Lin Cong, Benxiang Qi, Shijiu Chen, Ruiling Liu, Suxia Li, Qingjun Zhou, Yihai Cao, Bi Ning Zhang, Lixin Xie
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Diabetic keratopathy (DK) is a common chronic metabolic disorder that causes ocular surface complications. Among various therapeutic approaches, local delivery of nerve growth factor (NGF) remains the most effective treatment for DK. However, achieving a sustained therapeutic effect with NGF and the frequent drug delivery burden remain challenging during clinical practice. Here, we developed a novel adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based NGF delivery system that achieved one-year-long-lasting effects by a single injection. We refined the corneal stromal injection technique, resulting in reduced corneal edema and improved AAV distribution homogeneity. AAV serotype AAV.rh10 exhibited high tropism and specificity to corneal nerves. A dose of 2×109 vector genomes (vg) was determined to achieve efficient Ngf gene expression without inducing corneal immune responses. Moreover, NGF protein was highly expressed in trigeminal ganglion (TG) through a retrograde transport mechanism, indicating the capacity for repairing corneal nerve damage both at the root and corneal nerve endings. In a mouse DK model, a single injection of AAV-Ngf into the corneal stroma led to marked corneal nerve regeneration for over 5 months. Together, we provide a novel therapeutic paradigm for long-term effective treatment of DK and this therapeutic approach is superior to current DK therapies.
期刊介绍:
Diabetes is a scientific journal that publishes original research exploring the physiological and pathophysiological aspects of diabetes mellitus. We encourage submissions of manuscripts pertaining to laboratory, animal, or human research, covering a wide range of topics. Our primary focus is on investigative reports investigating various aspects such as the development and progression of diabetes, along with its associated complications. We also welcome studies delving into normal and pathological pancreatic islet function and intermediary metabolism, as well as exploring the mechanisms of drug and hormone action from a pharmacological perspective. Additionally, we encourage submissions that delve into the biochemical and molecular aspects of both normal and abnormal biological processes.
However, it is important to note that we do not publish studies relating to diabetes education or the application of accepted therapeutic and diagnostic approaches to patients with diabetes mellitus. Our aim is to provide a platform for research that contributes to advancing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and processes of diabetes.