Eye Drug Delivery

About

INVENTION This new way of drug delivery relies on the use of low-frequency and low-power ultrasound over a short duration. Cavitation effect produced by ultrasound at certain specified conditions creates channels in the sclera (which is the white outerpart of the eye) in a confined zone such that the permeability of a localized area in the sclera can be temporarily increased for the transport of macromolecules. Preliminary tests indicated that this technology can enhance the intrascleral delivery of therapeutic macromolecules, which include proteins, polymers, DNA, RNA, nano-carriers and macro-carriers of drugs. By positioning the high molecular weight agents at the sclera of the posterior segment, delivery to the neighboring choroidal and retinal tissues at the posterior segment of the eye is made feasible. The apparatus would include an ultrasound applicator, a well for containing an ultrasound-transmitting medium and the drug solution/gel. The ultrasound applicator and the well are simply placed on the exposing sclera of the eye. MARKET OPPORTUNITY This method is applicable for delivering eye drug to treat ocular diseases. It is much better than the periocular injection and intravitreal injection since it is not invasive. Further, drug will unlikely circulate around the body by using this method. Potential collaborator could be pharmaceutical companies that focus on the development of transmucosal drug delivery. Key Benefits Non-invasive Patient-friendly Able to deliver drug into eye more efficiently Easy to operate