Nanoparticle-mediated corneal neovascularization treatments: Toward new generation of drug delivery systems

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is one of the major factors for vision impairment and blindness worldwide. The current treatment for CNV focuses primarily on topical eyedrops of glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, electro-coagulation and laser photo-coagulation. Unfortunately, coagulation-based treatment is restricted by corneal hemorrhage and iris atrophy. And drug treatments have limited therapeutic effects and a short duration of action. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems are widely applied due to their improved pharmacokinetics, optimized drug targeting and enhanced biocompatibility. In this article, we provide a comprehensive and systematic overview of the CNV nanodrug system, highlighting some of the recent advances in nanodrug design, preparation, and functional modification. Moreover, we discuss the challenges in the clinical translation and potential risks in CNV treatment. A greater effort is needed for the potential applications of nanotechnology in the field of ophthalmology.