Tailoring the Delivery of Resveratrol: Developing Polymeric Nanoparticles and Thermoreversible Gel Formulations

Document Type

Poster Presentation

Publication Date

4-17-2026

Keywords

fsc2026

Abstract

Background: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss, driven by abnormal blood vessel growth and inflammation. Resveratrol (RES) is a natural antioxidant with promising anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties; however, its clinical effectiveness is limited by poor solubility and low bioavailability.

Objective: This study aimed to develop RES-encapsulated polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) and thermoreversible (TR) gels to achieve prolonged, localized action at the posterior segment of the eye for AMD treatment, ultimately minimizing the need for frequent intravitreal injections.

Methods: RES-loaded mPEG-PLGA and mPEG-PCL NPs were prepared using the emulsion solvent evaporation method. The formulations were characterized for size, surface charge, entrapment efficiency (EE), and morphology. A PolyVivo AK109 (PLCL-PEG-PLCL) TR gel (20% w/v) was also prepared. In vitro RES release from NPs, TR gels, and NP-loaded TR gels was evaluated using the dialysis membrane method and quantified via a validated HPLC method.

Results: PCL and PLGA NPs exhibited sizes of 51.91 ± 6.7 nm and 60.73 ± 4.9 nm, respectively, with monodispersed distributions and spherical morphology. Both formulations achieved high EE (PCL: 86 ± 5.7%; PLGA: 82 ± 2.6%). Free RES solution released rapidly in ~4 hours. Conversely, RES PLGA and PCL NPs released their drug content over 6 and 7 days, respectively. Incorporating RES NPs into TR gels further prolonged release, with more than 80% of the drug released over 10 to 15 days.

Conclusion: Both PLGA and PCL NPs achieved high drug encapsulation and uniform particle distribution. Incorporating these RES and RES-loaded NPs into TR gels led to the highly sustained release of RES, offering a promising delivery platform for AMD.

Comments

Poster presented at the 2026 Fisher Showcase, St. John Fisher University, April 17, 2026.

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