Spectral transmittance of rat lenses treated with naringin-loaded nanoparticles

Oxidative stress is one of the main factors in the cataract development. Various antioxidants are currently being investigated to prevent cataract formation. The present study evaluated the effect of Naringin-loaded nanoparticles (NLN) in preventing cataracts using an ex vivo model of cataractogenesis. The NLN was prepared using modified single-step nanoprecipitation technique; particle size, surface charge, and polydispersity index by dynamic light scattering, encapsulation efficiency were determined spectrophotometrically. NLN morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Lenses of Wistar rats were grown in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's Medium alone or with the addition of 100µM sodium selenite and NLN (Naringin 100µM). Photographs of lenses were taken before and after culture. The lens opacity (transmittance) was determined using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The NLN had an average diameter of 208.30  19.94 nm, polydispersity index of 0.27  0.08, zeta potential of -44.50  7.78 mV, and EE% of 72.66  3.18 %. The photographs and transmittance spectra of lenses incubated with NLN showed attenuation in the progression of opacity induced by sodium selenite. The treatment with NLN delayed the opacification of lenses in an ex vivo model of cataractogenesis, suggesting a therapeutic option to prevent cataract formation.