Nanotechnology: A State of the Art for the Management of Ocular Disorders—A Roadmap
摘要
Despite extensive efforts, safe and effective ocular drug delivery is a persistent hurdle for pharmaceutical scientists. Traditional delivery systems, such as solutions, suspensions, and ointments employed for topical application in the management of ocular diseases, suffer from low bioavailability. Numerous anatomical and pathophysiological obstructions of the eye are the primary causes. However, nanotechnology has emerged as a viable method to overcome the drawbacks of conventional ocular drug delivery systems. It offers opportunities to improve the therapeutic effectiveness and reduce the adverse effects of invasive surgical procedures or systemic exposure. This review highlights the latest progress in nanoparticulate-based technologies for the identification and management of ocular diseases. Recent research has highlighted the potential of nanoformulations to improve the clinical effectiveness and bioavailability of ophthalmic medicines, surpassing those of conventional ophthalmic drug delivery methods. These studies have led to several patented inventions, demonstrating substantial improvement in the treatment of various chronic ocular diseases. Although nanotechnology holds significant potential for ophthalmic delivery, it is essential to acknowledge that the translation of patent inventions into marketable drug candidates has been limited. Many of the technologies discussed are still in the developmental and testing stages to ensure their commercial viability. Additionally, ongoing studies are assessing ocular tolerance and nanotoxicity to determine the safety and efficacy of prolonged use of nanoformulations. Although further research is needed, the progress outlined in this review provides a promising foundation for the development and application of innovative ocular nanomedicines for ocular drug delivery systems.
Graphical Abstract