From Molecular Targets to Advanced Delivery Systems: Aptamers for Precision Ocular Therapeutics

Ocular disorders, ranging from anterior surface diseases to posterior segment pathologies present significant challenges and opportunities in therapeutic delivery. The unique anatomical and physiological barriers of the eye demand precision therapeutics that go beyond the limitations of traditional biologics. Aptamers, often termed “chemical antibodies,” have emerged as a transformative class of therapeutics, that circumvents these barriers. This review analyses critical molecular targets across major ocular diseases for example TNF‐a, MMP9, and chemokines in dry eye disease; TGFβ2, GD15 in glaucoma; VEGF and complement components in age related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy as foundations for next generation aptamer‐based therapeutic and diagnostic design. It also highlights the latest advancements in sustained‐release delivery systems to address persistent challenges in ocular pharmacology, including overcoming ocular barriers, preventing rapid clearance, and improving bioavailability. Furthermore, the review addresses current translational barriers, including nuclease degradation, rapid ocular clearance, and complex regulatory hurdles that must be navigated to bring these therapies to clinical practice. As research progresses toward identifying disease‐specific signatures, the high tunability and customization of aptamers offer a promising avenue for revolutionizing interventions in complex ocular conditions, ultimately signalling a shift toward more personalized and effective eye care.