Corneal re-innervation
using growth factors/ neuropeptides:
Even though these
therapeutic approaches are still part of experimental medicine, it is
clear that some of them have demonstrated that corneal wound healing and
re-innervation are possible. However, these trials (especially those on human
corneas) are not widespread and are only carried out in a
few laboratories of a few countries.
So far, clinical trials
have involved several hundred patients
(including more than 300 patients as far as NGF is concerned) suffering from
severe cases in which all other therapies had failed. These therapies are still
very expensive as the production is made for each specific case. The most
promising leads in terms of neuropeptides are the NGF (used in Italy by
Professors Aloe, Lambiase and al) or the synergistic effect of both Substance P
and IGF (used in Japan by Dr. Takashi Nagano), and
finally EGF.
Bellow are
the main substances (neuropeptides / growth factors) used or studied to promote corneal
wound healing but please note that this is not an exhaustive
list :
-
EGF (Epidermal
Growth Factor)
-
calcitonin gene-related peptide
-
galanin
-
fibronectine
-
Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)
-
Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF)
-
hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)
-
platelet-derived growth factor
Other
substances having an impact of corneal healing and regeneration:
-
autologous
serum and amniotic membrane (includes growth factors and other nutriments)
-
doxycycline
-
Vitamins: A, B12 (Cyanocobalamine),
B, B5, B6, PP, etc.
-
limbic stem cell graft
-
ombilical
cord blood
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Keratos 2005-2007
