centrifuged and allowed for gelation and drying at room temperature for 48 hours. Once dried, the HA hydrogel MN patches were carefully removed from the molds and characterized using digital microscopy. Additionally, mechanical tests were conducted using texture analyzer to evaluate the penetration capabilities of the microneedles array patches within sclera tissue.
Results: MN patches were intact after removing from mold. Mechanical tests were carried out using texture analyzer and showed that the MN patch could tolerate about 58 N force, which is properly enough regarding that the required force for penetration into sclera is 1.005 N.
Conclusion: This innovative MN technology represents a safer and more patient-friendly option for managing ocular conditions.
