Co-Delivery of Luminescent C-dots and Clonidine Hydrochloride Loaded Nanocarriers for the Effective Management of Glaucoma

Abstract

Aim/Background: Glaucoma is an eye illness associated with Intraocular Pressure (IOP) that, if untreated, can lead to significant vision impairments and potentially complete blindness. Research indicates that eye infections can elevate Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and lead to glaucoma, with anti-glaucoma treatments being ineffective. Combination therapy, which entails the administration of pharmaceuticals alongside nanoscale antibacterial agents, may serve as an effective alternative in this context. This work created a polymeric Nanocarrier (NCs) for the simultaneous topical delivery of fluorescent Carbon dots (C-dots) and Clonidine Hydrochloride (CH) for the treatment of infection and glaucoma. Materials and Methods: A polymeric nanocarrier was developed using the solvent evaporation method to simultaneously transport fluorescent Carbon Dots (C-dots) and Clonidine Hydrochloride (CH). C-dots were detected using UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to ascertain the dimensions and morphology of NCs. Additionally, Gram-negative E. coli bacteria were utilized in antibacterial studies. Ex vivo permeation and corneal hydration assessments were conducted on goat eyes, whereas in vivo investigations were performed on rabbit eyes. Fluorescence tests demonstrated that when activation by UV radiation, C-dots emitted blue light at a wavelength of 450 nm. Results: This was done after the synthesized C-dots were placed into 125 nm polymeric nanocarriers along with the medication. According to release studies, in physiological conditions, up to 95% of medicines are released in 60 min. Conclusion: In a study on corneal hydration, the nanocarriers exhibited effective hydration, which is essential for their bioavailability. The C-dots exhibited significant antibacterial efficacy against E. coli bacteria. The Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP) of the eye markedly diminished in in vivo testing relative to blank and commercial formulations for duration of up to 4 hr. The findings indicated that C-dots and clonidine hydrochlorides are suitable for treating glaucoma and secondary bacterial infections when administered concurrently through nanocarriers.