Abstract
Polyion complex (PIC) micelles have a size range of tens of nanometers formed through electrostatic interaction. In experimental choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in rats, the PIC micelle accumulates to the CNV lesions and is retained. PIC micelles can be used for effective drug delivery to CNV. A novel dendritic photosensitizer encapsulated by a polymeric-micelle formulation was employed for an effective photodynamic therapy for age-related macular degeneration. With its highly selective accumulation on experimental CNV lesions, this treatment resulted in a remarkably efficacious CNV occlusion with minimal unfavorable phototoxicity. Gene therapy is a promising approach to treat age-related macular degeneration. A ternary complex, composed of a core containing DNA packaged with cationic peptides and enveloped in the anionic dendrimer phthalocyanine, has been developed, which provides the photosensitizing action. Subconjunctival injection of the ternary complex followed by laser irradiation resulted in transgene expression only in the laser-irradiated site in rats.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The author has no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.