Corneal Penetrating Elastin-Like Polypeptide Carriers.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) is a bioengineered protein widely applied as a drug carrier due to its biocompatibility and amenability to modification with cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and therapeutic agents. The purpose of this study was to determine whether topically applied ELP or CPP-fused ELPs penetrate the corneal barrier.

Methods

In vitro binding and cytotoxicity to human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells were determined for ELP or CPP-ELPs. Corneal binding, clearance, and penetration were assessed in a rabbit model following topical application of the fluorescently labeled proteins by quantitative fluorescence imaging and histology.

Results

ELP bound to HCE cells in vitro, and binding/uptake was enhanced 2- to 3-fold by the addition of CPPs. When appl

SUBMITTER: George EM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4939452 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature