Novel electrospun implants of Sunitinib can depress ex-vivo ocular neovascularization

• Published in: British Journal of Pharmacy Vol. 7; no. 2; pp. S1 - S2
• Main Authors: Deepakkumar Mishra, Hakon Hrafn Sigurosson, Ana Paula Serro, Giedrius Kalesnykas, Ryan Donelly, Thakur Raghu Raj Singh
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Huddersfield, United Kingdom University of Huddersfield Press 01.11.2022
• Subjects: Age factors; amd; Drug delivery systems; episcleral implant; Eye; Movement disorders; ocular drug delivery; Polymers in medicine; posterior segment; Retinal degeneration
• ISSN: 2058-8356; 2058-8356
• DOI: 10.5920/bjpharm.1174

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is one of the hallmark symptoms of Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (wAMD) and Diabetic Retinopathy(DR) which involves formation of neoangiogenic i.e. formation of new abnormal blood vessels emerging from the choroidal blood vessels and protruding through retinal layer. The current management of wAMD involves intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF such as ranibizumab and aflibercept. We hypothesized the delivery of small molecule anti-angiogenesis agent such as Sunitinib by episcleral route could be an effective and less challenging solution for the management of the choroidal neovascularization. In this research, we have fabricated the sunitinib-loaded implants that are able of sustained release of drug and possess improved ocular pharmacokinetics with a non-invasive administration. The novel episcleral implants were fabricated by electrospinning and were test for different physiochemical and well as 'in-vitro' pharmacokinetic properties. Further, these implants were tested for in-vitro biocompatibility and ex-vivo efficacy for estimation of pharmacodynamics properties.