In a groundbreaking advancement for ophthalmic treatment, researchers have developed a diclofenac-loaded thermogel aimed at addressing the urgent issue of corneal alkali burns. This innovative approach not only targets inflammation but also enhances drug delivery, setting a new standard in the management of eye injuries. Lead author Zhengwei Ge, affiliated with Aier Eye Hospital at Jinan University in Guangzhou, China, emphasizes the significance of this research, stating, “Our thermogel formulation offers a stable and efficient way to deliver medication directly to the affected area, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for corneal injuries.”
Corneal alkali burns, often caused by exposure to harmful chemicals, can lead to serious complications, including vision loss. Current treatments are often inadequate, highlighting the need for more effective solutions. The newly developed thermogel is crafted by dissolving methylcellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in phosphate-buffered saline, followed by the incorporation of diclofenac. The result is a temperature-sensitive gel that remains injectable at body temperature, allowing for easy application directly to the injured cornea.
The research team conducted extensive evaluations, including rheological properties, swelling behavior, and in vitro release studies, to ensure the thermogel’s efficacy. Remarkably, the gel maintained a stable form at 35 °C and released diclofenac over a period of seven days, demonstrating its potential for sustained therapeutic effects. In both in vitro and in vivo studies, the thermogel exhibited excellent biocompatibility, promoting the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 while inhibiting harmful pro-inflammatory factors.
This development holds significant implications not only for ophthalmology but also for the construction sector. Workers in construction are frequently exposed to hazardous materials that can lead to eye injuries, including alkali burns. With a reliable and effective treatment option now on the horizon, the potential for reducing downtime and improving recovery outcomes for construction workers is substantial. Ge remarks, “By providing a targeted and effective treatment for eye injuries, we can enhance workplace safety and productivity in high-risk environments.”
As this research is disseminated through reputable publications like ‘Macromolecular Materials and Engineering’—translated as “Materials and Engineering of Macromolecules”—the implications for future developments in both medical treatment and workplace safety are profound. The intersection of healthcare innovation and occupational safety could pave the way for new standards in the construction industry, ultimately fostering a safer working environment for all.
For more information about Zhengwei Ge’s work, visit Aier Eye Hospital.