Development of an Ophthalmic Hydrogel to Deliver MG53 and Promote Corneal Wound Healing.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objective: A clinical need exists for more effective therapeutics and sustained drug delivery systems to promote ocular surface healing. This study tested the hypothesis that a novel biodegradable, thermoresponsive hydrogel loaded with the human recombinant (rh)MG53 protein, which we have demonstrated to promote corneal healing without fibrosis, would exhibit safety and biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Hydrogel optimization was performed based on varying concentrations of poloxamer 407, poloxamer 188, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. Hydrogels were characterized and potential toxicity was evaluated in vitro in cultured corneal epithelium, fibroblasts, and endothelium. In vivo safety and tolerability were assessed in mice and hydrogels were used to

SUBMITTER: Chandler HL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12030682 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature