This study demonstrates improved ocular delivery and drug release of Diclofenac using DNA-enhanced HPMC films, suggesting significant therapeutic efficacy.
The use of DNA in ocular drug delivery as a polymeric bio additive has potential in modulating the physicochemical properties of the film former to sustain drug release. This study reports the development and evaluation of DNA-incorporated HPMC film matrices to improve the ocular delivery and therapeutic efficacy of Diclofenac. Four formulations (DH1-DH4) were prepared with increasing DNA ratios (0, 1:0.01, 1:0.02, and 1:0.03). FTIR, DSC, and XRD analyses confirmed amorphous dispersion of Diclofenac within the matrix without chemical degradation, while SEM revealed a uniform and smooth film morphology. DNA incorporation significantly enhanced hydration (DH4: 620 ± 31.45%), transparency (DH4: ∼55% transmittance at 800 nm), and matrix erosion (DH4: 432 ± 30.25%), which contributed to improved drug release (DH4: 88.3 ± 2.6% at 300 min) and permeation (DH4: 89.5 ± 3.2% at 12 h). Kinetic modeling indicated a strong fit to the Higuchi model (R2 = 0.95-0.99), while Korsmeyer-Peppas n values (0.37-0.52) suggested anomalous (non-Fickian) diffusion mechanisms. Stability studies confirmed high moisture retention (DH4: 96 ± 1.5%) and tensile strength (DH4: 20 ± 1.5 MPa) over three months, ensuring the formulation's shelf stability. Antioxidant assays demonstrated superior activity in DH4, with DPPH (IC50: 32 ± 1.8 μM) and H2O2 scavenging (IC50: 39 ± 1.7 μM). Overall, Diclofenac-DNA-HPMC films, particularly DH4, exhibit significant potential for effective ocular drug delivery by enhancing the therapeutic performance while maintaining stability and patient compliance.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Panda et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: