Cenegermin for the treatment of dry eye disease

Dry eye disease (DED) is the most common ocular surface disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Due to its chronic nature, the management of DED still represents a challenge in the ophthalmic practice. Nerve growth factor (NGF), which is expressed along with its high-affinity TrkA receptor on the ocular surface complex, has been widely studied for the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy, and a novel recombinant human NGF (rhNGF) has recently received full market authorization in this setting. Since NGF has shown in both in vitro and in vivo studies to promote corneal healing, to enhance conjunctival epithelium differentiation and mucin secretion, and to stimulate tear film production and functionality, it could provide potential benefits also in patients with DED. A recent phase II clinical trial has assessed the role of rhNGF in DED patients, demonstrating significant improvements of DED signs and symptoms after 4 weeks of treatment. Further clinical evidence will be provided by the 2 ongoing phase III clinical trials. This review aims at comprehensively illustrating the rationale of use along with the efficacy and safety profile of topical NGF in patients with DED.