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Wykoff CC, Avery RL, Barakat MR, Boyer DS, Brown DM, Brucker AJ, Cunningham ET, Heier JS, Holekamp NM, Kaiser PK, Khanani AM, Kim JE, Demirci H, Regillo CD, Yiu GC, Ciulla TA. SUPRACHOROIDAL SPACE INJECTION TECHNIQUE: Expert Panel Guidance. Retina 2024; 44:939-949. [PMID: 38451179 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000004087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop professional guidelines for best practices for suprachoroidal space (SCS) injection, an innovative technique for retinal therapeutic delivery, based on current published evidence and clinical experience. METHODS A panel of expert ophthalmologists reviewed current published evidence and clinical experience during a live working group meeting to define points of consensus and key clinical considerations to inform the development of guidelines for in-office SCS injection. RESULTS Core consensus guidelines for in-office SCS injection were reached and reported by the expert panel. Current clinical evidence and physician experience supported SCS injection as a safe and effective method for delivering retinal and choroidal therapeutics. The panel established consensus on the rationale for SCS injection, including potential benefits relative to other intraocular delivery methods and current best practices in patient preparation, pre- and peri-injection management, SCS-specific injection techniques, and postinjection management and follow-up. CONCLUSION These expert panel guidelines may support and promote standardization of SCS injection technique, with the goal of optimizing patient safety and outcomes. Some aspects of the procedure may reasonably be modified based on the clinical setting and physician judgment, as well as additional study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert L Avery
- California Retina Consultants, Santa Barbara, California
| | - Mark R Barakat
- Retinal Consultants of Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
- University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - David S Boyer
- Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Alexander J Brucker
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Emmett T Cunningham
- Department of Ophthalmology, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California
- The Francis I Proctor Foundation, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, California
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- West Coast Retina Medical Group, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Nancy M Holekamp
- Pepose Vision Institute, St. Louis, Missouri
- Roche Pharmaceuticals, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Arshad M Khanani
- Sierra Eye Associates, Reno, Nevada
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada
| | - Judy E Kim
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Hakan Demirci
- Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Carl D Regillo
- Mid Atlantic Retina, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Glenn C Yiu
- University of California, Davis Health, Sacramento, California; and
| | - Thomas A Ciulla
- Chief Medical Advisor and Chair of Scientific Advisory Board, Clearside Biomedical, Alpharetta, Georgia
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Wu KY, Akbar D, Giunta M, Kalevar A, Tran SD. Hydrogels in Ophthalmology: Novel Strategies for Overcoming Therapeutic Challenges. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 17:86. [PMID: 38203940 PMCID: PMC10780040 DOI: 10.3390/ma17010086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The human eye's intricate anatomical and physiological design necessitates tailored approaches for managing ocular diseases. Recent advancements in ophthalmology underscore the potential of hydrogels as a versatile therapeutic tool, owing to their biocompatibility, adaptability, and customizability. This review offers an exploration of hydrogel applications in ophthalmology over the past five years. Emphasis is placed on their role in optimized drug delivery for the posterior segment and advancements in intraocular lens technology. Hydrogels demonstrate the capacity for targeted, controlled, and sustained drug release in the posterior segment of the eye, potentially minimizing invasive interventions and enhancing patient outcomes. Furthermore, in intraocular lens domains, hydrogels showcase potential in post-operative drug delivery, disease sensing, and improved biocompatibility. However, while their promise is immense, most hydrogel-based studies remain preclinical, necessitating rigorous clinical evaluations. Patient-specific factors, potential complications, and the current nascent stage of research should inform their clinical application. In essence, the incorporation of hydrogels into ocular therapeutics represents a seminal convergence of material science and medicine, heralding advancements in patient-centric care within ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Dania Akbar
- Department of Human Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Michel Giunta
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Ananda Kalevar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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3
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Chandra S, Tan EY, Empeslidis T, Sivaprasad S. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and their role in treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular oedema. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:3725-3733. [PMID: 37286867 PMCID: PMC10697959 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02610-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of intravitreal anti-VEGF injections has revolutionised the treatment of both neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD or wet AMD) and diabetic macular oedema (DMO). Despite their efficacy, anti-VEGF injections precipitate significant treatment burden for patients, caregivers and healthcare systems due to the high frequency of injections required to sustain treatment benefit. Therefore, there remains an unmet need for lower-burden therapies. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) are a novel class of drugs that may have considerable potential in addressing this issue. This review will summarise and discuss the results of various pilot studies and clinical trials exploring the role of TKIs in treatment of nAMD and DMO, highlighting promising candidates and possible challenges in developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Chandra
- National Institute of Health Research Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, EC1V 2PD, UK
- University College London, Institute of Ophthalmology, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Emanuel Yuquan Tan
- National Institute of Health Research Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, EC1V 2PD, UK
- Queen Mary University of London, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Bethnal Green, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | | | - Sobha Sivaprasad
- National Institute of Health Research Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, EC1V 2PD, UK.
- University College London, Institute of Ophthalmology, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
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Wu KY, Fujioka JK, Gholamian T, Zaharia M, Tran SD. Suprachoroidal Injection: A Novel Approach for Targeted Drug Delivery. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1241. [PMID: 37765048 PMCID: PMC10535603 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Treating posterior segment and retinal diseases poses challenges due to the complex structures in the eye that act as robust barriers, limiting medication delivery and bioavailability. This necessitates frequent dosing, typically via eye drops or intravitreal injections, to manage diseases, often leading to side effects with long-term use. Suprachoroidal injection is a novel approach for targeted drug delivery to the posterior segment. The suprachoroidal space is the region between the sclera and the choroid and provides a potential route for minimally invasive medication delivery. Through a more targeted delivery to the posterior segment, this method offers advantages over other routes of administration, such as higher drug concentrations, increased bioavailability, and prolonged duration of action. Additionally, this approach minimizes the risk of corticosteroid-related adverse events such as cataracts and intraocular pressure elevation via compartmentalization. This review focuses on preclinical and clinical studies published between 2019 and 2023, highlighting the potential of suprachoroidal injection in treating a variety of posterior segment diseases. However, to fully harness its potential, more research is needed to address current challenges and limitations, such as the need for technological advancements, refinement of injection techniques, and consideration of cost and accessibility factors. Future studies exploring its use in conjunction with biotech products, gene therapies, and cell-based therapies can lead to personalized treatments that can revolutionize the field of ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Jamie K. Fujioka
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Tara Gholamian
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Marian Zaharia
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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Ham Y, Mehta H, Kang-Mieler J, Mieler WF, Chang A. Novel Drug Delivery Methods and Approaches for the Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2023; 12:402-413. [PMID: 37523432 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses emerging approaches to ocular drug delivery for retinal diseases. Intravitreal injections have proven to be an effective, safe, and commonly used drug delivery method. However, the optimal management of chronic retinal diseases requires frequent intravitreal injections over extended periods of time. Although this can be achieved in a clinical trial environment, it is difficult to replicate in routine clinical practice. In addition, frequent treatment increases the risk of complications, incurs more costs, and increases the treatment burden for patients and caregivers. Given the aging global population and diabetes pandemic, there is an urgent need for drug delivery methods that support more durable retinal therapy while maintaining the efficacy and safety of currently available intravitreal therapies. Several innovative drug delivery methods are currently being investigated. These include sustained-release implants and depots using prodrugs, microparticles, and hydrogels, surgically implanted reservoirs, gene therapy via submacular injections or suprachoroidal injections, as well as topical and systemic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeji Ham
- Sydney Retina Clinic, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hemal Mehta
- Sydney Retina Clinic, Sydney, Australia
- Save Sight Registries, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Strathfield Retina Clinic, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jennifer Kang-Mieler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ
| | | | - Andrew Chang
- Sydney Retina Clinic, Sydney Eye Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Rotenstreich Y, Sher I, Lawrence M, Mangelus M, Ingerman A, Barak Y. A Novel Device for Suprachoroidal Drug Delivery to Retina: Evaluation in Nonhuman Primates. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:3. [PMID: 37289173 PMCID: PMC10257339 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.6.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Evaluation of distribution and tolerance of suprachoroidal injection of indocyanine green (ICG) in nonhuman primates (NHPs) using a novel suprachoroidal (SC) delivery technology. Methods Three live and three euthanized African green monkeys were injected with 150 or 200 µL ICG/eye into the SC space of both eyes, 2.5 mm posterior to the limbus in the inferior quadrant, utilizing a novel SC injector. Eyes were analyzed by imaging of scleral flatmounts. Live animals were observed for 24 hours for general health. Ophthalmic evaluation included slit-lamp biomicroscopy, tonometry, fundus imaging, confocal laser ophthalmoscopy, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) before and at 10 minutes and 1, 3, and 24 hours post-injection. Results SC dosing was successfully performed in all eyes. Infrared fundus imaging demonstrated ICG distribution throughout the posterior segment, reaching the macula within 24 hours post-injection. No inflammation, intravitreal penetration, SC blebs, retinal detachment, or hemorrhages were detected. No significant changes were observed in retinal thickness by SD-OCT (P = 0.267, ANOVA). A mild, statistically insignificant elevation in intraocular pressure was observed within 10 minutes post-injection (mean ± standard error: 7.28 ± 5.09 mmHg; P = 0.061) and was spontaneously resolved within the first hour after dosing. Conclusions Suprachoroidal injection of 150 to 200 µL ICG dye was successfully performed and well tolerated in NHP eyes, with rapid distribution into the macular region and throughout the posterior pole. Translational Relevance This novel SC drug delivery system may potentially provide safe and effective delivery of therapeutics to the posterior pole region in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ygal Rotenstreich
- The Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ifat Sher
- The Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- TELEM Rubin Excellence in Biomedical Research Program, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | | | | | | | - Yoreh Barak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
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7
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Yeh S, Henry CR, Kapik B, Ciulla TA. Triamcinolone Acetonide Suprachoroidal Injectable Suspension for Uveitic Macular Edema: Integrated Analysis of Two Phase 3 Studies. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:577-591. [PMID: 36399237 PMCID: PMC9834475 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-022-00603-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Macular edema, a common complication of uveitis, may result in vision loss. The aim of this analysis was to report integrated phase 3 trial data for triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension for suprachoroidal use (SCS-TA) in the treatment of macular edema secondary to noninfectious uveitis using strict inclusion criteria. METHODS This analysis included patients with central subfield thickness (CST) ≥ 300 µm and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of ≥ 5 and ≤ 70 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters at both screening and baseline who received ≥ 1 study treatment in either PEACHTREE (randomized, double-masked SCS-TA or sham control) or AZALEA (open-label SCS-TA). Patients received SCS-TA 4.0 mg (0.1 ml of 40 mg/ml) or control at baseline and week 12. RESULTS In the SCS-TA group (n = 95), 47.4% of patients gained ≥ 15 ETDRS letters from baseline to week 24 versus 16.7% of patients in the control group (n = 60; P < 0.001). Mean change in BCVA in the SCS-TA group was 9.6 letters at week 4 and 13.9 letters at week 24. CST also improved rapidly in the SCS-TA group (mean change: - 158.4 µm at week 4), with sustained reduction throughout the study (mean change: - 163.9 µm at week 24 versus - 19.3 µm in the control group; P < 0.001). No treatment-related serious adverse events (AEs) were reported. Incidence of AEs pertaining to elevated intraocular pressure was 12.6% and 15.0% in the SCS-TA and control groups, respectively; incidence of cataract formation/worsening AEs was 7.4% and 6.7%, respectively. CONCLUSION In this integrated analysis utilizing strict inclusion criteria, SCS-TA was found effective in the treatment of patients with macular edema associated with noninfectious uveitis and was generally well tolerated. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02595398, NCT03097315.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Yeh
- grid.266813.80000 0001 0666 4105Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - Christopher R. Henry
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Houston, TX USA ,grid.63368.380000 0004 0445 0041Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX USA ,grid.267308.80000 0000 9206 2401Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX USA
| | - Barry Kapik
- grid.470250.40000 0004 7480 2989Clearside Biomedical, Inc., 900 North Point Parkway, Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30005 USA
| | - Thomas A. Ciulla
- grid.470250.40000 0004 7480 2989Clearside Biomedical, Inc., 900 North Point Parkway, Suite 200, Alpharetta, GA 30005 USA
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8
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Nawar AE. Effectiveness of Suprachoroidal Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide in Resistant Diabetic Macular Edema Using a Modified Microneedle. Clin Ophthalmol 2022; 16:3821-3831. [PMID: 36438589 PMCID: PMC9698330 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s391319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The present study evaluated the effectiveness of suprachoroidal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in resistant diabetic macular edema (DME) using a modified microneedle. Patients and Methods This is a prospective nonrandomized interventional study that was conducted on 55 eyes of 39 patients with centrally involving DME resistant to previous antivascular endotheli qal growth factor (VEGF) agents. All patients received suprachoroidal injection of triamcinolone acetonide 4 mg/0.1 mL by a modified specialized microneedle. Results The mean central macular thickness (CMT) decreased sign ificantly from 478.7±170.2 µm before injection to 230.2±47.4 µm after 12 months with p-value <0.001. Significant improvement of the mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from 1.193±0.2 by logMAR at the baseline to 0.76±0.3 by logMAR was achieved after 12 months with p-value <0.001. The IOP increased significantly at one month after injection and returned to the baseline value at the third month. Eyes with more baseline CMT and worse baseline BCVA achieved worse final BCVA 12 months after injection. Eyes with inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) disruption and neurosensory detachment (NSD) showed worse final visual outcomes. IS/OS segment disruption, NSD and baseline BCVA were the main independent predictors of the final BCVA. Conclusion Suprachoroidal injection of TA using this new modified microneedle resulted in marked anatomical and functional results in cases of DME resistant to previous anti-VEGF drugs with no serious ocular or systemic side effects. The study was prospectively registered with clinical trial.gov ID (NCT04690608) in 27–12-2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin E Nawar
- Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
- Correspondence: Amin E Nawar, Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, 31516, Egypt, Tel +20 1140095692, Email
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9
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Suprachoroidal delivery enables targeting, localization and durability of small molecule suspensions. J Control Release 2022; 349:1045-1051. [PMID: 35868358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.05.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Drug delivery to the suprachoroidal space (SCS®) has become a clinical reality after the 2021 FDA approval of CLS-TA, a triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension for suprachoroidal use (XIPERE®), administered via a microneedle-based device, the SCS Microinjector®. Suprachoroidal (SC) delivery facilitates targeting, compartmentalization, and durability of small molecule suspensions, thereby potentially addressing some of the efficacy, safety, and treatment burden limitations of current retinal therapies. Herein, the design features of the SCS Microinjector are reviewed, along with the biomechanics of SC drug delivery. Also presented are preclinical evaluations of SC small molecule suspensions from 4 different therapeutic classes (plasma kallikrein inhibitor, receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, corticosteroid, complement factor D inhibitor), highlighting their potential for durability, targeted compartmentalization, and acceptable safety profiles following microinjector-based SC delivery. The clinical evaluations of the safety, tolerability and efficacy of SC delivered triamcinolone further supports potential of SC small molecule suspensions as a clinically viable strategy for the treatment of chorioretinal diseases. Also highlighted are current limitations, key pharmacological considerations, and future opportunities to optimize the SC microinjector platform for safe, effective, and potentially long-acting drug delivery for the treatment of chorioretinal disorders.
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Thomas J, Kim L, Albini T, Yeh S. Triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension for suprachoroidal use in the treatment of macular edema associated with uveitis. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022; 17:165-173. [PMID: 36060305 PMCID: PMC9438525 DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2022.2114456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Macular edema due to noninfectious uveitis is a sight-threatening complication that is routinely treated with corticosteroids. Triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension for suprachoroidal use (Xipere™) is an alternative treatment option for patients with non-infectious uveitis associated macular edema. Areas covered This review describes the recently FDA approved triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension that can be injected into the suprachoroidal space. This physiological space is between the sclera and choroid. This allows for therapeutic targeting of the retina and choroid. This review highlights published clinical trials for this novel drug preparation. Expert opinion Suprachoroidal administration of triamcinolone acetonide has shown improvement in vision and inflammation in studies with non-infectious uveitis associated macular edema. This unique delivery method suggests the potential to decrease side effects of anterior segment exposure such as glaucoma and cataract, but head-to-head trials are needed for further study of safety and efficacy. Additionally, there are promising prospective studies underway for utilization of the suprachoroidal space for other diseases including macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and ocular tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucas Kim
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Thomas Albini
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | - Steven Yeh
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
- Emory Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Atlanta, GA
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Ciulla T, Yeh S, Hariprasad SM. Suprachoroidal Drug Delivery for Clinicians: Anatomic Principles, Clinical Data in Uveitis, and Future Directions. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2022; 53:361-366. [PMID: 35858236 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20220617-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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12
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Hanif J, Iqbal K, Perveen F, Arif A, Iqbal RN, Jameel F, Hanif K, Seemab A, Khan AY, Ahmed M. Safety and Efficacy of Suprachoroidal Injection of Triamcinolone in Treating Macular Edema Secondary to Noninfectious Uveitis. Cureus 2021; 13:e20038. [PMID: 34993024 PMCID: PMC8720032 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.20038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the leading causes of blindness throughout the world is uveitis, which predominantly results in the feared complication of macular edema. We report the safety and efficacy of suprachoroidal injection of triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of macular edema secondary to noninfectious uveitis. Methodology This prospective, nonrandomized interventional study was conducted at Layton Rahmatullah Benevolent Trust (LRBT) Eye Hospital, Lahore, from August 2019 till July 2020. All individuals older than 18 years, nonpregnant females with a central macular thickness of >320 µm were included. Those patients with uncontrolled diabetes, immunodeficiency, or any other disease mandating systemic corticosteroid use were excluded. All patients had a detailed ocular exam one week before the treatment, and 0.1 ml of triamcinolone acetonide 40 mg/ml was injected using a 30-G hollow needle into the suprachoroidal space. After the injection, an eye patch was applied and the patient was observed for three hours. All data were documented in a preformed proforma. Results A total of 30 patients were included in the study with a mean age of 38.1 ± 9.48 years. Statistically significant differences were found between central macular thickness at presentation and at one and three months of the procedure, i.e., 569.60 ± 170.396, 266.77 ± 73.127, and 208.27 ± 37.292 µm, respectively. A similar difference was observed when comparing visual acuity at baseline to visual acuity at one and three months of the procedure (p < 0.001). Conclusion The current study indicates that a single dose of suprachoroidal injection of triamcinolone acetonide for the treatment of macular edema secondary to uveitis is safe and efficacious. No rise in intraocular pressure (IOP) was observed during the study period. Significant improvements in central macular thickness and visual acuity as well as tolerability and safety of the treatment were seen in our study. Further larger-scale studies are needed to ascertain the long-term benefits of the suprachoroidal triamcinolone acetonide.
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13
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Patil MA, Kompella UB. Noninvasive monitoring of suprachoroidal, subretinal, and intravitreal implants using confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Int J Pharm 2021; 606:120887. [PMID: 34271155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To address the need for noninvasive monitoring of injectable preformed drug delivery implants in the eye, we developed noninvasive methods to monitor such implants in different locations within the eye. Cylindrical polymeric poly(lactide-co-glycolide) or metal implants were injected into isolated bovine eyes at suprachoroidal, subretinal, and intravitreal locations and imaged noninvasively using the cSLO and OCT modes of a Heidelberg Spectralis HRA + OCT instrument after adjusting for the corneal curvature. Length and diameter of implants were obtained using cSLO images for all three locations, and the volume was calculated. Additionally, implant volume for suprachoroidal and subretinal location was estimated by integrating the cross-sectional bleb area over the implant length in multiple OCT images or using the maximum thickness of the implant based on thickness map along with length in cSLO image. Simultaneous cSLO and OCT imaging identified implants in different regions of the eye. Image-based measurements of implant dimensions mostly correlated well with the values prior to injection using blade micrometer. The accuracy (82-112%) and precision (1-19%) for noninvasive measurement of length was better than the diameter (accuracy 69-130%; precision 3-38%) using cSLO image for both types of implants. The accuracy for the measurement of volume of both types of implants from all three intraocular locations was better with cSLO imaging (42-152%) compared to those obtained using OCT cross-sectional bleb area integration (117-556%) or cSLO and thickness map (32-279%) methods. Suprachoroidal, subretinal, and intravitreal implants can be monitored for length, diameter, and volume using cSLO and OCT imaging. Such measurements may be useful in noninvasively monitoring implant degradation and drug release in the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhoosudan A Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Uday B Kompella
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States; Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States; Colorado Center for Nanomedicine and Nanosafety, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.
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Naftali Ben Haim L, Moisseiev E. Drug Delivery via the Suprachoroidal Space for the Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13070967. [PMID: 34206925 PMCID: PMC8309112 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13070967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The suprachoroidal space (SCS), a potential space between the sclera and choroid, is becoming an applicable method to deliver therapeutics to the back of the eye. In recent years, a vast amount of research in the field has been carried out, with new discoveries in different areas of interest, such as imaging, drug delivery methods, pharmacokinetics, pharmacotherapies in preclinical and clinical trials and advanced therapies. The SCS can be visualized via advanced techniques of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in eyes with different pathologies, and even in healthy eyes. Drugs can be delivered easily and safely via hollow microneedles fitted to the length of the approximate thickness of the sclera. SCS injections were found to reach greater baseline concentrations in the target layers compared to intravitreal (IVT) injection, while agent clearance was faster with highly aqueous soluble molecules. Clinical trials with SCS injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) were executed with promising findings for patients with noninfectious uveitis (NIU), NIU implicated with macular edema and diabetic macular edema (DME). Gene therapy is evolving rapidly with viral and non-viral vectors that were found to be safe and efficient in preclinical trials. Here, we review these novel different aspects and new developments in clinical treatment of the posterior segment of the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liron Naftali Ben Haim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, 59 Tshernichovsky St., Kfar Saba 4428164, Israel;
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-97471527; Fax: +972-97472427
| | - Elad Moisseiev
- Department of Ophthalmology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, 59 Tshernichovsky St., Kfar Saba 4428164, Israel;
- The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
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15
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Chung SH, Mollhoff IN, Mishra A, Sin TN, Ngo T, Ciulla T, Sieving P, Thomasy SM, Yiu G. Host Immune Responses after Suprachoroidal Delivery of AAV8 in Nonhuman Primate Eyes. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 32:682-693. [PMID: 33446041 PMCID: PMC8312020 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2020.281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The suprachoroid is a potential space located between the sclera and choroid of the eye, which provides a novel route for ocular drug or viral vector delivery. Suprachoroidal injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV)8 using transscleral microneedles enables widespread transgene expression in eyes of nonhuman primates, but may cause intraocular inflammation. We characterized the host humoral and cellular immune responses after suprachoroidal delivery of AAV8 expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) in rhesus macaques, and found that it can induce mild chorioretinitis that resolves after systemic corticosteroid administration, with recovery of photoreceptor morphology, but persistent immune cell infiltration after 3 months, corresponding to a loss of GFP expression from retinal pigment epithelial cells, but persistent expression in scleral fibroblasts. Suprachoroidal AAV8 triggered B cell and T cell responses against GFP, but only mild antibody responses to the viral capsid compared to intravitreal injections of the same vector and dose. Systemic biodistribution studies showed lower AAV8 levels in liver and spleen after suprachoroidal injection compared with intravitreal delivery. Our findings suggest that suprachoroidal AAV8 primarily triggers host immune responses to GFP, likely due to sustained transgene expression in scleral fibroblasts outside the blood-retinal barrier, but elicits less humoral immune reactivity to the viral capsid than intravitreal delivery due to lower egress into systemic circulation. As GFP is not native to primates and not a clinically relevant transgene, suprachoroidal AAV delivery of human transgenes may have significant translational potential for retinal gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sook Hyun Chung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Iris Natalie Mollhoff
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Alaknanda Mishra
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Tzu-Ni Sin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Taylor Ngo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Thomas Ciulla
- Department of Clearside Biomedical, Inc., Alpharetta, Georgia, USA
| | - Paul Sieving
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA.,Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Glenn Yiu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
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16
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Hancock SE, Wan CR, Fisher NE, Andino RV, Ciulla TA. Biomechanics of suprachoroidal drug delivery: From benchtop to clinical investigation in ocular therapies. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2021; 18:777-788. [PMID: 33393391 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2021.1867532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As research in suprachoroidal drug delivery advances, and therapeutic candidates, ranging from small molecule suspensions to gene therapy, progress through clinical trials, an understanding of suprachoroidal space (SCS) biomechanics assumes increasing importance.Areas covered:Numerous anatomic features play an important role in therapeutic access to the SCS. Methods of access include a catheter, a standard hypodermic needle, and a microinjector with microneedle. Physical and fluidic properties of injectates into the SCS, such as volume, viscosity, particle size, osmotic pressure, and ionic charge of formulation can impact the spread and extent of opening of the SCS. Pharmacokinetic data of several small molecule suspensions yielded favorable ocular distribution and pharmacokinetic profiles. Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials have been completed with a suprachoroidally injected corticosteroid; results and information on procedural details with the microinjector are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Suprachoroidal drug delivery has been demonstrated to be a reliable and consistent drug delivery method for targeted treatment of retinal and choroidal disorders to potentially maximize efficacy, while compartmentalizing therapies away from the unaffected tissues to potentially enhance safety. These delivery attributes, along with fluid transport properties and formula customization for pharmacological agents, may allow for more tailored treatment of diseases affecting chorio-retinal tissues.
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Wan CR, Kapik B, Wykoff CC, Henry CR, Barakat MR, Shah M, Andino RV, Ciulla TA. Clinical Characterization of Suprachoroidal Injection Procedure Utilizing a Microinjector across Three Retinal Disorders. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:27. [PMID: 33150052 PMCID: PMC7585395 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.11.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study assessed physician-investigator experience with suprachoroidal (SC) injections, an investigational therapeutic administration technique using a 900 or 1100 µm microneedle to inject drugs into the SC space. Methods Datasets from six clinical trials across three diseases (noninfectious uveitis; diabetic macula edema, and retinal vein occlusion) were assessed. In addition to a user survey, retrospective correlations were performed between procedural variables (needle length), and demographics, and ocular characteristics. Results In the user survey, 84% (31/37) of physician-investigators did not perceive the SC injections to be meaningfully more challenging than other ocular injections. For the correlation analysis, the 900 µm needle was used for 71% (412/581) of baseline injections, and switching to the longer needle occured in the remaining 29% of baseline injections. No statistical correlations were found between needle lengths and age, race, disorder, refraction, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, retinal central subfield thickness, or lens status. Patient gender and needle length were statistically associated, with 76% (210/275) versus 66% (202/306) of injections administered with 900 µm needles for female and male gender, respectively. Injection quadrant correlated to needle length with 78% (214/275) of superotemporal quadrant injections administered with 900 µm needles, compared with 65% (73/113) of inferotemporal quadrant injections. Conclusions Both the user survey and the correlation analysis demonstrated that SC injection is well accepted by physician-investigators, and the two needle lengths accommodate a wide range of anatomic and demographic variables. Translational Relevance These results, along with the presented ex-vivo endoscopic imaging, suggest that SC injection could be readily adopted in clinical practice for targeted compartmentalized delivery of ocular therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Charles C Wykoff
- Retina Consultants of Houston, Retina Consultants of America; Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher R Henry
- Retina Consultants of Houston, Retina Consultants of America; Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Milan Shah
- Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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18
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Tayyab H, Ahmed CN, Sadiq MAA. Efficacy and safety of Suprachoroidal Triamcinolone Acetonide in cases of resistant diabetic Macular Edema. Pak J Med Sci 2020; 36:42-47. [PMID: 32063929 PMCID: PMC6994882 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.36.2.1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Suprachoroidal Triamcinolone Acetonide (SCTA) injection in patients with treatment resistant Diabetic Macular Edema (DME). Methods This was a prospective non randomized interventional study conducted in the vitreoretinal department of Al Ehsan Welfare Eye Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan from March 2018 to September 2018. A total of 24 eyes of 24 patients were included. Baseline Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP) and Central Subfield Thickness (CST) was recorded. After SCTA, patient was followed up at one and three months and same clinical parameters were recorded again and results analyzed. Results Out of 24 patients, 11(45.83%) were males and 13(54.16%) were females. Mean pre injection CST was 636.5 ± 200.11 um. Mean pre injection BCVA was 0.8 ± 0.24 on ETDRS chart. Mean post injection CST at one and three months was 304.54 ± 67.43 and 302.66 ± 66.93 um. Mean post injection BCVA at one and three months was 0.47 ± 0.3 and 0.45 ± 0.27 on ETDRS chart. The results were statistically significant for pre and post injection CST at both one and three months (p-value < 0.00001). Pre and post injection BCVA was also statistically significant (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion Preliminary evidence suggests that SCTA is well tolerated and may help in improving functional and structural outcomes of treatment resistant DME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haroon Tayyab
- Dr. Haroon Tayyab, FCPS. Al-Ehsan Welfare Eye Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. Department of Ophthalmology, King Edward Medical University / Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Chaudhry Nasir Ahmed
- Dr. Chaudhry Nasir Ahmed, FCPS. Department of Ophthalmology, King Edward Medical University / Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ali Ayaz Sadiq
- Dr. Muhammad Ali Ayaz Sadiq, FCPS. Department of Ophthalmology, King Edward Medical University / Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
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Jung JH, Park S, Chae JJ, Prausnitz MR. Collagenase injection into the suprachoroidal space of the eye to expand drug delivery coverage and increase posterior drug targeting. Exp Eye Res 2019; 189:107824. [PMID: 31585119 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Injection into the suprachoroidal space (SCS) allows drug delivery targeted to sclera, choroid, and retina. Here, we studied SCS injection formulated with collagenase to expand drug delivery coverage and increase posterior drug targeting within SCS by breaking down collagen fibrils that link sclera and choroid in the SCS. When 1 μm latex microparticles were injected with a collagenase formulation using microneedles into the SCS of rabbit eyes ex vivo and incubated at 37 °C for 4 h, microparticle delivery coverage increased from 20% to 45% and enhanced posterior drug targeting. Collagenase concentration was optimized to 0.5 mg/mL to maximize expanded posterior delivery and minimize tissue damage. Effects of collagenase injection within SCS increased and then plateaued 4 h after injection. Simultaneous injection of collagenase and microparticles had a greater effect on expanded delivery in the SCS compared to sequential injection. Collagenase injection into the SCS of rabbit eyes in vivo was also effective to expand delivery and was generally well-tolerated, showing transiently lowered IOP, but no apparent lasting adverse effects on ocular tissues such as sclera, choroid, and retina, as determined by analyzing histology, sclera tensile strength, and fundus imaging. We conclude that addition of collagenase during SCS injection can expand drug delivery coverage and increase posterior drug targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hwan Jung
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghyun Park
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - J Jeremy Chae
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Mark R Prausnitz
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
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