Sustained-release voriconazole-thermogel for subconjunctival injection in horses: ocular toxicity and in-vivo studies.
Authors: Mora-Pereira Mariano, Abarca Eva M, Duran Sue, Ravis William, McMullen Richard J, Fischer Britta M, Lee Yann-Huei Phillip, Wooldridge Anne A
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary Fungal keratitis remains a challenging condition in equine practice, often requiring extended and expensive treatment courses that can compromise vision if poorly managed. Researchers formulated a sustained-release voriconazole delivery system using a thermogel polymer (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) designed for subconjunctival injection, which theoretically bypasses the corneal barrier limitations of topical applications and maintains therapeutic drug levels over prolonged periods. In healthy horse eyes, the subconjunctival thermogel successfully delivered voriconazole to anterior ocular tissues with measurable concentrations in the cornea and aqueous humour, whilst causing only mild, transient inflammatory responses that resolved without permanent damage. For farriers and veterinary practitioners managing keratomycosis cases, this delivery method represents a potentially game-changing approach that could reduce treatment duration and improve outcomes by achieving higher, more sustained antifungal concentrations directly at the infection site compared with conventional topical regimens. Further clinical trials in naturally infected eyes are needed to confirm efficacy and optimal dosing protocols, but this technology suggests a pathway toward more efficient management of this sight-threatening condition.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Subconjunctival voriconazole-thermogel offers a promising alternative to prolonged topical treatment for equine keratomycosis, potentially reducing treatment duration and costs
- •This sustained-release formulation may improve therapeutic outcomes by maintaining therapeutic drug concentrations in the cornea with fewer applications than conventional topical drops
- •The technique appears safe and well-tolerated in horses, supporting further clinical trials for keratomycosis cases
Key Findings
- •Subconjunctival voriconazole-thermogel injection achieved sustained drug release to the anterior ocular segment
- •PLGA-PEG-PLGA thermogel formulation was tolerated in healthy equine eyes without significant adverse clinical effects
- •Subconjunctival route provided superior drug penetration compared to topical administration for antifungal therapy