Obtenció de nanopartícules polimèriques per a l'administració ocular de fàrmacs i estudis d'interacció amb tècniques biofísiques

Abstract

Ageing is a biological process that leads to a decrease in physiological functions, and is the main risk factor for most common diseases in developed countries. The process causes modifications in biological membranes, especially affecting some body structures, such as the ocular surface. Specifically, the lipids of the corneal ocular surface present modifications related to age, with increased epithelial permeability making the elderly more vulnerable to corneal injuries. Inflammation is one of the most common pathologies evident in ophthalmology, which can affect different eye structures. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are widely used to treat ocular inflammation. Therefore, a drug delivery system such as PLGA biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles is an interesting alternative, as it can improve drug bioavailability, reduce the number of administrations required, and increase therapeutic adherence. This work also encompassed the proposal of a methodology for the development of formulations of nanoparticles that contain encapsulated dexibuprofen, and the creation of a model of corneal membrane that would permit in vitro studies of interactions. Keywords: dexibuprofen, biological membranes, eye, nanoparticles.