Development and Characterisation of Curcuminoid Loaded Hydrogel for the Effective Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy

Background: The leading cause of vision loss in individuals with diabetes worldwide is diabetic retinopathy. A curcuminoid-loaded hydro gel has been proposed to improve solubility and ocular permeation. Aim: A gel-based formulation using gellan gum was hypothesised to enhance its bioavailability. The RP-HPLC analysis confirmed curcuminoid isolated from raw turmeric. Methods: By varying the gellan gum concentrations, three different formulations were developed. The developed curcuminoid-loaded gel formulation was further characterised by its FT-IR signature analysis, particle size, zeta potential, morphology and in-vitro release behaviour. Results: The signature analysis results indicate a drug’s signature in the formulation. The study revealed sphere-sized particles ranging from 6387±113 to 4595±184 nm with zeta potential ranging from -21 ±2.29 mV to -19.6 ±3.19 mV. A sustained release pattern was observed by the in-vitro release studies. The results of ex vivo corneal permeation studies indicate that the developed curcuminoid loaded hydrogel have some exposure to the posterior segment of the eye. Conclusion: To conclude the developed curcuminoid hydrogel may provide exposure to the posterior segment of the eye due to its significant corneal permeation property.