DONATE NOWSummary of the Nerve Growth Factor Study in Glaucoma
The Chairman of Ophthalmology at Stanford University, Jeffery Goldberg, MD, PhD, invited Glaucoma Associates of Texas (GAT) to join a groundbreaking study aimed at regenerating nerve tissue and improving vision in glaucoma patients.
The study uses a nerve growth factor called ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) to repair nerve tissue damaged by glaucoma. Researchers aim to protect and improve the function of sick – but not dead – retinal ganglion cells damaged by the disease. This study will involve an implant, which is a novel, cell-based drug delivery system that delivers human CNTF inside the eye, after implantation via a microscopic incision in the wall of the eye (sclera).
Animal Models
In animal models, researchers show this growth factor protects retinal nerve cells from trauma, retinal diseases, and glaucoma. Studies also show that it can regenerate optic nerve tissue.
So far, doctors have implanted this drug delivery device in nearly 300 U.S. patients to treat macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. Consequently, the device and growth factor have caused no significant or concerning side effects.
Researchers completed a Phase I trial at Stanford University in 11 glaucoma patients who received this implant. So far, the implant and drug have caused no serious adverse events. Moreover, the initial results suggest improvements in visual field, contrast sensitivity, and nerve thickness.
Glaucoma Associates of Texas is one of three U.S. centers participating in this study, along with Stanford and Columbia. A grant from Cure Glaucoma fully funds this research study in Dallas.
Over the past two years, seven patients have received the implant at GAT, and three more are awaiting treatment. In total, over 50 glaucoma patients have received the implant, and the one-year results look very promising. Initial data analysis shows a trend toward improved visual function and thicker nerve fiber layers in the treatment group. We hope this study helps regenerate nerve tissue in glaucoma patients and advances our mission to cure glaucoma.
Davinder S. Grover, MD, MPH
Attending Surgeon and Clinician
Director of Clinical Research
Glaucoma Associates of Texas
Dallas, Texas, USA