Government College of Pharmacy, Karad
Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. Conventional therapies often suffer from low bioavailability and frequent dosing, limiting their efficacy. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), a second-generation lipid-based Nano system, offer promising solutions by enhancing drug stability, bioavailability, and sustained release. This review discusses the potential of NLCs for antiglaucoma drug delivery, covering formulation techniques, characterization methods, drug release mechanisms, and recent advances in preclinical and clinical research. Over ten lakh persons worldwide are afflicted with glaucoma each year. It can impair vision and occasionally result in total blindness. Since the conjunctiva, cornea, iris-ciliary body, and retina of the eye contain multiple barriers that prevent drug doses from reaching the site and result in limited drug bioavailability, drug administration through the ocular route has always been difficult. Conventional dosing forms of treatment frequently have the drawback of having a short drug retention period since the medicine exits the ocular cavity through tear production and nasal discharge. The creation of a novel medication delivery technology that would bypass the eye's barrier channels and perhaps improve drug absorption at the site is urgently needed to address these issues.
Glaucoma is a complex visual disorder characterized by an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), which can eventually lead to progressive vision loss. [1] This condition is occurs by gradual degeneration of retinal cells and optic nerve fibers, leading to vision impairment. [2] A key characteristic of glaucoma is the gradual narrowing of peripheral vision, which distinguishes it from other visual disorders. In many cases, glaucoma remains asymptomatic until routine eye examinations reveal early signs. [3] Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, can manifest rapidly, resulting in a sudden and severe loss of vision, often accompanied by symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, corneal swelling, and intense eye pain. Secondary glaucoma, on the other hand, is usually caused by an underlying eye injury or medical condition that increases intraocular pressure [4] There are several types including congenital, pigmentary, neovascular, exfoliative, traumatic, and uveitic variants. [5] While elevated IOP is commonly associated with glaucoma, some individuals may experience vision loss without significant IOP changes, a condition known as normal-tension glaucoma. The majority of glaucoma cases are diagnosed in individuals aged 40 and above, while congenital, developmental, and juvenile forms typically impact younger populations. [6] [7] Glaucoma management typically involves a combination of medication, laser therapy, or surgical intervention, all aimed at lowering intraocular pressure and slowing disease progression. Although these treatments cannot reverse existing optic nerve damage or restore lost visual fields, they can effectively reduce further deterioration. By actively treating affected individuals, healthcare providers strive to minimize vision loss and preserve quality of life. [8]
Epidemiology: [9]
In 2010, an estimated 2.1 million individuals, accounting for 6-5% of the 32.4 million blind people worldwide, were blind due to glaucoma. This condition, primarily affecting older adults, displayed a lower prevalence in younger regions but was more commonly observed in high-income areas with aging populations. Among individuals aged 40 to 80 years, the global prevalence of glaucoma was approximately 3-5%. Specifically, primary open-angle glaucoma affected around 3.1% of this age group, making it nearly six times more common than primary angle-closure glaucoma, which had a prevalence of approximately 0.5%. Demographically, individuals of African descent were more likely to develop primary open-angle glaucoma compared to those of European ancestry, with an odds ratio of 1.36. Gender also played a role, with men having a higher likelihood (OR 2.80) of developing the condition compared to women. Additionally, bilateral blindness caused by glaucoma was observed more frequently in individuals with primary angle-closure glaucoma than those with open-angle glaucoma, suggesting a potentially worse prognosis for the former.
What is Glaucoma: [10] [11][12][13][14]
Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive eye disease characterized by damage to the optic nerve, usually caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP). This damage leads to gradual loss of peripheral vision, and if left untreated, it can result in permanent blindness. Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it typically develops without noticeable symptoms until advanced stages. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.
Fig .1.1: Symptoms of glaucoma
Fig. 1.2: Development of glaucoma
Types and Mechanism of Glaucoma:
Fig. 1.3: Mechanism of glaucoma
Table 1.1: Types of glaucoma with its pathophysiology
Type of Glaucoma |
Mechanism |
Pathophysiology |
Result |
||
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) |
Gradual blockage of trabecular meshwork drainage |
Increased resistance to aqueous humor outflow through trabecular meshwork |
Increased IOP → Optic nerve damage |
||
Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma (PACG) |
Narrow or closed anterior chamber angle prevents aqueous humor drainage |
Pupillary block → Iris bows forward → Closes angle → Sudden rise in IOP |
Acute IOP spike → Severe optic nerve damage |
||
Normal-Tension Glaucoma |
Optic nerve damage without elevated IOP |
Vascular dysregulation or increased optic nerve susceptibility |
Optic neuropathy despite normal IOP |
||
Secondary Glaucoma |
Due to other ocular/systemic conditions |
Causes: trauma, uveitis, steroid use, neovascularization → blocks trabecular meshwork or angle closure |
Variable increase in IOP → Glaucoma symptoms |
||
Congenital Glaucoma |
Developmental anomaly of anterior chamber angle |
improper formation of trabecular meshwork → Decreased outflow |
High IOP in infants → Corneal enlargement |
||
Pigmentary Glaucoma |
Pigment dispersion from iris clogs trabecular meshwork |
Pigment granules block drainage pathway |
Increased IOP over time → Optic nerve damage |
Glaucoma: Cause and Effect: [15-22]
Fig. 1.4: Difference between normal angle and closed angle glaucoma
Treatment of Glaucoma:
Treatment options for glaucoma aim to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent optic nerve damage. Prostaglandin analogs such as latanoprost are commonly used as first-line agents; they increase the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway. Alpha-adrenergic agonists like brimonidine work by both reducing aqueous humor production and enhancing its outflow. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, such as dorzolamide and acetazolamide, lower IOP by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, thereby reducing fluid formation in the eye. Additionally, cholinergic agents like pilocarpine promote aqueous humor drainage through the trabecular meshwork by contracting the ciliary muscle. Timolol maleate is a non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker used effectively in the management of glaucoma, particularly primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Its primary mechanism of action involves the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) by decreasing the production of aqueous humor in the eye. Timolol achieves this by blocking both β1- and β2-adrenergic receptors located in the non-pigmented epithelial cells of the ciliary body. Normally, stimulation of these receptors activates adenylate cyclase, leading to an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which enhances aqueous humor secretion. By inhibiting beta receptor activity, timolol reduces cAMP levels, thereby suppressing aqueous humor formation. Importantly, timolol does not significantly affect aqueous humor outflow, distinguishing it from other classes of antiglaucoma drugs like prostaglandin analogs. The result is a significant reduction in intraocular pressure, typically observed within 30 minutes of administration, with peak effects around 1–2 hours and lasting up to 24 hours. This pressure-lowering action helps prevent further damage to the optic nerve, which is crucial in managing glaucoma and preserving vision. However, since timolol can be systemically absorbed, it may cause side effects such as bradycardia, hypotension, or bronchospasm, especially in patients with asthma, cardiac conditions.
Table.1.2: Drugs used for glaucoma
Nanocarriers for ocular delivery: [26-34]
Benefits compared to conventional drug delivery:
Table. 1.3: Nanocarriers for ocular delivery
System |
Structure |
Size Range |
Advantages |
Applications |
Liposomes |
Phospholipid bilayers enclosing aqueous core |
0.08–10 µm (SUV: 10–100 nm, LUV: 100–300 nm) |
Biocompatible, encapsulates both hydrophilic/lipophilic drugs |
Front & back of the eye drug delivery |
Niosomes |
Bilayered vesicles |
Variable (Discosomes: 10–14 µm) |
Chemically stable, low toxicity, easy storage |
Ophthalmic drug delivery |
Nanomicelles |
Self-assembled Nano systems |
Nanometer range |
Enhances solubility, prolongs ocular retention, increases BA |
Clear aqueous formulations |
Microemulsion |
Isotropic oil/water systems |
10–100 nm (typically) |
High stability, improved solubility & permeability |
Timolol, Sirolimus, Chloramphenicol |
Hydrogels |
Cross-linked polymer networks |
Swellable matrices |
Sustained release, high ocular compatibility |
Mucoadhesive ocular delivery |
Nanoparticles |
Solid colloidal carriers |
10–1000 nm |
High drug loading, multiple routes, stability |
Topical, ocular, systemic |
Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) |
Solid lipid core systems |
50–1000 nm |
Stable, controlled release, better than liposomes & emulsions |
Advanced ocular & systemic delivery |
Fig. 1.5: Nanocarriers for ocular delivery
Nanostructured lipid carrier: [35, 36]
The dual complex of solid or liquid lipids makes up NLC, the second generation of LNPs, which have a mean size between 10 and 500 nm. Solid-lipid and liquid-lipid should ideally be mixed at a ratio of 70:30 to 99.9:0.1. They contain certain nanostructures that increase drug loading and tighten the medication's internal binding, increasing shelf life. Patients may get NLCs intravenously, topically, orally, or through their eyes. Additionally, it helps us transport the medication to the intended location and reduce adverse effects and dosage. Because NLCs resemble bodily lipids, they are widely used in the health zone. The small size of the lipid particle ensures close exposure to the stratum corneum, enabling medication administration to the skin or mucous membranes.
In order to get around the drawbacks of first-pass metabolism, low bioavailability, and low solubility, NLCs have been created.
Advantages of Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs): [37]
Limitations of NLCs
NLC has some disadvantages despite its significant potential for targeted and chosen drug delivery, including:
Structural type of NLCs:
Fig. 1.6: Structure of NLC
NLCs have three quite different characteristics from SLNs, despite their somewhat similar topologies. Depending on the content of the lipid blend and the different production techniques, several types of NLCs are created. To optimize the payload for active compounds and reduce compound ejection during storage, the basic idea is to impart a particular nanostructure to the lipid matrix. The following is a summary of the three types of NLCs: The specification of particular type of NLCs has beed described in Table
Table. 1.4: Features of types of NLCs
Sr.No. |
NLC type |
Nature of matrix |
Comments |
1 |
Imperfect |
Imperfectly structured solid matrix |
Contains a mixture of spatially distinct lipids, creating imperfections in the crystal structure, resulting in high drug loading capacity |
2 |
Amorphous |
Structure less solid amorphous matrix |
Developed by blending solid lipids with specialized lipids like hydroxyoctacosenyl hydroxystearate, isopropyl myristate, or medium-chain triglycerides (e.g., Miglyol 812). This prevents drug expulsion and offers a moderate drug loading capacity |
3 |
Multiple |
Multiple oil in fat in water |
During cooling after homogenization, the drug’s solubility in the lipid phase reduces, leading to crystallization and stability concerns during storage |
Fig .1.7: 1) Imperfect NLC 2) Amorphous NLC 3) Multiple NLC
Methods used for the fabrication of NLCs:
Table 1.5: Method of preparation of NLC
Energy Level |
Method |
Principle/Process |
Advantages |
Limitations |
High Energy |
High Pressure Homogenization (HPH) |
Molten lipid + drug homogenized at high pressure (cold or hot technique). |
Solvent-free, scalable, fast process. |
Equipment cost, heat may degrade thermolabile drugs. |
High Shear Homogenization |
Drug in molten lipid (10°C above melting point) + aqueous surfactant, homogenized at high speed. |
Simple method, creates microemulsions for further processing. |
Less control over particle size. |
|
Low Energy |
Micro-emulsion Technique |
Mix molten lipid with surfactant/co-surfactant aqueous phase → transparent emulsion → cooled for NLC formation. |
Suitable for thermolabile drugs, no special equipment needed. |
Stability dependent on surfactant choice. |
Double Emulsification |
Forms o/w/o emulsions using solvent evaporation method; ideal for hydrophilic drugs. |
Good for water-soluble drugs, useful for lipospheres. |
Larger particle size, less stable than SLNs. |
|
Phase-Inversion Method |
Drug + lipid + surfactant heated above phase inversion temp → rapid cooling → phase reversal leads to nanoparticle formation. |
No organic solvent, low energy, eco-friendly. |
Less stability, requires temperature cycling. |
|
Very Low/No Energy |
Emulsification-Solvent Evaporation |
Lipid + drug in organic solvent → dispersed in aqueous phase → sonication → solvent evaporation → cooling to form NLCs. |
Simple, rapid technique. |
Requires organic solvents, extra purification steps. |
Emulsification-Solvent Diffusion |
Lipid dissolved in partially water-miscible solvent → emulsified in water → solvent diffuses and solidifies to form NLCs. |
Fine particle size, avoids high energy. |
Use of solvents, less eco-friendly. |
Characterization and evaluation of the NLC [42, 45]
Evaluating nanostructures is essential for ensuring their quality and suitability for in vivo applications. Due to their small size, complex lipid composition, and dynamic behavior, NLCs present unique challenges in characterization. Key parameters for assessing NLC quality and stability include drug concentration, particle size, size distribution, zeta potential, surface charge, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release.
Table. 1.6: Characterization and evaluation of the NLC
Parameter |
Method |
Key Insights |
Particle Size, PDI & Zeta Potential |
Measured via Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). |
Indicates particle uniformity and stability. Zeta potential > ±30 mV suggests strong repulsion, reducing aggregation. |
Morphology |
TEM, SEM, and AFM imaging. |
Provides visual confirmation of shape, surface, and structural integrity. TEM is preferred, using stained, dried samples on copper grids. |
Entrapment Efficiency (EE%) |
NLCs are disrupted using solvents, and drug content is measured via UV-spectroscopy. |
EE (%) = (Total drug – Free drug) / Total drug × 100. High EE is common with hydrophobic drugs due to lipid entrapment. [46,47] |
In Vitro Drug Release |
Typically done using dialysis method at 37°C with stirring; samples collected at intervals and analyzed by UV/HPLC. |
Reveals drug release profile over time. Free drug solution serves as control. |
Thermal Behavior (Crystallinity) |
Evaluated via Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). |
Assesses melting points, crystallinity, and polymorphism; involves heating 10 mg sample under nitrogen with data analyzed using DSC software. [51,52,53] |
Crystal Structure Analysis |
X-ray Diffraction (XRD) of freeze-dried samples. |
Determines crystalline or amorphous nature by interpreting diffraction patterns from 20° to 80° (2θ range). [54,55] |
Drug Release Kinetics |
Analyzed through in vitro and controlled release studies. |
Affected by lipid type, surfactants, and drug positioning (core vs surface). Initial burst followed by sustained release is common. [56,57,58] |
Ex Vivo Corneal Permeation |
Delta diffusion cells with goat corneas and simulated tear fluid at 37°C. |
Measures permeation and retention. Drug is quantified using UV spectrophotometry, and flux is calculated from the slope of permeation curve. [71] |
Applications of NLC in ocular delivery:
Creating a revolutionary delivery system that can effectively target the ocular tissue that is diseased, deliver high quantities of the treatment, and maintain the drug's effects with few to no side effects [59] Because of certain physiological and anatomical characteristics of the eyes, ocular medication administration has numerous disadvantages and is still difficult. The eyes are a sensitive, intricate organ with many barriers. These obstacles can be addressed by innovative drug delivery methods like SLNs and NLCs, which improve ocular bioavailability. Its capacity to encapsulate hydrophobic medications, protect unstable components, and alter release behavior are further benefits. For the past several decades, 61 SLN has been used for ocular administration. Numerous research employing NLC as an ocular delivery mechanism is now well-known. NLC has been used to deliver some medications, like ciprofloxacin or amphotericin B, into the eyes. [62,63,64] The numerous ocular disorders that can affect both the front and back of the eye make it difficult to manage ophthalmic disease effectively. To get the medication to the intended location, a variety of ocular administration techniques are employed, including topical, intraocular, periocular, and in conjunction with ocular devices. Nanotechnologies were used to improve eye retention time, medication penetration, and ocular bioavailability while reducing duration of drug consumption and side effects. This method improved the drug's efficacy and demonstrated good biocompatibility, suggesting that it will be widely utilized to treat eye infections. [65]
Recent Studies on NLCs: [66, 67, 68, 69]
Table. 1.7: Recent Studies on NLCs
Study |
Drug |
Lipid Components |
Method |
Key Findings |
Cavalli et al. |
Tobramycin |
Not specified |
Not specified |
six hours of continuous medication release as opposed to the shorter time frame of traditional eye drops. |
Attama et al. |
Diclofenac Sodium |
Lipid nanoparticles + Phospholipids High- |
High-pressure homogenization |
Enhancing ocular delivery, phospholipid coating increased corneal permeability. |
Araujo et al. |
Triamcinolone Acetonide |
Precirol ATO5 (solid lipid), Squalene (liquid lipid), Lutrol F68 (surfactant) |
High-pressure homogenization |
The drug is mainly trapped in an amorphous NLC matrix; the Draize test shows little eye harm. |
Zhang et al. |
Genistein |
Eudragit-modified NLC |
Melt emulsification |
enhanced ocular permeability, increased AUC by 1.22×, and Draize and cytotoxicity tests revealed no harm. |
E. Gonzalez-Mira et al. |
Flurbiprofen |
Optimized lipid quantities |
High-pressure homogenization |
Long-term stability, controlled release, and lack of discomfort have all been verified. |
Other Applications [70,71]
NLCs in chemotherapy for cancer:
Numerous chemotherapeutic medications have been encapsulated or integrated into NLCs within the last two to three years, and their effects have been assessed both in vitro and in vivo. These research' findings have been demonstrated to enhance pharmacokinetics, decrease adverse effects, boost potency, and improve medication stability, making them useful tools for clinical settings. The use of NLCs for delivery can help to partially address some of the issues that are frequently encountered with antibodies, such as tissue toxicity, poor quality, and stability.
NLC in peptide and protein delivery:
Other carriers for the treatment of proteins, peptides, and antigens include lipid nanoparticles and lipid microparticles, such as NLC and SLN. Lipid products contain peptides that are presently being studied, including somatostatin, insulin, calcitonin, and cyclosporine A.
NLC in CNS targeting:
Pharmaceutical applications may benefit from NLC's modest size (less than 50 nm). Reticuloendothelial disorders tend to be considerably less harmful to small people. Additionally, NLCs can be utilized medicinally. NLC is a promising medication targeting system for the treatment of organ illnesses and can enhance a medicine's capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier. NLCs have superior efficiency, greater drug loading, and less cytotoxicity than polymeric nanoparticles.
REFERENCE
Sampada Potdar*, Dr. A. H. Hosmani, Sharayu Gotpagar, Lovely Jain, Rutuja Kadam, Rutuja Sawakhande, Rajashri Tambe, Formulation and Development of Nanostructured Lipid Carrier for Glaucoma, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2025, 2 (6), 615-630. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15721569