Evaluation of Curcumin-Loaded Nanoliposomes for the Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of vision loss for people age 50 and over, is a disease characterized by the buildup of oxidative stress in the back of the eye. Current remedies are limited to intravitreal injections that only target the more severe â??wetâ?? form; the common â??dryâ?? form has no pharmaceutical solution. Curcumin, a natural antioxidant, has shown potential in combating inflammatory diseases like AMD; however, the molecule also demonstrates poor bioavailability. This study synthesizes, characterizes, and tests a liposomal complex encapsulating curcumin to improve its delivery to dry AMD-affected retinal cells via noninvasive methods. This project will study the complexâ??s potential to protect retinal pigment cells from damage and its ability to permeate the layers of the eye in order to prevent or delay the onset of dry AMD.