Nano-SOD1 Antioxidant to Treat Ocular Inflammation

Article: Scientists Develop a Safe Drug to Treat Eye Inflammation
Source: National University of Science and Technology MISIS (Russia), via EyeWire News
Published: April 26, 2021

Antioxidant activity in the intraocular fluid of rabbits
on the 8th day of experimental immunogenic uveitis

A team of Russian scientists, along with American colleagues, developed an anti-inflammatory drug specifically for the eyes, which they tested in vivo in a rabbit model of uveitis. Their project involved creating multilayer polyion nanoparticles of the superoxide dismutase enzyme (Nano-SOD1), with a new formulation specifically manufactured for topical use on eyes. Superoxide dismutase is among antioxidant enzymes that are potent scavengers of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the excessive production of which during cellular processes leads to inflammation and tissue degeneration. When this inflammation occurs in ocular structures that are intricately arranged—such as the cornea, the lens, and the retina—the subsequent tissue damage can lead to blurred vision and even vision loss. While superoxide dismutase is an effective antioxidant, its very limited permeability presents a challenge for drug delivery to the eye, a relatively isolated organ that is often preferentially treated locally rather than systemically. As seen in their rabbit model of immunogenic uveitis, one of the authors states, "It was shown during preclinical studies that topical instillations of Nano-SOD1 were 35% more effective in reducing the manifestations of uveitis compared to the free enzyme SOD1. In particular, we noted statistically significant differences in such inflammatory signs of the eye as corneal and conjunctival edema, iris hyperemia and fibrin clots." The authors also report improved penetration into interior eye structures, longer retention of enzyme activity, and greater antioxidant activity for Nano-SOD1 compared to SOD1 by itself. So far, Nano-SOD1 shows a good drug safety profile at wide concentration ranges and at extremely high doses. Preclinical trials continue to explore its potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of ocular inflammation.

My rating of this study: ⭐⭐

Vaneev AN, Kost OA, Eremeev NL, et al. "Superoxide Dismutase 1 Nanoparticles (Nano-SOD1) as a Potential Drug for the Treatment of Inflammatory Eye Diseases." Biomedicines.  9(4):396. 7 April 2021. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines9040396