RESUMO
Vancomycin-loaded N,N-dodecyl,methyl-polyethylenimine nanoparticles coated with hyaluronic acid (VCM-DMPEI nanoparticles/HA) were synthesized as an adjuvant for the treatment of bacterial endophthalmitis. The nanoparticles were formulated by experimental statistical design, thoroughly characterized, and evaluated in terms of bactericidal activity and both in vitro and in vivo ocular biocompatibility. The VCM-DMPEI nanoparticles/HA were 154 ± 3 nm in diameter with a 0.197 ± 0.020 polydispersity index; had a + 26.4 ± 3.3 mV zeta potential; exhibited a 93% VCM encapsulation efficiency; and released 58% of the encapsulated VCM over 96 h. VCM and DMPEI exhibited a synergistic bactericidal effect. The VCM-DMPEI nanoparticles/HA were neither toxic to ARPE-19 cells nor irritating to the chorioallantoic membrane. Moreover, the VCM-DMPEI nanoparticles/HA did not induce modifications in retinal functions, as determined by electroretinography, and in the morphology of the ocular tissues. In conclusion, the VCM-DMPEI nanoparticles/HA may be a useful therapeutic adjuvant to treat bacterial endophthalmitis.