Dendrimers for sustained release of compounds

Abstract

Dendrimer-based compositions and methods are provided, that are useful for administering pharmaceutical compositions to target cells and tissues for treatment of ocular diseases including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa.

1 . A nanoparticle comprising a generation 4 (G4) polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer-branched polymer with an —OH terminal group conjugated to a biologically-active compound. 
     
     
         2 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the biologically-active compound is selected from the group consisting of steroids, hormones, growth factors, vitamins, nucleic acids, oligonucleotides, and peptides. 
     
     
         3 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the biologically-active compound is selected from the group consisting of anti-oxidants, neuroprotective agents, and imaging agents. 
     
     
         4 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the biologically-active compound is an anti-oxidant. 
     
     
         5 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , wherein the biologically-active compound is fluocinolone acetonide or minocycline. 
     
     
         6 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , incorporated into a liposome, a microcapsule, a nanocapsule, an injectible hydrogel, or a controlled-release implant. 
     
     
         7 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , incorporated into a coating on an implantable device. 
     
     
         8 . A nanoparticle of  claim 1 , encapsulated in a biodegradable particle comprising polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PGLA).