Novel electrospun implants of Sunitinib can depress ex-vivo ocular neovascularization

Abstract

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is one of the hallmark symptoms of Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (wAMD) and DiabeticRetinopathy(DR) which involves formation of neoangiogenic i.e. formation of new abnormal blood vessels emerging from the choroidal blood vessels and protruding through the retinal layer. The current management of wAMD involves intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF such as ranibizumab and aflibercept. We hypothesized the delivery of small molecule anti-angiogenesis agents such as the Sunitinib by episcleral route could be an effective and less challenging solution for the management of choroidal neovascularization. In this research, we have fabricated the sunitinib-loaded implants that are able of sustained the release of drug and possess improved ocular pharmacokinetics with a non-invasive administration. The novel episcleral implants were fabricated by electrospinning and were tested for different physiochemical and well as in-vitro pharmacokinetic properties. Further, these implants were tested for in-vitro biocompatibility and ex-vivo efficacy for the estimation of pharmacodynamic properties.