Intraocular delivery of bioactive molecules using iontophoresis

Abstract

Iontophoresis, a minimally-invasive methodology that uses a weak electric current to enhance penetration of ionized molecules into tissues, was found to be an effective technique for the intraocular delivery of large bioactive molecules, specifically lutein.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A method of depositing a bioactive molecule in ocular tissues, comprising the steps of formulating a liposome containing the bioactive molecule, charging an iontophoresis device with a composition of the bioactive molecule-containing liposome, applying the iontophoresis device to the eye of a subject, and operating the iontophoresis device. 
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the bioactive molecule is selected from the group consisting of carotenoids. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein the carotenoid is selected from the group consisting of lutein and zeaxanthin. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the liposome has a positive zeta potential. 
     
     
         5 . A method of treating, ameliorating or preventing an ocular disease or dysfunction, comprising the steps of formulating a liposome containing the bioactive molecule, charging an iontophoresis device with a composition of the bioactive molecule-containing liposome, applying the iontophoresis device to the eye of a subject, and operating the iontophoresis device. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein treating, ameliorating or preventing an ocular disease or dysfunction is delaying the onset of age-related macular degeneration. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein treating, ameliorating or preventing ocular disease or dysfunction is preventing or delaying the progression of age-related macular degeneration. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein the ocular disease or dysfunction is age-related macular degeneration. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein the ameliorating or preventing of an ocular disease or dysfunction comprises carrying out the method in healthy subjects.