Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to a mucoadhesive nanoparticle delivery system. The nanoparticles are formed from amphiphilic macromolecules conjugated to a mucosal targeting moiety in such a manner that the surface of the nanoparticle is coated with the targeting moiety. The surface density of the targeting moiety can be tuned for adjustable targeting of the nanoparticles to a mucosal site without substantially compromising the stability of the particles. The particles were found to have high loading efficiency and sustained release properties at the mucosal site. The present disclosure also relates to polymers and macromolecules useful in the preparation of the mucoadhesive nanoparticles, as well as compositions, methods, commercial packages, kits and uses related thereto.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mucoadhesive nanoparticle delivery system for delivering an immunosuppressant, such as cyclosporine A, to a mucosal site for treatment of a disease or condition involving inflammation or excess immune activity. The system comprises nanoparticles formed from a plurality of linear amphiphilic block copolymers, each having a hydrophobic block comprising polylactide (PLA) and a hydrophilic block comprising dextran. The nanoparticles are surface-functionalized with a mucosal targeting moiety, such as a phenylboronic acid derivative, for targeted delivery and enhanced retention at the mucosal site. Pharmaceutical compositions, methods, and uses thereof comprising the mucoadhesive nanoparticle delivery system are disclosed. The compositions can be administered in an effective amount for treating the disease or condition while substantially preserving or restoring the function and/or integrity of the mucosal lining.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mucoadhesive nanoparticle delivery system for delivering an immunosuppressant, such as cyclosporine A, to a mucosal site for treatment of a disease or condition involving inflammation or excess immune activity. The system comprises nanoparticles formed from a plurality of linear amphiphilic block copolymers, each having a hydrophobic block comprising polylactide (PLA) and a hydrophilic block comprising dextran. The nanoparticles are surface-functionalized with a mucosal targeting moiety, such as a phenylboronic acid derivative, for targeted delivery and enhanced retention at the mucosal site. Pharmaceutical compositions, methods, and uses thereof comprising the mucoadhesive nanoparticle delivery system are disclosed. The compositions can be administered in an effective amount for treating the disease or condition while substantially preserving or restoring the function and/or integrity of the mucosal lining.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for the direct detection of pathogen in a sample using unmodified metallic nanoparticles, such as gold nanoparticles. The method may employ colorimetric detection. The combination of unmodified metallic nanoparticles and colorimetric detection provides a method that is simple, rapid, and economical compared to prior art methods that require modified nanoparticles or expensive detection equipment. The method does not require labeling of the target pathogen and is capable of detecting a broad spectrum of pathogens.

Abstract: A used contact lens is placed in a contact lens receptacle. An aqueous composition is added to the contact lens receptacle, the aqueous composition capable of changing from a first appearance to a second appearance in response to an interaction with the used contact lens after a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A contact lens having nanoparticles integrated within, or deposited onto, the contact lens. A method for altering the optical density and spectral transmission or reflection response of a contact lens. The method includes obtaining a nanoparticle solution having a predetermined concentration. The method further includes exposing the contact lens in the nanoparticle solution for a predetermined period of time. A method for manufacturing a contact lens further includes exposing contact lens material to nanoparticles for a predetermined period of time to alter the optical density and spectral transmission or reflection response of the contact lens material. A contact lens may be formed after the material is exposed to the nanoparticles.