The objective of this Phase I proposal is to conduct and complete initial formulation and feasibility studies on a novel crosslinked hyaluronic acid polymer for use in treating traumatic war-related ocular surface injuries. While this proprietary polymer by itself has been shown to enhance healing of the ocular surface based on its intrinsic anti-adhesive and anti-inflammatory properties, it is also uniquely suited as a locally administered, sustained-release drug delivery vehicle for antibiotics, anti-angiogenics, anabolic proteins, and even limbal stem cells to further enhance ocular healing. This proposal will allow for completion of bench methodology studies and assessment of ideal formulations, sterilization approaches, and degradation rates to produce a stable, sterile, and versatile drug-releasing polymer film. Such film could be applied at the time of injury to help accelerate healing and restoration of the ocular surface as well as improve return to duty rates and visual outcomes not only for war-fighters but for civilians suffering from serious ocular surface disease. This grant will allow us to conduct the initial formulation and biocompatibility studies such that the Phase II SBIR can develop these polymeric films into disease- and compound-specific products, thus satisfying the Armys operational requirements of vision restoration and preservation.
