Abstract: The complex physiological structures and multiple biological barriers of the eye pose significant challenges to drug delivery, resulting in poor absorption and limited therapeutic efficacy of conventional treatments. In this review, nanomaterials with their distinctive physicochemical properties and biocompatibility have emerged as essential tools in the diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases. We summarized the latest advancements in the application of nanomaterials for targeted drug delivery, smart therapeutic strategies, and early diagnostic technologies specific to ocular diseases. This work provides a comprehensive analysis of the design concepts, biocompatibility, and controlled release mechanisms of various nanocarriers. It also examines their therapeutic potential in inflammatory eye diseases and retinal degenerative conditions. Additionally, the advantages of naturally derived nanomaterials and their potential applications in ocular drug delivery systems are explored. Furthermore, the role of stem cell therapies in enhancing tissue regeneration and supporting treatment efficacy is discussed. In the future, this review discusses the integration of nanotechnology with artificial intelligence to advance the development of precision medicine in ophthalmology by elucidating their synergistic roles. The aim of this article is to provide researchers and clinicians with a systematic theoretical foundation and practical guidelines to promote the clinical translation and application of nanomaterials in the field of ophthalmology. Distinct from existing reviews, this work integrates nanomaterial design advances with stem cell therapy, artificial intelligence and smart responsive systems, comprehensively addresses clinical translation challenges, and provides a forward-looking perspective on personalized ophthalmic medicine, filling the gap of lacking a holistic cross-disciplinary summary in current literature. The diagram is divided into four sections around an eye illustration. Nanomaterials include: • Liposomes • Gold nanoparticle • Polymeric nanoparticle • Carbon nanotube Advanced Diagnostics features: • Retinal scan • Tear drop • Magnifying glass • Microchip Smart Systems and AI consist of: • NIR light • pH scale • Artificial intelligence • Cogwheel Targeted Therapy includes: • Syringe • Target identification • Stem cell • Light beam.A diagram showing nanomaterials, diagnostics, AI systems and therapy in eye-related applications. Keywords: nanomaterials, ocular diseases, nanocarriers, intelligent drug delivery, early diagnosis, natural nanomaterials, stem cell therapy, artificial intelligence, targeted therapy
Su et al. (Wed,) studied this question.