Drug Delivery to the Anterior Segment of Eye
摘要
The human eye’s complex anatomy and protective barriers pose significant challenges for effective drug delivery, with conventional methods like eye drops exhibiting low bioavailability (<5%) and transient therapeutic effects. This chapter examines recent advancements in ocular drug delivery systems designed to overcome these limitations, focusing on minimally invasive strategies for anterior segment disorders. Innovations such as long-acting biodegradable and nonbiodegradable implants (e.g., Ozurdex®, Durysta®) enable sustained drug release, reducing administration frequency and enhancing compliance. Electrospun nanofiber patches and particulate systems (liposomes, nanoparticles) improve corneal penetration and retention, while microneedle technology offers precise, painless delivery of biologics and small molecules. Drug-eluting contact lenses integrate therapeutic release with vision correction, leveraging stimuli-responsive materials for controlled delivery. Despite their promise, challenges persist in scalability, regulatory compliance, and clinical translation. Future directions emphasize smart materials, combination therapies, and personalized approaches to optimize efficacy and safety. Collectively, these technologies represent a paradigm shift in ocular therapeutics, addressing chronic conditions like glaucoma, uveitis, and dry eye syndrome with enhanced bioavailability and reduced patient burden. By bridging gaps between innovation and clinical application, these systems hold transformative potential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life in ocular healthcare.