Controlled Release of Molecules to Enhance Cell Survival and Regeneration

Methods Mol Biol. 2025:2848:259-267. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4087-6_16.

Abstract

Controlled release or controlled drug delivery comprises the set of techniques and approaches to improve bioavailability through improved safety and/or efficacy using a carrier material for the molecule of interest. The predictability and tunability of these carriers make them ideal for protection, localization, and sustained presentation of a wide range of therapeutics, including growth factors implicated in cell survival and regeneration. Here we provide a method for encapsulating epidermal growth factor in a degradable polymer matrix for delivery to the cornea. Additional notes are included to demonstrate the wide-ranging capabilities of such methods for other materials, therapeutic agents, and sites of action within the eye.

Keywords: Controlled release; Cornea; Drug delivery; Polymer; Regeneration.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Survival* / drug effects
  • Cornea / cytology
  • Cornea / metabolism
  • Delayed-Action Preparations*
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Epidermal Growth Factor / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Regeneration

Substances

  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Epidermal Growth Factor
  • Polymers
  • Drug Carriers