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Currently, vision impairment is one of the most pressing global health issues. Worldwide, approximately 2.2 billion people suffer from various degrees of vision impairment. This highlights not only the medical, but also the socio-economic significance of the problem. In particular, diseases such as glaucoma are among the leading causes of irreversible blindness. This issue is also relevant in Kazakhstan: in recent years, the prevalence of glaucoma has increased significantly. Additionally, although less common, conditions such as keratomycosis — fungal eye infections — can lead to severe complications, up to complete loss of vision.

This creates a need to develop effective and safe methods for treating eye diseases. One traditional approach is the frequent use of eye drops. However, this method has several limitations. First, frequent administration is inconvenient for patients. Second, preservatives and excipients in the formulation can negatively affect ocular tissues with prolonged use. Third, the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the eye make it difficult for the medication to reach the target site in sufficient amounts for a prolonged period.

The tear film, blinking mechanism, and other protective systems on the eye’s surface quickly wash away medications. As a result, only 1–5% of the administered dose reaches the target area. This not only reduces the treatment’s effectiveness but also necessitates higher doses, which increases the risk of side effects.

To address these challenges, modern science is focusing on the development of next-generation drug delivery systems. Systems based on polymeric materials are of particular interest. These materials are distinguished by their biocompatibility, flexibility, and the ability to modify their properties easily.

Scientists at 91��ý Kazakh National University are actively researching in this area. Their goal is to develop innovative drug delivery systems for treating eye diseases. These systems are based on mucoadhesive polymers, which adhere to the ocular mucosa and allow the drug to act over an extended period.

Mucoadhesion is the ability of a drug to interact with the surface tissues of the eye and remain there for a long time. This increases the drug’s bioavailability and treatment effectiveness. Additionally, the research employs an “in situ” gel-forming technology. In this approach, the drug is initially in a liquid state and transforms into a gel upon contact with the eye. This ensures prolonged retention and gradual release of the drug on the ocular surface.

During the research, natural and synthetic polymers are modified using specialized chemical methods. Specifically, methacrylate and maleimide groups are introduced into the polymers. These functional groups enhance the mucoadhesive properties and gel-forming ability of the polymers, providing significant potential for the development of new drug formulations.

Furthermore, the developed systems are combined with various drugs, and their interactions are studied. For example, medications such as timolol or brimonidine are used for treating glaucoma, while fluconazole is applied against fungal infections. These studies allow for the evaluation of drug release rates, penetration into ocular tissues, and overall effectiveness.

Safety is a critical aspect of the project. Therefore, specialized biological and toxicological tests are conducted. At the cellular level, cytotoxicity is assessed using the MTT assay. Animal experiments are also performed to evaluate the effects of the new systems on living organisms.

The research has not only theoretical but also practical significance. Based on the results, prototypes of specific drug formulations are developed. In the future, these prototypes may undergo clinical trials and be implemented in medical practice. Thus, the project aims to offer new, effective, and safe approaches to treating eye diseases.

International scientific collaboration is also an important part of the project. KazNU scientists work jointly with leading foreign research centers, facilitating the exchange of experience, the introduction of new technologies, and the enhancement of research quality.

The social significance of the project is substantial. Eye diseases directly affect the quality of life, reduce work capacity, and place a heavy burden on healthcare systems. Therefore, the development of effective treatment methods is not only medically, but also economically important.

In conclusion, new drug delivery systems based on mucoadhesive polymers have the potential to make a significant breakthrough in ophthalmology. The research conducted at 91��ý Kazakh National University represents an important step in this direction. These scientific efforts may contribute in the future to preserving vision and improving the quality of life for millions of people.