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Feng C, Chu W, Lin P, Xu H, Chen X. Switching to the aflibercept (3 mg) therapy for treatment-resistant wet age-related macular degeneration: 1-year outcomes. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37839. [PMID: 38640269 PMCID: PMC11029982 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate 1-year outcomes following switching to the aflibercept (3 mg) therapy for treatment-resistant wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD). In this prospective, open-label, non-controlled clinical trial, 18 patients with wAMD who had multiple recurrences or persistent exudation despite intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents (except aflibercept) received a 3-mg intravitreal aflibercept injection every 4 weeks. Each patient received 3 to 8 injections. The central retinal thickness and fibrovascular pigment epithelial detachment height decreased significantly at 1 month after initiation of the aflibercept injection, and the values were 146 and 163.2 μm, respectively, at the final visit. The morphological improvement was sustained. The intraretinal and subretinal fluid was completely absorbed at the end of the follow-up. The logMAR vision increased from baseline 0.68 to 0.59 (P < .05). No ocular or systemic adverse events occurred. The intravitreal injection of 3-mg aflibercept seems to be feasible in the treatment of wAMD unresponsive to other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Feng
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjuan Chu
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ping Lin
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Haifeng Xu
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiuli Chen
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
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Szigiato A, Mohan N, Talcott KE, Mammo DA, Babiuch AS, Kaiser PK, Ehlers JP, Rachitskaya A, Yuan A, Srivastava SK, Sharma S. Short-Term Outcomes of Faricimab in Patients with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration on Prior Anti-VEGF Therapy. Ophthalmol Retina 2024; 8:10-17. [PMID: 37673396 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2023.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A subset of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) experience treatment burden and suboptimal response with anti-VEGF therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of switching to a novel, bispecific agent, faricimab, in patients with nAMD currently treated with anti-VEGF. DESIGN Retrospective, noncomparative cohort study. SUBJECTS Patients with nAMD previously treated with anti-VEGF and switched to intravitreal faricimab injection (IFI) at the Cleveland Clinic's Cole Eye Institute. METHODS Switching and administration schedule of IFI was at the discretion of the clinician. Visual acuity (VA) and macular OCT parameters, including central subfield thickness (CST), maximum pigment epithelial detachment (PED) height, and presence of subretinal (SRF) or intraretinal fluid (IRF), were assessed at baseline (day of first IFI) and after each IFI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Central subfield thickness and presence of IRF or SRF after ≥ 3 IFIs. RESULTS One hundred twenty-six eyes of 106 patients were included in the analysis with a mean follow-up time of 24.3 ± 5.2 weeks. Before switching to IFI, patients received a mean of either aflibercept (20.0 ± 8.4, mean ± standard deviation), bevacizumab (7 ± 8.9), ranibizumab (1.9 ± 8.5), or brolucizumab (0.3 ± 1.6) injections. The most common agent used before switching to IFI was aflibercept (n = 110, 87%), and the mean treatment interval with any anti-VEGF was 5.6 ± 1.6 weeks before switching. Central subfield thickness was reduced from baseline after the first IFI (266.8 ± 64.7 vs. 249.8 ± 58.6 μm, P = 0.02) and persisted over the 3 IFIs (P = 0.01). Pigment epithelial detachment height was reduced after the third IFI (249.6 ± 179.0 vs. 206.9 ± 130.0 μm, P = 0.01). The mean VA (62.9 vs. 62.7 approximate ETDRS letters, P = 0.42) and interval between injections (6.3 vs. 5.7 weeks, P = 0.16) was similar after the third IFI compared with baseline. Eleven (8.7%) eyes were switched back to their previous anti-VEGF, including 2 (1.6%) eyes from 1 patient with intraocular inflammation requiring cessation of IFI. There were no other adverse events from switching. CONCLUSIONS Switching to faricimab resulted in a reduction in mean CST (-11.6 μm, P = 0.01) and PED height (-44.2 μm, P = 0.01) after 3 injections, with stable VA and at a similar treatment interval to prior anti-VEGF therapy. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nitesh Mohan
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Danny A Mammo
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Amy S Babiuch
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | | | | | - Alex Yuan
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Sumit Sharma
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
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Blasiak J, Chojnacki J, Szczepanska J, Fila M, Chojnacki C, Kaarniranta K, Pawlowska E. Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate, an Active Green Tea Component to Support Anti-VEGFA Therapy in Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Nutrients 2023; 15:3358. [PMID: 37571296 PMCID: PMC10421466 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a largely incurable disease and an emerging problem in aging societies. It occurs in two forms, dry and wet (exudative, neovascular), which may cause legal blindness and sight loss. Currently, there is not any effective treatment for dry AMD. Meanwhile, repeated intravitreal injections with antibodies effective against vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) slow down wet AMD progression but are not free from complications. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is an active compound of green tea, which exerts many beneficial effects in the retinal pigment epithelium and the neural retina. It has been reported to downregulate the VEGFA gene by suppressing its activators. The inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinases 1 and 3 (MAPK1 and MAPK3) may lie behind the antiangiogenic action of EGCG mediated by VEGFA. EGCG exerts protective effects against UV-induced damage to retinal cells and improves dysfunctional autophagy. EGCG may also interact with the mechanistic target rapamycin (MTOR) and unc-51-like autophagy activating kinase (ULK1) to modulate the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis. Several other studies report beneficial effects of EGCG on the retina that may be related to wet AMD. Therefore, controlled clinical trials are needed to verify whether diet supplementation with EGCG or green tea consumption may improve the results of anti-VEGFA therapy in wet AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz Blasiak
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Jan Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland; (J.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Joanna Szczepanska
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-217 Lodz, Poland; (J.S.); (E.P.)
| | - Michal Fila
- Department of Developmental Neurology and Epileptology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Cezary Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland; (J.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Elzbieta Pawlowska
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-217 Lodz, Poland; (J.S.); (E.P.)
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Rusciano D, Bagnoli P. Pharmacotherapy and Nutritional Supplements for Neovascular Eye Diseases. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1334. [PMID: 37512145 PMCID: PMC10383223 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59071334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the recent findings about the treatment of neovascular retinal diseases. The use of conventional drugs and nutraceuticals endowed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support conventional therapies will be considered, with the final aim of achieving risk reduction (prevention) and outcome improvement (cooperation between treatments) of such sight-threatening proliferative retinopathies. For this purpose, we consider a medicinal product one that contains well-defined compound(s) with proven pharmacological and therapeutic effects, usually given for the treatment of full-blown diseases. Rarely are prescription drugs given for preventive purposes. A dietary supplement refers to a compound (often an extract or a mixture) used in the prevention or co-adjuvant treatment of a given pathology. However, it must be kept in mind that drug-supplement interactions may exist and might affect the efficacy of certain drug treatments. Moreover, the distinction between medicinal products and dietary supplements is not always straightforward. For instance, melatonin is formulated as a medicinal product for the treatment of sleep and behavioral problems; at low doses (usually below 1 mg), it is considered a nutraceutical, while at higher doses, it is sold as a psychotropic drug. Despite their lower status with respect to drugs, increasing evidence supports the notion of the beneficial effects of dietary supplements on proliferative retinopathies, a major cause of vision loss in the elderly. Therefore, we believe that, on a patient-by-patient basis, the administration of nutraceuticals, either alone or in association, could benefit many patients, delaying the progression of their disease and likely improving the efficacy of pharmaceutical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56123 Pisa, Italy
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Veritti D, Sarao V, Di Bin F, Lanzetta P. Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Rationale for Extending VEGF Inhibition Increasing Intravitreal Aflibercept Dose. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051416. [PMID: 37242658 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of various dosages and treatment regimens on intravitreal aflibercept concentrations and the proportion of free vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to total VEGF were evaluated using a drug and disease assessment model. The 8 mg dosage received specific attention. METHODS A time-dependent mathematical model was developed and implemented using Wolfram Mathematica software v12.0. This model was used to obtain drug concentrations after multiple doses of different aflibercept dosages (0.5 mg, 2 mg, and 8 mg) and to estimate the time-dependent intravitreal free VEGF percentage levels. A series of fixed treatment regimens were modeled and evaluated as potential clinical applications. RESULTS The simulation results indicate that 8 mg aflibercept administered at a range of treatment intervals (between 12 and 15 weeks) would allow for the proportion of free VEGF to remain below threshold levels. Our analysis indicates that these protocols maintain the ratio of free VEGF below 0.001%. CONCLUSIONS Fixed q12-q15 (every 12-15 weeks) 8 mg aflibercept regimens can produce adequate intravitreal VEGF inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Veritti
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Valentina Sarao
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Istituto Europeo di Microchirurgia Oculare (IEMO), 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Bin
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Paolo Lanzetta
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Istituto Europeo di Microchirurgia Oculare (IEMO), 33100 Udine, Italy
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Riemer T, Berndt D, Böker A, Lehmann J, Schrifl U, Rau S, Rübsam A, Joussen AM, Zeitz O. Treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration: insights into drug-switch real-world from the Berlin Macular Registry. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2023; 261:1681-1690. [PMID: 36633668 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-022-05952-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and aflibercept are commonly used to treat neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). The results of various interventional, mostly randomized head-to-head studies, indicate statistical non-inferiority of these three drugs. The results of these studies are often interpreted as the three drugs being freely interchangeable, resulting in some health systems to pressure ophthalmologists to preferentially use the less expensive bevacizumab. This study analyzes switching from aflibercept or ranibizumab to bevacizumab and back under real-world conditions in order to investigate the assumption of interchangeability of the drugs. METHODS Treatment data of IVT patients with diagnosed nAMD were extracted from the clinical Berlin Macular Registry database. Patients who underwent a drug switch from aflibercept or ranibizumab to bevacizumab were subject of this study. Statistical comparisons were pre-planned for best corrected visual acuity, central retinal thickness, macular volume, and length of injection interval. Additional endpoints were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS Mean visual acuity decreased from 0.57 ± 0.05 under aflibercept/ranibizumab to 0.68 ± 0.06 logMAR after the switch (P = 0.001; N = 63). CRT increased from 308 ± 11 µm to 336 ± 16 µm (P = 0.011; N = 63). About half of the subjects were switched back: visual acuity increased from 0.69 ± 0.08 logMAR to 0.58 ± 0.09 logMAR (N = 26). CRT decreased from 396 ± 28 to 337 ± 20 µm (N = 28). CONCLUSION The data provides real-world evidence that there is loss of visual acuity and an increase in retinal edema after switching to bevacizumab. Thus, the assumption of free interchangeability cannot be confirmed in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommes Riemer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dominique Berndt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Böker
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josefine Lehmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Schrifl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Saskia Rau
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Rübsam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Antonia M Joussen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Zeitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
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Hébert M, You E, Gravel JF, Dirani A, Bourgault S. Posterior scleritis after biweekly aflibercept intravitreal injections. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2022; 28:101696. [PMID: 36118279 PMCID: PMC9474326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2022.101696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Serge Bourgault
- Corresponding author. Département d'ophtalmologie et d'oto-rhino-Laryngologie–Chirurgie Cervico-Faciale, Université Laval, Centre Universitaire d'ophtalmologie, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, CHU de Québec, 1050 Ch Ste-Foy, Québec, G1S 4L8, Canada.
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Ataş M, Ozsaygılı C, Bayram N, Unal S. Retrospective analysis of the efficacy of early switching from bevacizumab to aflibercept or ranibizumab in diabetic macular edema. Eur J Ophthalmol 2022; 33:11206721221137164. [PMID: 36330651 DOI: 10.1177/11206721221137164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to compare the anatomical and functional gains of switching to ranibizumab or aflibercept in eyes with treatment-naive diabetic macular edema (DME) which has an inadequate response to three consecutive bevacizumab injections. METHODS This observational, retrospective, comparative study presented 12-month results of 80 patients with DME. One eye of each patient was enrolled, and bevacizumab was switched as aflibercept (40 eyes) or ranibizumab (40 eyes). DME was diagnosed based on a fundoscopic examination, fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), central macular thickness (CMT), and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). RESULTS Forty-one patients (51.2%) were male, and 39 (48.8%) were female, with a mean age of 62.3 ± 6.7 years. At the end of the study, the mean number of intravitreal injections was 8.1 ± 1.8 in the aflibercept group, whereas 8.9 ± 1.4 in the ranibizumab (p = 0.091). The mean CMT decreased from 449.2 ± 69.3 µm to 311.0 ± 48.9 µm in the aflibercept group, and from 444.9 ± 109.2 µm to 316.3 ± 54.5 µm in the ranibizumab group (for both, p < 0.0001). The mean BVCA increased from 49.2 ± 11.1 ETDRS letters to 62.5 ± 9.9 in the aflibercept group (p < 0.0001) and from 49.9 ± 12.0 ETDRS letters to 61.1 ± 9.1 in the ranibizumab group (p < 0.0001). Macular laser treatment was required in 17.5% of the aflibercept group and 22.5% of the ranibizumab group (p = 0.781). CONCLUSION Significant improvement was observed with ranibizumab and aflibercept treatments in initial bevacizumab-resistant DME. Early switching therapy may contribute to better visual and anatomical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ataş
- Department of Ophthalmology, 147026Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Science, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Cemal Ozsaygılı
- Department of Ophthalmology, 147026Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Science, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Nurettin Bayram
- Department of Ophthalmology, 147026Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Science, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sefa Unal
- Department of Ophthalmology, 147026Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Science, Kayseri, Turkey
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Peptide Lv augments intermediate-conductance calcium-dependent potassium channels (KCa3.1) in endothelial cells to promote angiogenesis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276744. [PMID: 36282858 PMCID: PMC9595550 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide Lv is a small endogenous secretory peptide that is expressed in various tissues and conserved across different species. Patients with diabetic retinopathy, an ocular disease with pathological angiogenesis, have upregulated peptide Lv in their retinas. The pro-angiogenic activity of peptide Lv is in part through promoting vascular endothelial cell (EC) proliferation, migration, and sprouting, but its molecular mechanism is not completely understood. This study aimed to decipher how peptide Lv promotes EC-dependent angiogenesis by using patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings, Western immunoblotting, quantitative PCR, and cell proliferation assays in cultured ECs. Endothelial cells treated with peptide Lv became significantly hyperpolarized, an essential step for EC activation. Treatment with peptide Lv augmented the expression and current densities of the intermediate-conductance calcium-dependent potassium (KCa3.1) channels that contribute to EC hyperpolarization but did not augment other potassium channels. Blocking KCa3.1 attenuated peptide Lv-elicited EC proliferation. These results indicate that peptide Lv-stimulated increases of functional KCa3.1 in ECs contributes to EC activation and EC-dependent angiogenesis.
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Uwimana A, Ma C, Chen S, Ma X. Metformin therapy as a strategy to compensate anti-VEGF resistance in patients with diabetic macular edema. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31266. [PMID: 36281139 PMCID: PMC9592524 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the complication of diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of vision loss among diabetic patients. Metformin is the main antidiabetic treatment. It is preferable for its great anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is the preferable treatment for DME despite its lack of convincing results in some patients. To assess whether the combination of metformin and anti-VEGF drugs may decrease the risk of anti-VEGF resistance among DME patients. We included DME patients with a central retinal thickness (CRT) ≥ 250 μm who consecutively underwent at least 3 anti-VEGF therapies from January 1, 2020, to December 30, 2021. Anti-VEGF resistance was defined as persistent macular edema with decreased CRT ≤ 25% after 3 anti-VEGF injections. 109 patients were considered for this research, of whom 65 (59.6%) were resistant to anti-VEGF therapy. The mean CRT of the non-metformin group decreased from 344.88 ± 129.48 to 318.29 ± 123.23 (20.85%) and from 415.64 ± 144.26 to 277.11 ± 99.25 (31.51%) (P = .031) in the metformin group. Moreover, the metformin group had fewer resistant patients than the non-metformin, 24 (45.3%) versus 41 (73.2%). Furthermore, a considerable gain in visual acuity was observed in both groups, with a BCVA gain of 40.41% in the metformin group and 39.9% in the non-metformin group. Metformin may be combined with an anti-VEGF drug to minimize the risk of anti-VEGF resistance among DME patients. Moreover, it can serve to design effective therapeutic deliveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Uwimana
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Cong Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shengyao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiang Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Ma, Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 222 Zhongshan Road, Xigang District, Dalian 116044, China (e-mail: )
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Uludag G, Hassan M, Matsumiya W, Pham BH, Chea S, Trong Tuong Than N, Doan HL, Akhavanrezayat A, Halim MS, Do DV, Nguyen QD. Efficacy and safety of intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy in diabetic retinopathy: what we have learned and what should we learn further? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:1275-1291. [PMID: 35818801 PMCID: PMC10863998 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2100694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most frequent microvascular complications of diabetes that can lead to blindness. Laser treatment has been the gold standard treatment for diabetic macular edema (DME) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) for many years. Recently, the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been established in the pathogenesis of DR, and the use of intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy has gained popularity for the management of DR. AREAS COVERED This review includes a brief overview of the efficacy and safety of currently available (bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and aflibercept) and potential future (brolucizumab, faricimab, and KSI-301) anti-VEGF agents in patients with DR based mainly on publicly available data from phase 1, 2 and 3 clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION Clinical trials investigating the efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and aflibercept injections demonstrated favorable functional and anatomical outcomes in patients with DME. Moreover, the use of these anti-VEGF agents showed a significant improvement in the severity of DR. Recent clinical research for future anti-VEGF molecules aims to provide higher target-protein binding affinity and prolonged therapeutic effect. Brolucizumab, faricimab, and KSI-301 are three novel anti-VEGF agents that demonstrate promising data for the management of DME and potentially DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunay Uludag
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Muhammad Hassan
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Wataru Matsumiya
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Brandon Huy Pham
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sophaktra Chea
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | - Hien Luong Doan
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | - Muhammad Sohail Halim
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Ocular Imaging Research and Reading Center, Sunnyvale, CA, USA
| | - Diana V Do
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Kniggendorf V, Souza MEP, Russo T, de Lima MA, Grupenmacher AT, Regatieri CV, Dreyfuss JL. New anti-angiogenic compound based on chemically modified heparin. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 260:3847-3855. [PMID: 36097187 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-022-05828-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to measure the anti-angiogenic effect of N-desulfated Re-N-acetylated, a chemically modified heparin (mHep). METHODS In vitro assays (cell tube formation, viability, proliferation, and migration) with endothelial cells were performed after 24 h of treatment with mHep at 10, 100, and 1000 ng/mL or saline. In vivo tests were performed after laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in rats, followed by an intravitreal injection (5 µL) of mHep (10, 100, 1000 ng/mL) or balanced salt solution. Immunofluorescence analysis of the CNV was performed after 14 days. RESULTS mHep produced a statistically significant reduction in cell proliferation, tube formation, and migration, without cell viability changes when compared to saline. Mean measures of CNV area were 54.84 × 106 pixels/mm (± 12.41 × 106), 58.77 × 106 pixels/mm (± 17.52 × 106), and 59.42 × 106 pixels/mm (± 17.33 × 106) in groups 100, 1000, and 10,000 ng/mL, respectively, while in the control group, mean area was 72.23 × 106 (± 16.51 × 106). The P value was 0.0065. Perimeter analysis also demonstrated statistical significance (P = 0.0235) with the mean measure of 93.55 × 104, 94.23 × 104, and 102 × 104 in the 100 ng/mL, 1000 ng/mL, and control groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that mHep N-DRN is a potent anti-angiogenic, anti-proliferative, and anti-migratory compound with negligible anticoagulant or hemorrhagic action and no cytotoxicity for retina cells. This compound may serve as a candidate for treating choroidal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius Kniggendorf
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, 1o andar, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil.
| | - Maria Eduarda Perrud Souza
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology Division, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thatiane Russo
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology Division, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Andrade de Lima
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, 1o andar, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil.,Molecular & Structural Biosciences, School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Staffordshire, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Alex Treiger Grupenmacher
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, 1o andar, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Caio V Regatieri
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, 1o andar, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology Division, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana L Dreyfuss
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology Division, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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13
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Navneet S, Rohrer B. Elastin turnover in ocular diseases: A special focus on age-related macular degeneration. Exp Eye Res 2022; 222:109164. [PMID: 35798060 PMCID: PMC9795808 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) and its turnover play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Elastin, a critical protein component of the ECM, not only provides structural and mechanical support to tissues, but also mediates several intracellular and extracellular molecular signaling pathways. Abnormal turnover of elastin has pathological implications. In the eye elastin is a major structural component of Bruch's membrane (BrM), a critical ECM structure separating the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) from the choriocapillaris. Reduced integrity of macular BrM elastin, increased serum levels of elastin-derived peptides (EDPs), and elevated elastin antibodies have been reported in AMD. Existing reports suggest that elastases, the elastin-degrading enzymes secreted by RPE, infiltrating macrophages or neutrophils could be involved in BrM elastin degradation, thus contributing to AMD pathogenesis. EDPs derived from elastin degradation can increase inflammatory and angiogenic responses in tissues, and the elastin antibodies are shown to play roles in immune cell activity and complement activation. This review summarizes our current understanding on the elastases/elastin fragments-mediated mechanisms of AMD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Navneet
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Bärbel Rohrer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Division of Research, Charleston, SC, USA.
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14
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Genetic Variants of Complement Factor H Y402H (rs1061170), C2 R102G (rs2230199), and C3 E318D (rs9332739) and Response to Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Treatment in Patients with Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58050658. [PMID: 35630075 PMCID: PMC9145696 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58050658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To assess the association between the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding complement factors CFH, C2, and C3 (Y402H rs1061170, R102G rs2230199, and E318D rs9332739, respectively) and response to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Materials and Methods: The study included 111 patients with exudative AMD treated with intravitreal bevacizumab or ranibizumab injections. Response to therapy was assessed on the basis of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) measured every 4 weeks for 12 months. The control group included 58 individuals without AMD. The SNPs were genotyped by a real-time polymerase chain reaction in genomic DNA isolated from peripheral blood samples. Results: The CC genotype in SNP rs1061170 of the CFH gene was more frequent in patients with AMD than in controls (p = 0.0058). It was also more common among the 28 patients (25.2%) with poor response to therapy compared with good responders (p = 0.0002). Poor responders, especially those without this genotype, benefited from switching to another anti-VEGF drug. At the last follow-up assessment, carriers of this genotype had significantly worse BCVA (p = 0.0350) and greater CRT (p = 0.0168) than noncarriers. TT genotype carriers showed improved BCVA (p = 0.0467) and reduced CRT compared with CC and CT genotype carriers (p = 0.0194). No associations with AMD or anti-VEGF therapy outcomes for SNP rs9332739 in the C2 gene and SNP rs2230199 in the C3 gene were found. Conclusions: The CC genotype for SNP rs1061170 in the CFH gene was associated with AMD in our population. Additionally, it promoted a poor response to anti-VEGF therapy. On the other hand, TT genotype carriers showed better functional and anatomical response to anti-VEGF therapy at 12 months than carriers of the other genotypes for this SNP.
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15
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Madjedi K, Pereira A, Ballios BG, Arjmand P, Kertes PJ, Brent M, Yan P. Switching between anti-VEGF agents in the management of refractory diabetic macular edema: A systematic review. Surv Ophthalmol 2022; 67:1364-1372. [PMID: 35452685 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Refractory diabetic macular edema (DME) to monthly intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monotherapy has a prevalence of approximately 40% in landmark clinical trials. Options for these patients include use of intravitreal steroids, focal laser, or switching to an alternative anti-VEGF agent. We summarize the key conclusions from studies analyzing the efficacy of switching anti-VEGF agents for refractory DME. Twenty-four studies were included in analysis. The most common definitions of refractory in the included studies were a central retinal thickness (CRT) greater than 300μm or a reduction in CRT less than 10% after at least 3-6 prior anti-VEGF injections. Switching to intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) from either intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) or bevacizumab (IVB) is associated with moderate to significant improvement in central subfield thickness and may be an appropriate choice for patients with refractory DME. The improvement in retinal thickness and edema is typically seen after the first 3 injections of IVA post-switch. Switching to IVR has also demonstrated improvement in CRT at 3-6 months post-switch in large sample population studies. Future studies are required to elucidate the ideal time point for a switch in anti-VEGF agent or which patients would benefit from this change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kian Madjedi
- Section of Ophthalmology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Austin Pereira
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian G Ballios
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Parnian Arjmand
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter J Kertes
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Brent
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peng Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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16
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Anatomical and functional responses to single brolucizumab injection in neovascular age-related macular degeneration patients not responding to antiangiogenics: a case series. Drug Target Insights 2022; 16:6-11. [PMID: 35360670 PMCID: PMC8961812 DOI: 10.33393/dti.2022.2343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs. However, resistance to anti-VEGF therapy is observed in some patients. Brolucizumab is a new-generation anti-VEGF drug for the treatment of nAMD, with proven efficacy in fluid resolution and long-lasting effects. Methods: We report here a case series of nAMD patients not responding to previous anti-VEGF therapy showing anatomical and functional response to a single intravitreal injection of brolucizumab. Results: Nine patients with nAMD, undergoing treatment with anti-VEGF therapy (aflibercept, bevacizumab, or ranibizumab) but with either fluid persistence or frequent fluid recurrences in retinal compartments, were switched to intravitreal brolucizumab and examined 4 weeks postinjection. No signs of active disease were observed in all but one patient, with complete retinal fluid resolution in seven patients. Central macular thickness and visual acuity significantly improved, and changes were sustained for up to 12 weeks in a subset of three patients. No adverse reactions were observed. Conclusions: This new anti-VEGF drug showed great efficacy since the first week from the injection with a significative reduction of subretinal fluid and rapid improvement of visual acuity. In conclusion, brolucizumab administered intravitreally appears to be an effective treatment in nAMD patients, leading to both early anatomical and functional improvements.
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17
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Coronado BNL, da Cunha FBS, de Oliveira RM, Nóbrega ODT, Ricart CAO, Fontes W, de Sousa MV, de Ávila MP, Martins AMA. Novel Possible Protein Targets in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Pilot Study Experiment. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:692272. [PMID: 35155457 PMCID: PMC8828634 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.692272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is among the world's leading causes of blindness. In its neovascular form (nAMD), around 25% of patients present further anatomical and visual deterioration due to persistence of neovascular activity, despite gold-standard treatment protocols using intravitreal anti-VEGF medications. Thus, to comprehend, the molecular pathways that drive choroidal neoangiogenesis, associated with the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), are important steps to elucidate the mechanistic events underneath the disease development. This is a pilot study, a prospective, translational experiment, in a real-life context aiming to evaluate the protein profiles of the aqueous humor of 15 patients divided into three groups: group 1, composed of patients with nAMD, who demonstrated a good response to anti-VEGF intravitreal injections during follow-up (good responsive); group 2, composed of patients with anti-VEGF-resistant nAMD, who demonstrated choroidal neovascularization activity during follow-up (poor/non-responsive); and group 3, composed of control patients without systemic diseases or signs of retinopathy. For proteomic characterization of the groups, mass spectrometry (label-free LC-MS/MS) was used. A total of 2,336 proteins were identified, of which 185 were distinctly regulated and allowed the differentiation of the clinical conditions analyzed. Among those, 39 proteins, including some novel ones, were analyzed as potential disease effectors through their pathophysiological implications in lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, complement system, inflammatory pathways, and angiogenesis. So, this study suggests the participation of other promising biomarkers in neovascular AMD, in addition to the known VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Nobre Lins Coronado
- Department of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, CESMAC University Center, Maceio, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Bruno Nobre Lins Coronado
| | | | - Raphaela Menezes de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos André Ornelas Ricart
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Wagner Fontes
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Valle de Sousa
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | | | - Aline Maria Araújo Martins
- Department of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Department of Health Science, School of Medicine, University Center of Brasilia (UniCEUB), Brasilia, Brazil
- Aline Maria Araújo Martins
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18
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Svensson CK. Attenuation of Response to Repeated Drug Administration: A Proposal for Differentiating Tachyphylaxis and Tolerance. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2022; 381:22-32. [PMID: 35042786 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.121.000978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Attenuation of drug response with repeated administration is referred to as tachyphylaxis or tolerance, though the distinction between these two is obscured through both their usage in the literature and imprecise definitions in common pharmacology texts. In this perspective, I propose that these terms be distinguished by the mechanisms underlying the attenuation of drug response. Specifically, tachyphylaxis should be reserved for attenuation that occurs in response to cellular depletion, while tolerance be used to describe those that arise from cellular adaptations. A framework for understanding behavioral tolerance, physiological tolerance, and dispositional tolerance as distinct phenomena is also discussed. Using this framework, a classification of drugs exhibiting attenuation of drug response with repeated administration is presented. Significance Statement Distinction between tachyphylaxis and tolerance is unclear in the literature. Nonetheless, a mechanistic basis for distinguishing these important terms has practical implications for managing or preventing attenuation of drug response with repeated administration.
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19
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Ertan E, Efe N, Sabaner MC, Dogan M. Results of the switch from intravitreal ranibizumab to intravitreal aflibercept therapy in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration: A 42-month retrospective real-world study. Niger J Clin Pract 2021; 24:1824-1827. [PMID: 34889791 DOI: 10.4103/njcp.njcp_696_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Aim The study aimed to evaluate the functional and anatomical results of patients treated with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (n-AMD) but switched to intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) treatment due to insufficient response treatment. Material and Methods At least six doses of n-AMD were administered IVR to 33 patients who were switched to IVA treatment due to insufficient response and were included in the study. The patients were evaluated at the beginning of the IVR treatment during the transition to IVA treatment and at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, and 42 months of IVA treatment. Results After an average of 10.1 ± 5.04 IVR injections, the patients who were accepted as insufficient response were treated with IVA. The central macular thickness of the patients was evaluated at the beginning of the treatment, immediately before, and after the initiation of IVA treatment at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 months. It was as follows: 325.21 ± 123.04, 351.42 ± 126.09, 284.81 ± 112.65, 296.68 ± 89.17, 282.61 ± 81.58, 292.27 ± 109, 92,269.75 ± 97.14, 267.50 ± 87.56, and 266.82 ± 88.35 μm. According to the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), it was initially 0.89 ± 0.65; 1.08 ± 0.53 during the transition to IVA; 0.91 ± 0.46 6 months after IVA; 12th 1.14 ± 0.59; 0.94 ± 0.55 at 18th; 1.07 ± 0.49 at 24th; 1.15 ± 0.57 at 30th; 1.06 ± 0.45 at 36th, and 1.13 ± 0.46 LogMAR ( Logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution) at the 42nd month. Conclusion In conclusion, in n-AMD patients with inadequate response to intravitreal ranibizumab or with relapse, and therefore, switched to aflibercept treatment, the anatomical improvement and sustainment were observed, however, functional recovery could not be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ertan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gaziosmanpaşa Training Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - N Efe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Afyon University of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - M C Sabaner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bafra State Hospital, Samsun, Turkey
| | - M Dogan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Afyon University of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
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20
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Zaytseva OV, Neroeva NV, Okhotsimskaya TD, Bobykin EV. [Anti-VEGF therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: causes of incomplete response]. Vestn Oftalmol 2021; 137:152-159. [PMID: 34726870 DOI: 10.17116/oftalma2021137051152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is one of the leading causes of decreased vision in the elderly population in many countries, including Russia. Anti-VEGF therapy is undoubtedly the «gold standard» of treatment for the disease, but its use in different patients is known to produce results with significant interindividual differences. This article reviews modern ideas about the clinical assessment of the degree of response to anti-VEGF therapy, possible reasons for its insufficient effectiveness (clinical, pharmacological, or related to nAMD pathogenesis), discusses the potential applications of the existing therapeutic strategies, and considers the prospects for the emergence of new strategies that could be used for solving that problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- O V Zaytseva
- Helmholtz National Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russia.,A.I. Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - N V Neroeva
- Helmholtz National Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russia
| | - T D Okhotsimskaya
- Helmholtz National Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russia
| | - E V Bobykin
- Ural State Medical University, Yekaterinburg, Russia
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21
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Davoudi S, Roohipourmoallai R, Guerin CM, Iyer SSR. Exacerbation of pigment epithelial detachment following aflibercept: A case of bevacizumab rescue. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2021; 24:101216. [PMID: 34693076 PMCID: PMC8517279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2021.101216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We describe a 61-year-old female patient with a retinal pigment epithelial detachment (PED) of the left eye in the setting of neovascular aged-macular degeneration (nAMD) with unanticipated responses to aflibercept and bevacizumab. Observations A reduction of PED size from 423 μm to 309 μm and vision improvement (20/150- to 20/40) were observed after five consecutive monthly injections of bevacizumab. A switch to aflibercept for the following two consecutive months showed an unanticipated incremental decline in vision (20/80- at month 1, 20/150- at month 2), increased PED size (749 μm), and the development of subretinal fluid (SRF). After a switch back to bevacizumab, the subretinal fluid resolved. After nine consecutive monthly injections of bevacizumab, final vision in the left eye was 20/25, and final PED height was 84 μm. Conclusions Different anti-VEGFs may induce varied and unpredictable responses among the most recalcitrant cases of nAMD. Unpredictably, PED size in our patient worsened with aflibercept treatment. Importance Treatment for nAMD with large PEDs has poor level 1 evidence for guidance, and customized treatment should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Davoudi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ramak Roohipourmoallai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Cynthia M Guerin
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Siva S R Iyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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22
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Short-Term Outcomes following "Switching" to Monthly Ranibizumab in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Showing Insufficient Response to Bimonthly Aflibercept. J Ophthalmol 2021; 2021:5547686. [PMID: 34422404 PMCID: PMC8376439 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5547686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Results CRT and logMAR VA were 349.62 ± 223.51 μm and 0.50 ± 0.23 at the baseline and 274.69 ± 148.77 μm and 0.46 ± 0.24, 311.54 ± 192.90 μm and 0.45 ± 0.20 at 1 month after the first and third ranibizumab injections, respectively. The CRT decrease during three ranibizumab injections was statistically significant (38.08 ± 69.52 μm, p=0.033). Change in VA was not statistically significant. The percentage of eyes with SRF was 100% at baseline and 53.8%, 76.9%, and 69.2% one month after each ranibizumab injections. The percentage of eyes with IRF was 38.5% at baseline and 23.1%, 23.1%, and 15.4%, respectively, after switching. Conclusion Switching to monthly ranibizumab in nAMD showing an insufficient response to bimonthly aflibercept led to immediate anatomical improvement. It can be considered in countries where the healthcare insurance system limits the minimum injection interval of aflibercept.
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23
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Retrospective Analysis of Treatment Patterns in Pseudophakic Diabetic Macular Oedema Eyes Treated with Anti-VEGF. J Ophthalmol 2021; 2021:9967831. [PMID: 34367690 PMCID: PMC8337101 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9967831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Methods We performed a retrospective review of outcomes in 81 pseudophakic eyes with DMO that received at least 6 anti-VEGF injections. We reviewed baseline and posttreatment optical coherence tomography images, visual acuity, prescribing patterns, time taken to deliver anti-VEGF injections, and structural and functional outcomes. Results It took an average of 913 ± 454.1 days to deliver a mean of 11.1 ± 4.7 anti-VEGF injections. Time from baseline to receiving the first 6 anti-VEGF injections was longer than 9 months in 74.7% (n = 59/79) of eyes. There was a mean gain of 1.6 letters (−0.03 logMAR) from baseline to the end point. After 5 anti-VEGF intravitreal injections, the mean CMT was 391.9 μm from 474.4 μm at baseline (p < 0.0001). In 52 of 79 eyes (65.8%), more than one type of anti-VEGF agent was used. Conclusions The anti-VEGF treatment used to treat these eyes with DMO was suboptimal, a finding consistent with recently published “real-world” data. There was a strong tendency for patients to be switched within the class to a second anti-VEGF agent.
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24
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Waters SB, Zhou C, Nguyen T, Zelkha R, Lee H, Kazlauskas A, Rosenblatt MI, Malik AB, Yamada KH. VEGFR2 Trafficking by KIF13B Is a Novel Therapeutic Target for Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:5. [PMID: 33533881 PMCID: PMC7862734 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.2.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor VEGFR2 are promising therapeutic targets for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a topically applicable option, we developed the peptide KAI to selectively interfere with VEGFR2 trafficking to the cell surface where it receives VEGF. This study sought to determine the efficacy of KAI in the mouse model of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Methods The specificity of KAI was tested by surface plasmon resonance. The drug delivery was analyzed by cryosection and the ELISA after treatment of KAI eyedrop to the mouse eyes. For the laser-induced CNV model, mice with laser-induced ruptures in Bruch's membrane received daily treatment of KAI eyedrop or control peptide. The other groups of mice received intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF or IgG control. After two weeks, CNV was quantified and compared. Results First, we showed the specificity and high affinity of KAI to VEGFR2. Next, biodistribution revealed successful delivery of KAI eyedrop to the back of the mouse eyes. KAI significantly reduced the disease progression in laser-induced CNV. The comparison with current therapy suggests that KAI eyedrop is as effective as current therapy to prevent CNV in wet AMD. Moreover, the genetic deletion of a kinesin KIF13B, which mediates VEGFR2 trafficking to the cell surface, confirmed the pivotal role of KIF13B in disease progression of wet AMD and neovascularization from choroidal vessels. Conclusions Taken together, pharmacologic inhibition and genetic deletion complementarily suggest the therapeutic possibility of targeting VEGFR2 trafficking to inhibit pathological angiogenesis in wet AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen B Waters
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Christopher Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Tara Nguyen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Ruth Zelkha
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Hyun Lee
- Biophysics Core & Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Andrius Kazlauskas
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Mark I Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Asrar B Malik
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Kaori H Yamada
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Park MS, Lee SJ. Comparison of Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Aflibercept Injections for Central Serous Chorioretinopathy. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2021. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2021.62.7.957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: We examined differences in the treatment effects of intravitreal bevacizumab injections and intravitreal aflibercept injections in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy. Methods: This retrospective analysis included 51 eyes of 49 patients who received intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent injections after initial diagnosis with central serous chorioretinopathy. The patients were divided into two groups: one received an intravitreal bevacizumab injection, and another one received an intravitreal aflibercept injection. Patients with no reaction to treatment or a worsened condition, received repeat treatment with the same therapy. After treatment, patients were monitored for >3 months. Data were collected regarding best- corrected visual acuity (BCVA), subfoveal choroidal thickness, injection number, and treatment duration. Results: Both intravitreal bevacizumab injections and intravitreal aflibercept injections led to significant differences in BCVA (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001) and subfoveal choroidal thickness (p < 0.0001, p = 0.011), compared between before and after treatment. However, no differences between groups were observed in mean change of BCVA or subfoveal choroidal thickness. In addition, there were no differences between groups in injection number and treatment duration. Conclusions: In patients with central serous chorioretinopathy, both intravitreal bevacizumab injections and intravitreal aflibercept injections are effective treatment methods. There were no differences between the two medicines in terms of functional and anatomical recovery, or the injection number and treatment duration.
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26
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Piotrowska M, Spodzieja M, Kuncewicz K, Rodziewicz-Motowidło S, Orlikowska M. CD160 protein as a new therapeutic target in a battle against autoimmune, infectious and lifestyle diseases. Analysis of the structure, interactions and functions. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 224:113694. [PMID: 34273660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored transmembrane glycoprotein CD160 (cluster of differentiation 160) is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. Four isoforms, which differ by the presence or absence of an immunoglobulin-like domain and the mode of anchoring in the cell membrane, have been identified. CD160 has a significant impact on the proper functioning of the immune system by activating natural killer cells and inhibiting T cells. CD160 is a natural ligand for herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM), a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily. The CD160-HVEM complex is a rare example of direct interaction between the two different superfamilies. The interaction of these two proteins leads to the inhibition of CD4+ T cells which, in consequence, leads to the inhibition of the correct response of the immune system. Available research articles indicate that CD160 plays a role in various types of cancer, chronic viral diseases, malaria, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, atherosclerosis, autoimmune diseases, skin inflammation, acute liver damage and retinal vascular disease. We present here an overview of the CD160 protein, the general characteristics of the receptor and its isoforms, details of structural studies of CD160 and the CD160-HVEM complex, as well as a description of the role of this protein in selected human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Piotrowska
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marta Spodzieja
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kuncewicz
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sylwia Rodziewicz-Motowidło
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marta Orlikowska
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland.
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27
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Hsia NY, Lin CJ, Chen HS, Chang CH, Bair H, Lai CT, Lin JM, Chen WL, Tien PT, Wu WC, Tsai YY. Short-Term Outcomes of Refractory Diabetic Macular Edema Switch From Ranibizumab to Dexamethasone Implant and the Influential Factors: A Retrospective Real World Experience. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:649979. [PMID: 33996856 PMCID: PMC8121145 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.649979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX) implants in refractory diabetic macular edema (DME) treated by intravitreal ranibizumab. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed DME patients who received DEX implant treatment after being refractory to at least 3 monthly intravitreal ranibizumab injections. The main outcomes were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and intraocular pressure (IOP). Results: Twenty-nine eyes of 26 patients who had previously received an average of 8.1 ± 4.4 ranibizumab injections were included. Patients received between one and three DEX implants during 12.4 ± 7.4 months of follow-up. The mean final CRT significantly decreased from 384.4 ± 114.4 μm at baseline to 323.9 ± 77.7 μm (p = 0.0249). The mean final BCVA was 51.4 ± 21.3 letters, which was not significant compared to baseline (44.9 ± 30.2 letters, p = 0.1149). Mean IOP did not increase significantly. All patients tolerated the treatment well without serious adverse events. Higher baseline CRT and worse BCVA correlated with better therapeutic responses. Conclusion: Switching to DEX implant is feasible and safe for treating patients of DME refractory to intravitreal ranibizumab in real world. Further larger-scale or multicenter studies would be conducted to explore different DEX treatment strategies for DME, such as first-line or early switch therapy, for better BCVA improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning-Yi Hsia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Ju Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Sheng Chen
- An-Shin Dialysis Center, NephroCare Ltd., Fresenius Medical Care, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsien Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Henry Bair
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Chun-Ting Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jane-Ming Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Lu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Tai Tien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chuan Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yu Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Pouw AE, Greiner MA, Coussa RG, Jiao C, Han IC, Skeie JM, Fingert JH, Mullins RF, Sohn EH. Cell-Matrix Interactions in the Eye: From Cornea to Choroid. Cells 2021; 10:687. [PMID: 33804633 PMCID: PMC8003714 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in all parts of the eye, from maintaining clarity and hydration of the cornea and vitreous to regulating angiogenesis, intraocular pressure maintenance, and vascular signaling. This review focuses on the interactions of the ECM for homeostasis of normal physiologic functions of the cornea, vitreous, retina, retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch's membrane, and choroid as well as trabecular meshwork, optic nerve, conjunctiva and tenon's layer as it relates to glaucoma. A variety of pathways and key factors related to ECM in the eye are discussed, including but not limited to those related to transforming growth factor-β, vascular endothelial growth factor, basic-fibroblastic growth factor, connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinases (including MMP-2 and MMP-9, and MMP-14), collagen IV, fibronectin, elastin, canonical signaling, integrins, and endothelial morphogenesis consistent of cellular activation-tubulogenesis and cellular differentiation-stabilization. Alterations contributing to disease states such as wound healing, diabetes-related complications, Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, angiogenesis, fibrosis, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and posteriorly inserted vitreous base are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew E. Pouw
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Mark A. Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Razek G. Coussa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Chunhua Jiao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Ian C. Han
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Jessica M. Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
| | - John H. Fingert
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Robert F. Mullins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Elliott H. Sohn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Razavi S, Kodjikian L, Giocanti-Aurégan A, Dufour I, Souied E. Efficacy and safety of intravitreal aflibercept in ranibizumab-refractory patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. BMC Ophthalmol 2021; 21:90. [PMID: 33596867 PMCID: PMC7890834 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-021-01841-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents have become the standard of care in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Despite generally excellent response rates to anti-VEGF therapy, some patients do not respond or may respond suboptimally. In the case of refractory or rapidly recurring fluid in nAMD, clinicians may switch to another anti-VEGF agent. TITAN was an observational study that assessed the effectiveness and safety of intravitreal aflibercept (IVT-AFL) in patients with nAMD refractory to ranibizumab who switched to IVT-AFL after less than 12 months of ranibizumab treatment in routine clinical practice in France. Methods TITAN was an observational, retrospective and prospective 12-month study conducted at 28 centres in France. Patients with nAMD refractory to ranibizumab were enrolled. Patients who were switched from ranibizumab to IVT-AFL were followed for 12 months. Data were obtained from medical records for retrospectively included patients, and at routine follow-up visits for those included prospectively. The main outcome measure was percentage of patients who achieved treatment success (gain of ≥1 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters in best-corrected visual acuity [BCVA] and/or any reduction in central retinal thickness [CRT]) from baseline to 12 months after switching. A sample size of 225 patients was determined based on a 2-sided 95% confidence interval with a width equal to 0.12 when the sample proportion was 0.70. Results We analysed safety data (N = 217) and clinical outcomes from patients in the per-protocol population (n = 125). The mean (standard deviation) number of IVT-AFL injections was 7.5 (2.6). Treatment success was achieved in 68.8% of patients. Mean BCVA change from baseline to Month 12 was + 1.5 letters (P = 0.105) and the mean CRT change was − 45.0 μm (P < 0.001). In a subgroup analysis, in patients who received three initial monthly IVT-AFL injections, mean BCVA gain was 3.3 letters at Month 12 (P = 0.015). Excluding lack of efficacy and inappropriate scheduling of drug administration, the most common adverse event was eye pain (2.3%). Conclusions Switching ranibizumab-refractory patients with nAMD to IVT-AFL may improve visual outcomes in some patients, particularly those who receive three initial monthly injections. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02321241. First posted: December 22, 2014; Last update posted: July 2, 2018 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12886-021-01841-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Razavi
- Centre d'Ophtalmologie, 30 Boulevard Heurteloup, 37000, Tours, France.
| | - Laurent Kodjikian
- Centre Hospitalier de la Cr Rousse, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | | | - Ingrid Dufour
- Bayer HealthCare SAS, 220 Avenue de la Recherche, 59120, Loos, France
| | - Eric Souied
- Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, 40 Verdun avenue, Créteil, 94000, Paris, France
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30
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Chan KQ, Stewart C, Chester N, Hamzah SH, Yusof A. The effect of Eurycoma Longifolia on the regulation of reproductive hormones in young males. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14001. [PMID: 33559971 DOI: 10.1111/and.14001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Eurycoma longifolia supplementation increases testosterone levels in humans via activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and/or the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis mainly in older adults and nonhealthy populations. This study aimed to assess the impact of Eurycoma longifolia on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axes in healthy young males since this might promote functional testosterone prowess. Thirty-two males (24.4 ± 4.7 years; 1.74 ± 0.07 m; 73.7 ± 8.4 kg) in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, matched-paired study received 600 mg/day Eurycoma longifolia or placebo for two weeks. Blood analysis using repeated measures analysis of variance showed significant interaction and time effects for testosterone (F1,30 = 9.04, p = .005), free testosterone (F1,30 = 7.13, p = .012) and estradiol (F1,30 = 8.07, p = .008) levels in favour of the treatment group, while luteinising hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and sexual hormone-binding globulin did not. The lack of changes in luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels suggests that a lesser role played by Eurycoma longifolia in activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in the young adults. The raised testosterone level may be due to a greater rate of hormone production via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The supplementation of Eurycoma longifolia for two weeks demonstrates steroidogenic effects on young men were dose-related. Consequently, the raised testosterone following Eurycoma longifolia supplementations could benefit muscle and strength gain in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Quin Chan
- Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Jalan Genting Kelang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.,Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Claire Stewart
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Neil Chester
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sareena H Hamzah
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ashril Yusof
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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31
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Pessoa B, Malheiro L, Carneiro I, Monteiro S, Coelho J, Coelho C, Figueira J, Meireles A, Melo Beirão JN. Intravitreal Ranibizumab or Aflibercept After Bevacizumab in Diabetic Macular Edema: Exploratory Retrospective Analysis. Clin Ophthalmol 2021; 15:253-260. [PMID: 33519187 PMCID: PMC7837538 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s280644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim To evaluate the efficacy of switching from bevacizumab to ranibizumab or aflibercept in eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) unresponsive to bevacizumab. Methods Single-center retrospective comparative study of patients with DME unresponsive to intravitreal bevacizumab that was switched to ranibizumab or aflibercept. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) were analysed prior to and 4 months after the switch. Ocular coherence tomography (OCT) biomarkers were also analysed. Results Fifty-six eyes from 40 patients were included in the study, 33 eyes switched to ranibizumab and 23 to aflibercept. A significant median CFT decrease was observed in both groups (p<0.001), with no between-group differences. BCVA gain was only significant in the ranibizumab group (p<0.001). None of the pre-baseline or baseline parameters were associated with the response to ranibizumab or aflibercept. Conclusion In persistent DME unresponsive to bevacizumab, both anatomical and functional improvements were observed with ranibizumab whereas aflibercept only showed an anatomical improvement. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04018833.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardete Pessoa
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luísa Malheiro
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Carneiro
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Monteiro
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Coelho
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Constança Coelho
- Genetics Laboratory, Institute of Environmental Health, Lisbon Medical School, University of Lisbon, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Figueira
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Porto, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra, Porto Portugal.,Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Angelina Meireles
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Nuno Melo Beirão
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Barış ME, Menteş J, Afrashi F, Nalçaçı S, Akkın C. Subgroups and Features of Poor Responders to Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment in Eyes with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Turk J Ophthalmol 2020; 50:275-282. [PMID: 33342194 PMCID: PMC7610050 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.galenos.2020.38488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the incidence of poor response to intravitreal (IV) anti-VEGF treatment in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) and to define subgroups of poor responders. Materials and Methods: A total of 235 treatment-naive eyes of 202 patients completed this prospective study. Patients younger than 50 years of age and those with a contraindication for anti-VEGF therapy were excluded. All eyes were treated with IV ranibizumab. Poor response was defined as recurrence, persistence, or worsening despite treatment. Poor responders were classified into subgroups based on progression patterns. Results: Of the 235 eyes, 78 (33.2%) showed poor response. Pigment epithelial detachment (PED) and occult choroidal neovascularization (CNV) were more common among poor responders (p<0.001) and 5 subgroups were identified. Conclusion: Poor response to anti-VEGF treatment is not uncommon and occult CNV and PED are frequently seen in these eyes. Various subgroups can be defined based on clinical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mine Esen Barış
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Jale Menteş
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Filiz Afrashi
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Serhad Nalçaçı
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Cezmi Akkın
- Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Turkey
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33
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Short-Term Results of Switch from Conbercept to Bevacizumab or Ranibizumab in Eyes with Persistent Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. J Ophthalmol 2020; 2020:9340356. [PMID: 33005448 PMCID: PMC7508218 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9340356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To study the short-term anatomical and functional outcomes in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) who were previously treated with conbercept and switched to ranibizumab or bevacizumab due to persistent activity. Methods This retrospective single-arm study included nAMD patients who were followed up for at least three months after switching from at least 3 monthly intravitreal conbercept injections to bevacizumab or ranibizumab for persistent choroidal neovascularization (CNV) activity. The demographic data, treatments, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and the height of pigmented epithelial detachment (PED) before and after switching were recorded and analyzed. Results A total of 64 eyes of 64 patients were included with a mean follow-up of 9.6 ± 3.0 months. The average number of injections of conbercept was 3.6 ± 0.8 (range, 3–5) before switching. 18 eyes were switched to bevacizumab, and the other 46 eyes were switched to ranibizumab. After switching, mean BCVA slowly improved from 0.73 ± 0.48 to 0.64 ± 0.41 (p=0.0132) at one month after the last intravitreal injection of ranibizumab or bevacizumab during the mean follow-up of 4.4 ± 2.0 months. One month after switching, the mean CMT decreased significantly from 294.9 ± 121.8 μm to 230.9 ± 107.0 μm (p < 0.0001) and kept stable during the follow-up. There was a significant reduction of maximum PED height (mPEDH) at the first month after switching (from 384.3 ± 340.3 μm to 287.2 ± 245.2 μm, p=0.0018) and kept stable during the follow-up. The mean PED height at foveal center (cPEDH) showed a regression over time after switching (from 169.3 ± 230.6 μm to 130.5 ± 180.2 μm, p=0.0227) and also kept stable during the follow-up. The proportion of patients with IRF was slightly increased but not statistically significant before switching. After switching, this proportion decreased significantly from 96.9% to 81.3% at one month after the first intravitreal injection of ranibizumab or bevacizumab (p=0.0086). The proportion of patients with SRF did not change significantly before and after switching. The mean decrease of mPEDH and cPEDH at the last follow-up after switching was significantly larger in the IVR subgroup than in the IVB subgroup (p=0.023 and 0.010). Conclusion Our results indicate that switching from intravitreal conbercept injections to bevacizumab or ranibizumab can lead to significant improvement of CMT, PED, and IRF and slight improvement of BCVA in a short period of time for persistent nAMD patients.
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Incomplete response to Anti-VEGF therapy in neovascular AMD: Exploring disease mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 82:100906. [PMID: 33022379 PMCID: PMC10368393 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs have revolutionized the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NVAMD). However, many patients suffer from incomplete response to anti-VEGF therapy (IRT), which is defined as (1) persistent (plasma) fluid exudation; (2) unresolved or new hemorrhage; (3) progressive lesion fibrosis; and/or (4) suboptimal vision recovery. The first three of these collectively comprise the problem of persistent disease activity (PDA) in spite of anti-VEGF therapy. Meanwhile, the problem of suboptimal vision recovery (SVR) is defined as a failure to achieve excellent functional visual acuity of 20/40 or better in spite of sufficient anti-VEGF treatment. Thus, incomplete response to anti-VEGF therapy, and specifically PDA and SVR, represent significant clinical unmet needs. In this review, we will explore PDA and SVR in NVAMD, characterizing the clinical manifestations and exploring the pathobiology of each. We will demonstrate that PDA occurs most frequently in NVAMD patients who develop high-flow CNV lesions with arteriolarization, in contrast to patients with capillary CNV who are highly responsive to anti-VEGF therapy. We will review investigations of experimental CNV and demonstrate that both types of CNV can be modeled in mice. We will present and consider a provocative hypothesis: formation of arteriolar CNV occurs via a distinct pathobiology, termed neovascular remodeling (NVR), wherein blood-derived macrophages infiltrate the incipient CNV lesion, recruit bone marrow-derived mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs) from the circulation, and activate MPCs to become vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and myofibroblasts, driving the development of high-flow CNV with arteriolarization and perivascular fibrosis. In considering SVR, we will discuss the concept that limited or poor vision in spite of anti-VEGF may not be caused simply by photoreceptor degeneration but instead may be associated with photoreceptor synaptic dysfunction in the neurosensory retina overlying CNV, triggered by infiltrating blood-derived macrophages and mediated by Müller cell activation Finally, for each of PDA and SVR, we will discuss current approaches to disease management and treatment and consider novel avenues for potential future therapies.
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de Sá Quirino-Makarczyk L, Sainz Ugarte MDF, Viana Vieira B, Kniggendorf S, Saito Regatieri CV. Short-term results of early switch from Ranibizumab to Aflibercept in poor or non responder age related macular degeneration in clinical practice. Int J Retina Vitreous 2020; 6:9. [PMID: 32467776 PMCID: PMC7222566 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-020-00212-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the change in best corrected visual acuity (VA) and central macular thickness (CMT) following treatment with intravitreal aflibercept (AFL) in patients poorly responders or non responders to ranibizumab (RBZ). METHODS Charts of patients injected with RBZ from January 2016 to December 2018 (548 cases) due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) were reviewed. Fifty-six cases met our criteria for poor responders to RBZ (CMT decreased between 5 and 15% over treatment) or for non responders to RBZ (CMT decreased less than 5% or increased over treatment). RESULTS After the third AFL injection, CMT decreased from 384.38 ± 123.20 μm to 296.18 ± 70.52 μm in the non-responder group and from 320.00 ± 82.05 μm to 282.27 ± 56.86 μm in the poor responder group. Although decrease in macular thickness was overall achieved 3 months after switching to AFL, it was not translated in VA improvement. CONCLUSIONS it was observed that nAMD patients classified as RBZ non-responders tend to respond better to AFL than RBZ poor-responders anatomically, without correspondent improvement in VA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sérgio Kniggendorf
- Department of Retina and Vitreous of Hospital Oftalmológico de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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Beneficial switch from aflibercept to ranibizumab for the treatment of refractory neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 258:1591-1596. [PMID: 32399582 PMCID: PMC7375986 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-020-04730-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of switching to ranibizumab in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) refractory to aflibercept treatment and to identify predictive factors for switch response. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted including 32 eyes from 26 patients with refractory nAMD, who switched from monthly intravitreal aflibercept treatment (≥ 6 months) to ranibizumab. Outcome measures included changes in visual acuity (VA), intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), pigment epithelial detachment (PED), and central retinal thickness (CRT), evaluated at 6 months before switch (T1), at the time of switch (T2), and 3 months post-switch (T3). Results There was an increase in CRT from T1 to T2, which decreased after switch from T2 to T3. Regression analysis of the changes per month observed between time points showed significant differences in PED height (p = 0.02), SRF (p = 0.01), and neuroretinal thickness as a measure for IRF (p = 0.03). No significant change was found for VA. Predictive factors for better switch response included an exacerbation between T1 and T2, thicker measurements at T2, male sex, shorter treatment duration before switch, and fewer preceding injections. No association with preceding switch was found. Conclusion Patients with nAMD refractory to aflibercept benefit from switching to ranibizumab, particularly those whose condition worsened prior to the switch. This may be explained by drug tolerance to aflibercept. Our findings may facilitate making appropriate treatment decisions, potentially improving patient outcomes.
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Clemens CR, Alten F, Termühlen J, Mihailovic N, Rosenberger F, Heiduschka P, Eter N. Prospective PED-study of intravitreal aflibercept for refractory vascularized pigment epithelium detachment due to age-related macular degeneration: morphologic characteristics of non-responders in optical coherence tomography. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 258:1411-1417. [PMID: 32306096 PMCID: PMC7306025 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-020-04675-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of a fixed intravitreal aflibercept regimen in patients with vascular pigment epithelium detachment (vPED) secondary to age-related macular degeneration with refractory subretinal fluid. Methods A prospective, interventional case series involved 20 eyes of 20 patients with refractory subretinal fluid and vPED treated with at least three injections of intravitreal anti-VEGF prior to study inclusion. After study inclusion, patients were treated with three injections of intravitreal aflibercept 2 mg/0.05 mL monthly followed by injections every 8 weeks. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were evaluated at all visits. Fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography were performed at baseline and quarterly. Primary outcomes were effectivity of a fixed treatment as measured in change in BCVA, PED greatest linear diameter (GLD), and PED height from baseline to month 12. In an additional post hoc analysis, vPED patients were differentiated into two groups: (1) vPED lesions that showed persistence of subretinal fluid throughout 1 year of treatment and (2) vPED lesions that showed complete resolution of subretinal fluid at least at one of the monthly performed OCT volume scans. Reflectivity values were determined in the subretinal pigment epithelium (RPE) compartment in OCT scans at baseline, month 6 and 12. Results A total of 18 patients completed the study protocol. The mean age was 74.8 ± 10.6 years, and six patients were female. The median BCVA of all patients was 72.0 ± 8.0 EDTRS letters at baseline and 72.5 ± 9.5 EDTRS letters at 12-month follow-up (p = 0.7420). The median PED height in all patients as measured in the OCT images significantly decreased from 372.0 ± 140.0 μm to 149.0 ± 142.0 μm after 12 months of treatment (p = 0.0020). Persistent subretinal fluid was present at every OCT control in six patients (group 1). Twelve patients showed resolution of subretinal fluid at least at one OCT control (group 2). Reflectivity values in the sub-RPE compartment in OCT scans were 41.48 ± 4.48 (group 1) and 42.62 ± 12.34 (group 2) at baseline (p = 0.854) and 65.88 ± 6.74 and 50.87 ± 14.11 at month 12 (p = 0.038). Conclusions Intravitreal aflibercept in refractory vPED leads to a significant reduction in PED height and disease activity as well as preservation of BCVA over 1 year. Persistent subretinal fluid was present in PED lesions with high values of reflectivity under the RPE, suggesting both a diffusion barrier and an increasing fibrovascular maturization of the choroidal neovascularization. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03370380
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Clemens
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany.
| | - F Alten
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - J Termühlen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - N Mihailovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - F Rosenberger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - P Heiduschka
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - N Eter
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Domagkstrasse 15, 48149, Muenster, Germany
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Liu Y, Cheng J, Gao Y, Qin L, Min X, Zhang M. Efficacy of switching therapy to aflibercept for patients with persistent diabetic macular edema: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:382. [PMID: 32355826 PMCID: PMC7186737 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2020.02.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background To evaluate functional and anatomical consequences of switching anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy from bevacizumab and/or ranibizumab to aflibercept intravitreal injection for the treatment of persistent diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods Analysis of switching treatment in patients with persistent DME was performed using a literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science) prior to May 2019. Therapeutic effect parameters, including mean change of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT), were extracted from baseline to different follow-up times post initial injections. The quality of studies was assessed with the Downs and Black checklist. Data pertaining to ocular and systemic safety adverse events (SAEs) were collected as well as subgroup analysis stratified by pre-switch anti-VEGF reagents. All results were analyzed and pooled using random-effects models with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Fourteen studies involving 489 eyes met the inclusion criteria. The mean differences in BCVA were significantly improved at 1, 2 and 3 months with −0.11 logMAR (P=0.016), −0.22 logMAR (P<0.001) and −0.24 logMAR (P<0.01), respectively. Vision gain was also assessed following the aflibercept injection with a mean change of −0.10 logMAR (P<0.001) at 6 months and −0.08 logMAR (P=0.01) at 12 months. CMT reduction was significant from baseline with a mean decrease of 80.52 µm (P<0.001) at 1 month, 89.6 µm (P<0.013) at 2 months, 113.88 µm (P<0.001) at 3 months and 125.12 µm (P<0.001) at 6 months. Mean CMT continued to decline by 75.70 µm (P<0.001) at 12 months as well. Conclusions This meta-analysis indicated the comparable efficacy and safety of a conversion treatment to aflibercept in cases of unsatisfactory responses to other anti-VEGF drugs. Switching treatment produces significant advantage for vision acuity recovery and macular edema improvement among persistent DME patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiahan Cheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yunxia Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ling Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaoxue Min
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Giuffrè C, Cicinelli MV, Marchese A, Coppola M, Parodi MB, Bandello F. Simultaneous intravitreal dexamethasone and aflibercept for refractory macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 258:787-793. [PMID: 31897703 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04577-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the functional and anatomical outcomes of concurrent administration of aflibercept injection and dexamethasone (DEX) implant in patients with macular edema (ME) secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO), refractory to each of the two drugs previously administered as monotherapy. Secondary outcomes included the number of retreatments required in a 12-month follow-up and safety. METHODS This is a prospective, interventional case series of consecutive patients with refractory ME secondary to RVO, followed over a year. One injection of aflibercept was followed by a DEX implant on the same day; retreatment was driven by the persistence of ME on SD-OCT at least 4 months after the previous combined therapy. Central retinal thickness (CRT), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and intraocular pressure (IOP) were collected at 1 month and then every 2 months until the end of follow-up. RESULTS Thirty eyes of 30 Caucasian patients were enrolled; mean duration of RVO before the first combined treatment was 25 ± 5 months (range 11 ± 30). Baseline BCVA was 0.73 ± 0.5 LogMAR, with no significant changes at 12 months (0.77 ± 0.51 μm, p = 0.2). Baseline CRT was 578.3 ± 161 μm, reducing to 352.5 ± 81 μm at 12 months (p = 0.003). Thirteen eyes (43.3%) required a second treatment. Twenty eyes (66.6%) showed no ME at the end of follow-up. One patient (3.3%) required topical IOP-lowering therapy during the study. CONCLUSION In eyes with ME secondary to RVO unresponsive to either aflibercept or DEX administered singularly, a combination therapy with simultaneous administration of aflibercept and DEX was effective in resolving ME, despite the absence of visual improvement. Earlier combined treatment in the course of the disease might lead to better functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Giuffrè
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Cicinelli
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Marchese
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Coppola
- Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera di Monza, Via G. B. Pergolesi, 33, 20900, Monza, Italy
| | - Maurizio Battaglia Parodi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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Kim D, Park DG, Ryu G, Sagong M. Efficacy of Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant for Diabetic Macular Edema According to Previous Responses to Bevacizumab. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2020. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2020.61.1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Doyeon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Dong-Geun Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Gahyung Ryu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Min Sagong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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Shi L, Zhao M, Abbey CA, Tsai SH, Xie W, Pham D, Chapman S, Bayless KJ, Hein TW, Rosa RH, Ko ML, Kuo L, Ko GYP. Newly Identified Peptide, Peptide Lv, Promotes Pathological Angiogenesis. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e013673. [PMID: 31698979 PMCID: PMC6915261 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.013673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background We recently discovered a small endogenous peptide, peptide Lv, with the ability to activate vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 and its downstream signaling. As vascular endothelial growth factor through vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 contributes to normal development, vasodilation, angiogenesis, and pathogenesis of various diseases, we investigated the role of peptide Lv in vasodilation and developmental and pathological angiogenesis in this study. Methods and Results The endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and 3-dimensional sprouting assays were used to test the abilities of peptide Lv in angiogenesis in vitro. The chick chorioallantoic membranes and early postnatal mice were used to examine its impact on developmental angiogenesis. The oxygen-induced retinopathy and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization mouse models were used for in vivo pathological angiogenesis. The isolated porcine retinal and coronary arterioles were used for vasodilation assays. Peptide Lv elicited angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Peptide Lv and vascular endothelial growth factor acted synergistically in promoting endothelial cell proliferation. Peptide Lv-elicited vasodilation was not completely dependent on nitric oxide, indicating that peptide Lv had vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2/nitric oxide-independent targets. An antibody against peptide Lv, anti-Lv, dampened vascular endothelial growth factor-elicited endothelial proliferation and laser-induced vascular leakage and choroidal neovascularization. While the pathological angiogenesis in mouse eyes with oxygen-induced retinopathy was enhanced by exogenous peptide Lv, anti-Lv dampened this process. Furthermore, deletion of peptide Lv in mice significantly decreased pathological neovascularization compared with their wild-type littermates. Conclusions These results demonstrate that peptide Lv plays a significant role in pathological angiogenesis but may be less critical during development. Peptide Lv is involved in pathological angiogenesis through vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2-dependent and -independent pathways. As anti-Lv dampened the pathological angiogenesis in the eye, anti-Lv may have a therapeutic potential to treat pathological angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liheng Shi
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University College Station TX
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Medical Physiology Ophthalmic Vascular Research Program College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Colette A Abbey
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Shu-Huai Tsai
- Department of Medical Physiology Ophthalmic Vascular Research Program College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Wankun Xie
- Department of Medical Physiology Ophthalmic Vascular Research Program College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Dylan Pham
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University College Station TX
| | - Samantha Chapman
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University College Station TX
| | - Kayla J Bayless
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Travis W Hein
- Department of Medical Physiology Ophthalmic Vascular Research Program College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Robert H Rosa
- Department of Medical Physiology Ophthalmic Vascular Research Program College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX.,Department of Ophthalmology Baylor Scott & White Eye Institute Temple TX
| | - Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University College Station TX.,Department of Biology Blinn College Bryan TX
| | - Lih Kuo
- Department of Medical Physiology Ophthalmic Vascular Research Program College of Medicine Texas A&M University Health Science Center Bryan TX
| | - Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University College Station TX.,Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience Texas A&M University College Station TX
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Spooner K, Hong T, Nair R, Chow NCC, Broadhead GK, Wijeyakumar W, Chang AA. Long-term outcomes of switching to aflibercept for treatment-resistant neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Acta Ophthalmol 2019; 97:e706-e712. [PMID: 30740921 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report 4-year outcomes following the switch to aflibercept in treatment-resistant neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). METHODS In this prospective, open-label, non-controlled, clinical trial, 49 patients with treatment-resistant nAMD received 2 mg intravitreal aflibercept as three loading doses every 4 weeks, followed by injections every 8 weeks for the first 48 weeks, then an individualized regimen for a further 36 months, following previous treatment with ranibizumab and/or bevacizumab. Outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), pigment epithelial detachment (PED) height and geographic atrophy (GA) surface area. RESULTS Of the 49 patients who were initially recruited, data from 39 eyes of 39 patients were available at 48-month follow-up. Mean age was 76.7 ± 7.2 years. Over the 48 months, these eyes received a mean of 32.1 ± 5.6 injections. The mean BCVA improved significantly following 12 months of treatment (4.9 ± 9.0 ETDRS letters, p < 0.001); however, this was not maintained and was similar to baseline after 48 months (mean difference -0.4 ± 13.3 letters between baseline and 48 months, p < 0.001). The reduction in CRT from baseline was 170.3 ± 143.3 μm (p < 0.001) with absence of macular fluid in 56% of the 39 eyes at the end of month 48. PED height reduced by a mean 77.5 ± 20.0 μm, and geographic atrophy increased by a mean of 4.1 ± 3.4 mm2 (p < 0.01) over the 48 months. CONCLUSION Aflibercept is an effective alternative therapy for treatment-resistant nAMD. Good anatomical and stable functional responses are achievable with continued therapy. The lack of continued visual improvement may be representative of GA progression, reflecting the progression of late-stage nAMD in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Spooner
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
- University of Sydney Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Thomas Hong
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Rashmi Nair
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
- University of Sydney Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Nicholas Chian Chiang Chow
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Geoffrey K. Broadhead
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Wijeyanthy Wijeyakumar
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Andrew A. Chang
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science Sydney NSW Australia
- University of Sydney Sydney NSW Australia
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Barmas-Alamdari D, D’Souza HS, Kapoor KG, Wagner AL. Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept: A Comprehensive Review. Semin Ophthalmol 2019; 34:420-435. [DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2019.1641526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Haley S. D’Souza
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
- Ophthalmology Research, Wagner Macula and Retina Center, Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
| | - Kapil G. Kapoor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
- Ophthalmology Research, Wagner Macula and Retina Center, Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
| | - Alan L. Wagner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
- Ophthalmology Research, Wagner Macula and Retina Center, Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
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Li X, Zhang Y, Zhang Z, Xu Y, Zhang M. One-Year Outcomes of Intravitreal Conbercept for Treatment-Resistant Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmic Res 2019; 62:93-100. [DOI: 10.1159/000500118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Ibrahim WS, Eldaly ZH, Saleh MG, Rateb MF, Aldoghaimy AH. Switching to Aflibercept in Diabetic Macular Edema after Unsatisfactory Response to Other Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Drugs. KOREAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2019; 33:122-130. [PMID: 30977321 PMCID: PMC6462479 DOI: 10.3341/kjo.2018.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy of switching to aflibercept in diabetic macular edema (DME) with suboptimal response to previous anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections. METHODS A prospective interventional case series study recruited patients from a single center diagnosed with DME with suboptimal response to anti-VEGF injections. Three consecutive monthly injections of aflibercept were performed. The primary outcome measure was mean change in visual acuity after switching to aflibercept. RESULTS Forty-two patients (42 eyes) were included. Baseline logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity was 0.87 ± 0.23 and improved significantly to 0.62 ± 0.29, 0.56 ± 0.34, and 0.46 ± 0.35 at 1, 2, and 3 months, respectively, after the first injection. Mean baseline retinal thickness was 451.57 ± 107.09 μm and decreased significantly at 1, 2, and 3 months after switching to aflibercept (346.52 ± 79.03, 328.24 ± 81.98, and 313.71 ± 85.79 μm, respectively). Both visual improvement and mean change in retinal thickness were significant in patients with pre-aflibercept best-corrected visual acuity less than 1.0 logMAR but were not significant in patients with best-corrected visual acuity more than 1.0 logMAR. CONCLUSIONS Switching to aflibercept in DME patients with an unsatisfactory response to previous anti-VEGF injections provided acceptable short-term visual and retinal architectural improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid S Ibrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Zeiad H Eldaly
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed G Saleh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud F Rateb
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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Spooner K, Hong T, Bahrami B, Chang A. A meta-analysis of patients with treatment-resistant macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusions following switching to aflibercept. Acta Ophthalmol 2019; 97:15-23. [PMID: 30251325 DOI: 10.1111/aos.13802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
To systematically review anatomical and functional outcomes of switching therapy from bevacizumab and/or ranibizumab to aflibercept in patients with persistent macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusions (RVO). A systematic search of aflibercept for the treatment of persistent macular oedema secondary to branch and central RVO was performed in EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane databases prior to June 2017. The main outcome variables described were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT). All results were analysed and pooled using random-effects models with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Eight studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 137 eyes, incorporating both branch and central RVO. Meta-analysis demonstrated a nonsignificant change in BCVA at 6 and 12 months following switch to aflibercept (4.40 letters, 95% CI: -3.10 to 11.90, p = 0.25 and 3.10 letters, 95% CI: -1.74 to 7.94, p = 0.21, respectively). Significant improvement in mean CMT was observed after switch to aflibercept at 6 (-256.00 μm, 95% CI: -318.00 to -194.00, p < 0.001) but not 12 months (-118.00 μm, 95% CI: -261.00 to 25.00, p = 0.11). Switching from bevacizumab/ranibizumab to aflibercept may improve persistent macular oedema secondary to RVO. However, there may be a limitation in the potential of visual recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Spooner
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery; Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science; Sydney NSW Australia
- University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Thomas Hong
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery; Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Bobak Bahrami
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery; Sydney NSW Australia
- University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Andrew Chang
- Sydney Retina Clinic & Day Surgery; Sydney NSW Australia
- Sydney Institute of Vision Science; Sydney NSW Australia
- University of Sydney; Sydney NSW Australia
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Lee IH, Lee JJ, Kwon HJ, Park SW, Lee JE. Clinical Changes after Switching from Ranibizumab/Aflibercept to Bevacizumab in Exudative Age-related Macular Degeneration. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2019. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2019.60.1.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- In Ho Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Jae Jung Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Han Jo Kwon
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Sung Who Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Ji Eun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
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Konidaris VE, Tsaousis KT, Anzidei R, de la Mata G, Brent AJ. Real-World Results of Switching Treatment from Ranibizumab to Aflibercept in Macular Oedema Secondary to Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion. Ophthalmol Ther 2018; 7:387-395. [PMID: 30288685 PMCID: PMC6258582 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-018-0149-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction To investigate treatment outcomes after switching from ranibizumab to aflibercept intravitreal injections in patients with macular oedema (MO) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Methods Eligible patients with refractory MO secondary to BRVO, post treatment with a minimum of three intravitreal injections of ranibizumab at 4-weekly intervals were recruited. Suboptimal or non-responders were defined as patients who had persistent intraretinal fluid (< 75% decrease from baseline) despite a minimum of three consecutive injections. These patients were switched to aflibercept injections on an as-needed basis. The primary study outcomes assessed trends in best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT). To compare means of BCVA and CRT, a paired t test two-tailed with a level of significance set at 0.05 was used. Pearson correlation coefficient was also applied to demonstrate correlation. Participants were followed up for a period of 24 weeks after switching. Results Thirty-eight eyes of 38 patients were included in the study. Patients had an average of 8.37 ranibizumab intravitreal injections over a mean period of 12 months presenting suboptimal or no response. A significant decrease of mean CRT from 388.63 ± 93.4 μm to 290.29 ± 93.5 μm (p < 0.001) and an improvement in mean BCVA from logMAR 0.66 ± 0.38 to logMAR 0.57 ± 0.27 (p = 0.025) was achieved after an average of 2.27 aflibercept injections. Conclusions Given the spectrum of therapies available to date for the management of MO secondary to BRVO, aflibercept appears to be an effective treatment option in cases refractory to ranibizumab. This study based on a small cohort of patients indicates that satisfactory results on retinal anatomy and visual outcomes can be accomplished with a smaller number of injections. Larger-scale studies are needed to extrapolate these promising results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios E Konidaris
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
| | - Konstantinos T Tsaousis
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - Rossella Anzidei
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - Guillermo de la Mata
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - Alexander J Brent
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
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Pikkel J, Attas S. "What should I inject next?" Challenging treatment decisions in the multiple anti-VEGF: a review of publications exploring anti-VEGF switching for nAMD. Int Ophthalmol 2018; 38:2031-2039. [PMID: 28852904 PMCID: PMC6153926 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-017-0695-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of our work was to collate information from studies published to date focusing on switching in anti-VEGF therapy and describe the currently available data on anti-VEGF switching in nAMD. METHODS A PubMed search of published articles from January 2010 to January 2017 was conducted. Published studies were compared in parameters of sample size, reason for switch, duration of follow-up, and switch outcome (functional and anatomical). RESULTS Our search revealed 31 relevant publications. Switching from bevacizumab to ranibizumab mostly resulted in improvement in visual acuity (VA) and anatomical outcomes (CMT, CRT; 7/8 and 6/8 studies, respectively), whereas switching from ranibizumab to bevacizumab was less effective (no VA or anatomical improvement in 2/4 studies). Switching from either agent to aflibercept resulted mostly in improvement of anatomical outcomes (19/21 studies), but rarely in VA improvement (6/21 studies). Not all results were statistically significant, likely due to small sample sizes. CONCLUSION Switching anti-VEGF therapy from bevacizumab to ranibizumab might be of benefit (functionally and anatomically) for patients who failed to improve with intravitreal bevacizumab injections, whereas switching from either agent to aflibercept resulted mostly in reduced macular thickness only.
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Pongsachareonnont P, Mak MYK, Hurst CP, Lam WC. Neovascular age-related macular degeneration: intraocular inflammatory cytokines in the poor responder to ranibizumab treatment. Clin Ophthalmol 2018; 12:1877-1885. [PMID: 30310267 PMCID: PMC6165786 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s171636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the levels of interleukin (IL)-6, vascular endothelial growth factor-A, platelet-derived growth factor, placental growth factor (PLGF), and other cytokines in the aqueous fluid of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration who respond poorly to ranibizumab. Patients and methods This is an observational, prospective study. Thirty-two eyes from 30 patients were included in the study: 11 patients who responded poorly to ranibizumab and were switched to aflibercept (AF group), 8 patients who received ranibizumab and photodynamic therapy (PDT group), and 13 patients who responded to ranibizumab (control group). Aqueous fluid samples were collected for analysis of cytokine levels at baseline and after 1, 2, and 3 months of treatment. The effect of treatment on cytokine levels was compared between the study groups and between different time points using a linear mixed-effect regression model. Results In the AF group, there was an increase in vascular endothelial growth factor-C, IL-7, and angiopoeitin-2 levels (P=0.01) and a decrease in intercellular adhesion molecule and IL-17 levels (P=0.01) between baseline and 3 months. After adjustment for age, sex, race, and type of lesion at baseline, the PLGF level was higher (P=0.02) and the IL-7 level was lower (P=0.04) in the ranibizumab non-responder group than in the ranibizumab responder group. Conclusion Switching from ranibizumab to aflibercept did not reduce intraocular levels of angiogenesis cytokines, but resulted in improvement of central subfield thickness. PLGF levels were higher in poor responders to ranibizumab. The response of lesions to medication might be related to the stage of choroidal neovascularization. Trial registration www.ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT02218177c).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pear Pongsachareonnont
- Vitreo-Retinal Research Unit, Department of Ophthamology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada,
| | - Michael Ying Kit Mak
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada,
| | - Cameron Paul Hurst
- Biostatistics Center, Department of Research Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wai-Ching Lam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada, .,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China,
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