In vitro and in vivo evaluation of carboplatin delivery to the eye using hydrogel-iontophoresis.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate in vitro and in vivo hydrogel-iontophoresis delivery of carboplatin to the eye.


METHODS
Iontophoresis was applied on agar gels resembling the eye using different current intensities and durations. Transscleral iontophoresis was performed on healthy rabbits, applying 0, 1, and 3 mA current for 10 min.


RESULTS
Similar drug concentrations were obtained in all experimental groups, in in vitro and in vivo studies, regardless of the iontophoretic current applied. A 20-mm penetration depth was found for carboplatin at the agar model. High drug levels were found at the sclera and retina, while lower levels were found at ocular fluids.


CONCLUSIONS
Carboplatin-iontophoretic application at the above conditions does not have an obvious advantage over passive penetration due to high diffusion properties and insufficient molecular charge. Passive carboplatin diffusion from loaded hydrogels inserted in the lower cul-de-sac should be further investigated as a potential clinical treatment for intraocular retinoblastoma.
Eljarrat-Binstock
Esther
E
Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Domb
Abraham J
AJ
Orucov
Faik
F
Dagan
Amir
A
Frucht-Pery
Joseph
J
Pe'er
Jacob
J
D000362:Agar / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D016190:Carboplatin / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D007478:Iontophoresis / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008689:Methacrylates / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011817:Rabbits; D012590:Sclera / Q000378:metabolism
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D008689:Methacrylates; C005044:hydroxyethyl methacrylate; D000362:Agar; D016190:Carboplatin