Transepithelial Corneal Cross-Linking Advancement With Novel Hibiscus-Inspired Rf/Zif-8 Composites
Published 2024 - 42nd Congress of the ESCRS
Reference: PO790 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/95vw-nx22
Authors: Jinhai Huang* 1 , Mei Yang 1 , Colm McAlinden 2 , Keith M. Meek 3 , Xingtao Zhou 1
1Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University,Shanghai,China, 2Corneo Plastic Unit & Eye Bank, Queen Victoria Hospital,East Grinstead,United Kingdom, 3Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University,Cardiff,United Kingdom
Purpose
Hibiscus-like RF@ZIF-8NF composites were developed to enhance TE-CXL efficacy while preserving the epithelium, offering an innovative approach for keratoconus treatment.
Setting
Prospective study at Fudan University.
Methods
The RF@ZIF-8 composites were synthesized using 5-phosphoric acid-riboflavin (RF), 2-methylimi, and zinc nitrate as precursors, through the optimization of reaction conditions. Detailed material characterization, alongside in vitro and in vivo biological evaluations, were conducted for the synthesized RF@ZIF-8 composites.
Results
The doping of RF in appropriate range has little effect on the phase structure of ZIF-8, while the morphology and size of the composites can be adjusted by changing reaction factors. Under identical conditions, various experimental outcomes demonstrated that the synthesized RF@ZIF-8 composites exhibit superior corneal permeability, with increased RF concentration within the stroma compared to other groups. Biocompatibility assessments revealed that the RF@ZIF-8 NF nanocomposites possess outstanding biocompatibility without causing discernible damage to the cornea. In vivo studies showed that the TE-CXL efficacy of the RF@ZIF-8 composite matched or slightly surpassed that of standard CXL (SCXL).
Conclusions
The engineered hibiscus-like RF@ZIF-8NF composites demonstrated superior TE-CXL performance with epithelial preservation, rivaling or even exceeding that of SCXL. This novel TE-CXL nanotherapy heralds a promising strategy for keratoconus treatment, offering significant research potential and pioneering a new avenue in CXL development.