Silk Fibroin Hydrogel Microneedles Loaded with Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor for Corneal Tissue Engineering.

ABSTRACT: Corneal nerves are essential for maintaining the functional integrity of the ocular surface. Damage to corneal nerves can lead to corneal issues and impaired vision. Current treatments for corneal nerve damage are inadequate, thus highlighting the need for innovative therapeutic approaches. In this study, we present a hydrogel microneedle system designed to facilitate the sustained release of recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF). The microneedle features a tip composed of glycidyl methacrylate modified silk fibroin (SFMA) loaded with rhNGF, photopolymerized for structural integrity, while its base is formed using silk fibroin (SF). This design allows the microneedles to penetrate the corneal epithelium and deliver rhNGF to the sub-epithelial layer. The crosslinking process not onl

SUBMITTER: Zhang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12899253 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature