Susbin Raj Wagle

1. For oral medications to have a therapeutic effect, drug dissolution must occur, followed by drug absorption [1,2]. Drug dissolution is commonly defined as the process where drug content is relea...

Retinal degenerative diseases are a major cause of vision loss worldwide, with oxidative stress being a key pathological driver. This study aimed to develop and evaluate probucol–lithocholic acid (LCA) nanoparticles for targeted retinal protection. Nanoparticles were formulated via spray drying of a mixture containing probucol, low-viscosity sodium alginate, polyethylene glycol, and LCA, followed by detailed physicochemical characterization. In vitro studies using human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells exposed to oxidative (H₂O₂) and hyperglycaemic stress demonstrated that the probucol–LCA nanoparticles significantly improved cell viability, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS), restored glutathione (GSH) levels, and enhanced mitochondrial bioenergetics compared with non-functionalized formulations. In vivo, a single intravitreal injection of the nanoparticles in wild-type and retinal degeneration 1 (rd1) mice confirmed their biocompatibility and safety, showing no adverse effects on retinal structure or function. These findings establish the probucol–LCA nanoparticle system as a safe and effective antioxidant platform for intravitreal delivery. Its demonstrated in vitro efficacy and favourable safety profile highlight its potential for translation into therapeutic interventions for oxidative stress related retinal diseases. Graphical abstract

Vision loss and blindness are significant issues in both developed and developing countries. There are a wide variety of aetiologies that can cause vision loss, which are outlined in this review. Although treatment has significantly improved over time for some conditions, nearly half of all people with vision impairment are left untreated. Gene delivery is an emerging field that may assist with the treatment of some of these difficult to manage forms of vision loss. Here we review how a component of nanotechnology-based, non-viral gene delivery systems are being applied to help resolve vision impairment. This review focuses on the use of lipid and polymer nanoparticles, and quantum dots as gene delivery vectors to the eye. Finally, we also highlight some emerging technologies that may be useful in this discipline.

Diabetic retinopathy, a significant trigger for blindness among working age individuals with diabetes, poses a substantial global health challenge. Understanding its underlying mechanisms is pivotal for developing effective treatments. Current treatment options, such as anti-VEGF agents, corticosteroids, laser photocoagulation, and vitreous surgery, have their limitations, prompting the exploration of innovative approaches like nanocapsules based drug-delivery systems. Nanoparticles provide promising solutions to improve drug delivery in ocular medicine, overcoming the complexities of ocular anatomy and existing treatment constraints. This review explored advanced therapeutic strategies for diabetic retinopathy, focusing on current medications with their limitations, drug delivery methods, device innovations, and overcoming associated barriers. Through comprehensive review, it aimed to contribute to the discovery of more efficient management strategies for diabetic retinopathy in the future. In the next five to ten years, we expect a revolutionary shift in how diabetic retinopathy is treated. As we deepen our understanding of oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction, antioxidants are poised to take center stage in prevention and treatment strategies. Our vision is to create a more integrated approach to diabetic retinopathy management that not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces the risks associated to traditional therapies.

Hearing loss places a significant burden on our aging population. However, there has only been limited progress in developing therapeutic techniques to effectively mediate this condition. This review will outline several of the most commonly utilized practices for the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss before exploring more novel techniques currently being investigated via both in vitro and in vivo research. This review will place particular emphasis on novel gene-delivery technologies. Primarily, it will focus on techniques used to deliver genes that have been shown to encourage the proliferation and differentiation of sensory cells within the inner ear and how these technologies may be translated into providing clinically useful results for patients.