## Aims This project aims to develop advanced drug delivery systems including ocular inserts and aptamer-based carriers for sustained release of therapeutics and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) products. ## Background Poor drug bioavailability and frequent dosing are major challenges in ocular therapeutics. Novel delivery systems can improve patient compliance and treatment outcomes while enabling delivery of complex molecules. ## Work to be Done The project will develop biodegradable ocular inserts for extended drug release, create aptamer-based targeted delivery systems, validate sustained release of TCM formulations, and conduct preclinical testing of novel formulations. ## Benefits Benefits include (1) reduced dosing frequency improving patient compliance, (2) more consistent drug levels and improved efficacy, (3) targeted delivery reducing side effects, and (4) enabling delivery of previously difficult-to-formulate therapeutics. ## Impact Advanced delivery systems will improve therapeutic outcomes across a wide range of ocular conditions while reducing treatment burden for patients.
