New therapeutic approaches and challenges for the treatment of dry eye disease

Abstract

AbstractInnumerable individuals suffer from tear film dysfunctions, which are collectively diagnosed as dry eye disease (DED). In the United States alone DED afflicts tens of millions of people, especially women, and is one of the most frequent causes of patient visits to eye care practitioners. DED is characterized by a vicious cycle of tear film hyperosmolarity and instability and ocular surface stress, leading to increased friction, inflammation and damage to the eye. DED is caused primarily by meibomian gland dysfunction, and is associated with significant pain, decreased vitality and poorer general health. Because of diminished worker productivity, the burden of DED for the United States is estimated to be over $55.4 billion. There is no safe and effective global treatment for DED, and its therapy remains a profound unmet need throughout the world. A virtual kaleidoscope of new therapeutic approaches have been proposed to treat the mucin, aqueous and/or lipid tear film deficiencies, as well as the ocular surface damage, associated with DED. My presentation will highlight these approaches, and also address the significant clinical endpoint challenges that serve as barriers to the successful development of potential treatments for DED. Commercial interest