Disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions for ocular administration comprising
interleukin-17C (IL-17C) as
protein,
messenger RNA encoding IL-17C, or IL-17
C protein encapsulated in a
delivery vehicle. The compositions include delivery systems selected from lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), exosomes, hydrogels, and ocular inserts. In certain embodiments, the LNP formulation comprises an ionizable lipid,
cholesterol, a
phospholipid, and a PEG-lipid, with particles sized for ocular use; in other embodiments, exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells, corneal epithelial cells, or dendritic cells are loaded with IL-17
C protein or IL-17C mRNA. IL-17C mRNA embodiments may include modified nucleotides and 5' cap / UTR / poly(A) features. When evaluated in relevant models, the compositions reduce alpha-SMA and
collagen gel contraction, and decrease corneal
opacity and
neovascularization while enhancing epithelial
wound closure and nerve
metrics. Also disclosed is a sustained-release ocular device comprising the compositions, including hydrogel implants,
bandage contact lenses, or biodegradable ocular inserts.