Neurotrophins, a science-driven excellence

Neurotrophic Keratitis is a degenerative disease of the cornea caused by trigeminal nerve damage, which if left untreated, can lead to loss of corneal sensitivity, corneal epithelium breakdown, and even corneal perforation. The interaction between corneal nerves, epithelial cells/keratocytes, and the lacrimal gland mediates corneal homeostasis which is vital for optimal corneal health. Despite increasing awareness of NK as a distinct clinical entity, its management continued to be challenged by the lack of approved treatments, that specifically targets the root pathogenesis of NK.

Our researchers were the first in the world to develop an innovative method to produce the first topical biologic for the treatment of NK.

Scientific evidence on the role of endogenous NGF in ocular surface homeostasis informed our focus on the applicability of neurotrophins as a treatment for neurotrophic keratitis.

In recognition of the ground-breaking research leading to the development of rhNGF, the product was authorized in some regions with an accelerated path (information on the authorized medicinal products, including reference to their safety profile, can be found in the local versions of Dompé’s website).