On the Horizon: Biologics and Nutrients for Neurotrophic Keratitis

Neurotrophic keratitis (NK), a potentially sight-threatening corneal disease, still does not have a specific treatment. The reduction or complete loss of corneal sensation, the most important factor in its pathogenesis, is one of the most important factors that complicate the treatment of corneal wound healing. In addition, the visual outcome may be adversely affected because of aggressive stromal fibrosis in severe NK cases. Basically, the current management of NK aims to accelerate wound healing and prevent the progression. However, new therapeutic agents, particularly developed depending on cell type-specific healing mechanisms are required for better visual outcomes. In recent years, several studies have started to use new promising areas of translational research, including gene therapy, stem cell therapy, miRNA, and bioengineering. Evidence has emerged that future treatment strategies for NK will be designed by the results of these studies. In this review, it is aimed to summarize scientific data of new treatment modalities for NK.