Investigation of the potential of polymer therapeutics in corneal re-epithelialisation

Br J Ophthalmol. 2010 Dec;94(12):1566-70. doi: 10.1136/bjo.2009.177295. Epub 2010 Sep 9.

Abstract

In this study, the first use of a bioresponsive polymer therapeutic agent in the promotion of corneal re-epithelialisation after injury in an ex vivo whole-eye organ culture model was described. A polymer-protein conjugate consisting of dextrin and recombinant human epidermal growth factor was synthesised and applied as a single dose to a 2 mm ex vivo corneal ulcer, in culture. Enhanced wound healing was observed in response to dextrin-recombinant human epidermal growth factor, when exposed to α-amylase, compared with controls. This highlights the potential for polymer therapeutics to provide a platform for bioresponsive drug/protein delivery in the field of ophthalmology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Cornea / physiology*
  • Corneal Injuries
  • Dextrins / biosynthesis*
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Male
  • Organ Culture Techniques / methods*
  • Organ Culture Techniques / trends
  • Polymers / chemical synthesis*
  • Polymers / metabolism
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Regeneration / physiology*
  • Wound Healing / drug effects
  • Wound Healing / physiology*

Substances

  • Dextrins
  • Polymers
  • ErbB Receptors