(429) Development of PEG and VE containing block copolymer to form nanomicelles for ocular drug delivery

Introduction: Eye drops are the most common method of treating anterior diseases, but physiological barriers result in less than 5% of the instilled dose reaching the ocular tissues. Vitamin E (VE) is a potent antioxidant, while polyethylene glycol (PEG) can promote mucoadhesion and cornea penetration. Nanomicelles offer outstanding potential to overcome barriers. In this work, we designed and synthesized a PEG and VE containing amphiphilic block copolymer which forms micelles for encapsulating hydrophobic ophthalmic drugs in order to sustain drug release and improve bioavailability.