Drug-Loaded Polymeric Particulated Systems for Ophthalmic Drugs Release

Molecules. 2022 Jul 14;27(14):4512. doi: 10.3390/molecules27144512.

Abstract

Drug delivery to the anterior or posterior segments of the eye is a major challenge due to the protection barriers and removal mechanisms associated with the unique anatomical and physiological nature of the ocular system. The paper presents the preparation and characterization of drug-loaded polymeric particulated systems based on pre-emulsion coated with biodegradable polymers. Low molecular weight biopolymers (chitosan, sodium hyaluronate and heparin sodium) were selected due to their ability to attach polymer chains to the surface of the growing system. The particulated systems with dimensions of 190-270 nm and a zeta potential varying from -37 mV to +24 mV depending on the biopolymer charges have been obtained. Current studies show that particles release drugs (dexamethasone/pilocarpine/bevacizumab) in a safe and effective manner, maintaining therapeutic concentration for a longer period of time. An extensive modeling study was performed in order to evaluate the drug release profile from the prepared systems. In a multifractal paradigm of motion, nonlinear behaviors of a drug delivery system are analyzed in the fractal theory of motion, in order to correlate the drug structure with polymer. Then, the functionality of a SL(2R) type "hidden symmetry" implies, through a Riccati type gauge, different "synchronization modes" (period doubling, damped oscillations, quasi-periodicity and intermittency) during the drug release process. Among these, a special mode of Kink type, better reflects the empirical data. The fractal study indicated more complex interactions between the angiogenesis inhibitor Bevacizumab and polymeric structure.

Keywords: fractal mathematical model; ophthalmic drugs; particle-based drug delivery; pre-emulsions; routes of administration.

MeSH terms

  • Bevacizumab
  • Chitosan* / chemistry
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Drug Liberation
  • Emulsions
  • Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Particle Size
  • Polymers / chemistry

Substances

  • Drug Carriers
  • Emulsions
  • Polymers
  • Bevacizumab
  • Chitosan

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.