Biomimetic nanocomplex based corneal neovascularization theranostics

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a major cause of blindness worldwide. However, the recent drug treatment is limited by repeated administration and low drug bioavailability. In this work, SU6668 (an inhibitor of receptor tyrosine kinases) and indocyanine green (ICG) are loaded onto poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, and then coated with anti-VEGFR2 single chain antibody (AbVr2 scFv) genetically engineered cell membrane vesicles. The nanomedicine is delivered via eye drops, and the hyperthermia induced by laser irradiation could block the blood vessels. Meanwhile, the photothermal effect can also cause the degradation of nanomaterials and release chemotherapeutic drugs in the blocked area, thereby continuously inhibit the neovascularization. Furthermore, SU6668 could inhibit the expression of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), promoting the cell death induced by photothermal effect. In conclusion, the combination of photothermal and chemotherapy drugs provides a novel, effective and safe approach for the treatment of CNV.