We are excited to feature a recent study published in Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, titled “Characterization of PLGA versus PEG-PLGA Intracochlear Drug Delivery Implants: Degradation Kinetics, Morphological Changes, and pH Alterations”. Conducted by researchers from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg and several leading institutions, the study investigates the degradation behavior of intracochlear drug delivery implants (IDDI) using poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and polyethylene glycol–PLGA (PEG-PLGA).
Key Findings
- Degradation Kinetics: PLGA-based implants exhibited rapid water uptake and mass loss, whereas PEG-PLGA implants showed delayed water uptake and more stable degradation.
- Morphological Changes: PLGA implants expanded significantly (up to 183% in diameter and 185% in length) and underwent surface degradation, while PEG-PLGA implants retained their structure longer.
- pH Stability: PLGA implants caused an initial pH reduction in artificial perilymph, whereas PEG-PLGA implants maintained a more neutral pH environment, which may be beneficial for inner ear biocompatibility.
Why This Matters
Inner ear drug delivery faces significant challenges due to the blood-labyrinth barrier and the delicate cochlear environment. This study provides crucial insights into how biodegradable implants can be used for controlled, localized drug release, particularly for conditions like hearing loss and cochlear implantation-associated fibrosis. The findings suggest that PEG-PLGA may offer a safer and more effective alternative for intracochlear applications.
Access the Full Study
The full paper is available in Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology and can be accessed here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jddst.2024.105972
Congratulations to the authors Eric Lehner, Arne Liebau, Matthias Menzel, Christian E.H. Schmelzer, Wolfgang Knolle, Jonas Scheffler, Wolfgang H. Binder, Stefan K. Plontke, and Karsten Mäder for their important contribution to the field of drug delivery and biomedical research!
Stay tuned for more updates on cutting-edge research from the POLIFACES network.