# Silk Fibroin Hydrogel Microneedles Loaded with Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor for Corneal Tissue Engineering

## TL;DR

This study introduces a new microneedle system for delivering nerve growth factor to repair corneal nerves and improve vision.

## Contribution

A novel hydrogel microneedle system for sustained delivery of rhNGF to the cornea is developed.

## Key findings

- The microneedles can penetrate the corneal epithelium and deliver rhNGF to the sub-epithelial layer.
- The crosslinking process enhances mechanical strength and enables sustained drug release.
- The system offers a promising therapeutic option for corneal tissue engineering.

## Abstract

Corneal nerves are essential for maintaining the functional integrity of the ocular surface. Damage to corneal nerves can lead to corneal issues and impaired vision. Current treatments for corneal nerve damage are inadequate, thus highlighting the need for innovative therapeutic approaches. In this study, we present a hydrogel microneedle system designed to facilitate the sustained release of recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF). The microneedle features a tip composed of glycidyl methacrylate modified silk fibroin (SFMA) loaded with rhNGF, photopolymerized for structural integrity, while its base is formed using silk fibroin (SF). This design allows the microneedles to penetrate the corneal epithelium and deliver rhNGF to the sub-epithelial layer. The crosslinking process not only provides the mechanical strength required for microneedle penetration but also enables sustained drug release. The proposed rhNGF-loaded SF hydrogel microneedle provides a platform for drug delivery, serving as a novel therapeutic option for corneal tissue engineering.