Glaucoma Associates of Texas was invited by the Chairman of Ophthalmology at Stanford University (Jeffery Goldberg, MD, PhD) to participate in a groundbreaking study that may help regenerate nerve tissue and improve vision in our glaucoma patients.
This is a study in which a nerve growth factor (called ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF)) will be used to regenerate nerve tissue damaged from glaucoma. 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).
In various animal models, the use of this growth factor has been shown to protect the retinal nerve cells from damage in the setting of trauma, retinal diseases and glaucoma. This nerve growth factor has also been shown to regenerate optic nerve tissue.
To date, nearly 300 human subjects in the U.S. have been implanted with this drug delivery device for the treatment of macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa without any significant or concerning side effects related to the device or the growth factor.
A phase I trial, based at Stanford University, was completed in 11 glaucoma patients in whom this device was implanted. To date, no serious adverse events related to the implant or drug were reported. The initial results in this study suggested improvement of visual field, contrast sensitivity and increased nerve thickness.
Glaucoma Associates of Texas is one of a few centers in the United States to participate in this study. A grant from Cure Glaucoma is completely funding this research study in Dallas; 4 patients have already been enrolled and 2 more are awaiting treatment. Our hope is that this study may unlock the key to regenerating nerve tissue in our glaucoma patients, and further our mission to help cure glaucoma.
