Research Projects

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, causing progressive damage to the optic nerve and visual field restriction. Raised intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only modifiable risk factor for this condition. Primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) results in iris bulging forward, blocking the drainage angle, leading to a rapid buildup of IOP. Open angle glaucoma (OAG) has partial blockage of trabecular meshwork, restricting aqueous humor flow and a chronic rise in IOP. Eye drops can help lower IOP but lead to low bioavailability due to tear clearance and varying IOP control. Sustained release strategies are being explored to achieve zero-order drug release with constant drug release rate. This project aims to develop two strategies: using intracameral biodegradable implants of drugs in degradable polymer matrices, which aim to attain a zero-order drug release. A smart intraocular platform comprising degradable polymer matrices could have higher potency for OAG drugs with poor trans-corneal penetration. Another strategy involves using polymeric microspheres containing OAG drugs encapsulated within the haptic region of intraocular lenses (IOLs), preferred for patients with co-incidence of cataract and glaucoma. This method avoids complications from mechanical contact with corneal endothelial cells, leading to restricted use and specific contraindications. Extensive pharmacokinetic modelling and in vitro drug release experiments will be performed to establish the release order and predict long-time drug release behavior and its impact on IOP. The project also plans biocompatibility and cell adhesion behavior of the implants. A successful completion is expected to result in biodegradable implants and drug-loaded IOLs for OAG treatment, along with a deeper understanding of IOP control behavior.