Implantable anti-angiogenic scaffolds for treatment of neovascular ocular pathologies

Drug Deliv Transl Res. 2020 Oct;10(5):1191-1202. doi: 10.1007/s13346-020-00753-0.

Abstract

The retinal physiology can accrue oxidative damage and inflammatory insults due to age and metabolic irregularities. Two notable diseases that involve retinal and choroidal neovascularization are proliferative diabetic retinopathy and wet age-related macular degeneration. Currently, these diseases are mainly treated with anti-VEGF drugs (VEGF = vascular endothelial growth factor), generally on a monthly dosage scheme. We discuss recent developments for the treatment of these diseases, including bioactive tissue-engineered materials, which may reduce frequency of dosage and propose a path forward for improving patient outcomes. Graphical abstract Development of materials for long-term intravitreal delivery for management of posterior segment diseases.

Keywords: Age-related macular degeneration; Anti-angiogenic materials; Diabetic retinopathy; Hydrogel; Pathological neovascularization; Peptide nanofibers; Self-assembly.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Choroidal Neovascularization* / drug therapy
  • Diabetic Retinopathy* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Retinal Neovascularization* / drug therapy
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Wet Macular Degeneration*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A