Palladium nanozyme loaded metal-organic framework eyedrops alleviate oxidative stress for dry eye treatment.

Dry eye is a multifactorial ocular disorder caused by reduced tear secretion, poor tear quality, or excessive tear evaporation, which is a major public health issue worldwide. Oxidative stress on the ocular surface leading to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is considered a primary factor in the pathogenesis of dry eye. Herein, we designed a palladium (Pd) -loaded metal-organic framework (MOF) nanoparticle (PdM) as nanozyme eyedrops for dry eye treatment via efficient removal of various ROS. Experimental results confirmed that PdM nanozyme has multiple antioxidant enzyme activities and could scavenge a variety of free radicals. Furthermore, in vitro studies demonstrated its capacity to alleviate excess intracellular ROS, protect cytoskeletal structures and intercellular tight junctions. Treatment outcomes in animal models of dry eye confirmed its therapeutic efficacy in reducing corneal epithelial cell damage and inflammation, offering a novel approach for dry eye treatment.