Nanoparticles in ocular applications and their potential toxicity

Abstract

Nanotechnology has been developed rapidly in recent decades and widely applied in ocular disease therapy. Nano-drug delivery systems overcome the bottlenecks of current ophthalmic drug delivery and are characterized with strong biocompatibility, stability, efficiency, sustainability, controllability, and few side effects. Nanoparticles have been identified as a promising and generally safe ophthalmic drug-delivery system based on the toxicity assessment in animals. Previous studies have found that common nanoparticles can be toxic to the cornea, conjunctiva, and retina under certain conditions. Because of the species differences between humans and animals, advanced in vitro cell culture techniques, such as human organoids, can mimic the human organism to a certain extent, bringing nanoparticle toxicity assessment to a new stage. This review summarizes the advanced application of nanoparticles in ocular drug delivery and the potential toxicity, as well as some of the current challenges and future opportunities in nanotoxicological evaluation.

Nanoparticle-Mediated Cell Delivery: Advancements in Corneal Endothelial Regeneration

“…Moreover, while suprachoroidal drug delivery holds promise, it encounters difficulties in effectively transducing the retina post-administration, underscoring the necessity for further research to optimize this approach [ 50 ]. Evaluating the potential toxicity of nanoparticles in ocular applications is indispensable for ensuring their safety and efficacy, accentuating the significance of comprehensive toxicity assessments to address any safety concerns [ 51 ]. By prioritizing efforts to enhance drug contact time, surmount transport barriers, optimize delivery methods such as suprachoroidal administration, and ensure nanoparticle safety, researchers can effectively tackle technical and clinical hurdles in nanoparticle-mediated ocular drug delivery, thereby paving the path for improved treatments and outcomes in ophthalmic care.…”

Nanoparticles‐induced potential toxicity on human health: Applications, toxicity mechanisms, and evaluation models

“…Furthermore, DNA damage and other stresses can trigger a highly conserved, anticancer, antiaging survival response that inhibits metabolism and growth, enhances defenses, and maintains cellular integrity 275 . A growing number of studies have shown that NP exposure causes DNA damage across cellular barriers 276–278 . For example, TiO 2 ‐NPs have only mild cytotoxic potential, but they can induce ROS and oxidative stress, leading to oxidative DNA damage 279 .…”

Breaking Barriers in Eye Treatment: Polymeric Nano-Based Drug-Delivery System for Anterior Segment Diseases and Glaucoma

“…The reduced size and lack of aggregation in dispersed nanoparticles increase their carrying efficiency, enabling them to transport a greater number of drugs to the target tissue [ 28 ]. Additionally, their mucoadhesive characteristic, enhanced permeability, and retention effect allow nanoparticles to accumulate in the target tissue, making them highly attractive for commercial ocular applications [ 29 , 30 ].…”