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Pietzuch M, Mantel I, Ambresin A, Tappeiner C, Nagyova D, Donati G, Pfister IB, Schild C, Garweg JG. Intravitreal Dexamethasone as a Rescue for Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Persistent Disease Activity and High Treatment Demand. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023. [PMID: 38117666 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0105] [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: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To assess the impact of switching to, or adding, an intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Dex; Ozurdex®) in anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy on disease stability and treatment intervals in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and persistent disease activity and high treatment demand. Methods: This retrospective noncomparative multicenter longitudinal case series included pseudophakic eyes with nAMD and persistent retinal fluid despite regular anti-VEGF therapy (ranibizumab or aflibercept) that received at least 1 intravitreal Dex implant. Visual acuity, central retinal thickness (CRT), and intraocular pressure were recorded before, and after, the addition of Dex to anti-VEGF therapy. Results: Sixteen eyes of 16 patients met the inclusion criteria of persistent fluid despite anti-VEGF therapy, under treatment intervals of ≤7 weeks in 14 instances. Patients were 80.9 ± 7.4 years old and had received 25.5 ± 17.4 anti-VEGF injections before Dex over a period of 36.4 ± 21.9 months before switching. The treatment interval increased from 5.5 ± 3.2 weeks between the last anti-VEGF and first Dex injection to 11.7 ± 7.3 weeks thereafter (P = 0.022). CRT remained stable (385.3 ± 152.1, 383.9 ± 129.7, and 458.3 ± 155.2 μm before switching as well as 12 and 24 months after switching; P = 0.78 and P = 0.36, respectively). An insignificant mean short-term early increase in visual acuity was not sustained over time. Conclusions: The addition of Dex resulted in a relevant and sustained increase in treatment intervals, whereas CRT and visual acuity remained stable in these difficult-to-treat eyes. It may be discussed whether inflammation or other steroid-responsive factors play a significant role in cases of nAMD with nonsatisfactory responses to anti-VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlena Pietzuch
- Swiss Eye Institute and Clinic for Vitreoretinal Diseases, Berner Augenklinik, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Irmela Mantel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aude Ambresin
- Swiss Visio Clinic Montchoisi, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Tappeiner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pallas Kliniken, Olten, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dana Nagyova
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pallas Kliniken, Olten, Switzerland
| | - Guy Donati
- Centre Ophtalmologique de la Colline, Hirshlanden Clinics and Clinique d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Isabel B Pfister
- Swiss Eye Institute and Clinic for Vitreoretinal Diseases, Berner Augenklinik, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christin Schild
- Swiss Eye Institute and Clinic for Vitreoretinal Diseases, Berner Augenklinik, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Justus G Garweg
- Swiss Eye Institute and Clinic for Vitreoretinal Diseases, Berner Augenklinik, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
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2
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Shastri DH, Silva AC, Almeida H. Ocular Delivery of Therapeutic Proteins: A Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010205. [PMID: 36678834 PMCID: PMC9864358 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic proteins, including monoclonal antibodies, single chain variable fragment (ScFv), crystallizable fragment (Fc), and fragment antigen binding (Fab), have accounted for one-third of all drugs on the world market. In particular, these medicines have been widely used in ocular therapies in the treatment of various diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, corneal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. However, the formulation of these biomacromolecules is challenging due to their high molecular weight, complex structure, instability, short half-life, enzymatic degradation, and immunogenicity, which leads to the failure of therapies. Various efforts have been made to overcome the ocular barriers, providing effective delivery of therapeutic proteins, such as altering the protein structure or including it in new delivery systems. These strategies are not only cost-effective and beneficial to patients but have also been shown to allow for fewer drug side effects. In this review, we discuss several factors that affect the design of formulations and the delivery of therapeutic proteins to ocular tissues, such as the use of injectable micro/nanocarriers, hydrogels, implants, iontophoresis, cell-based therapy, and combination techniques. In addition, other approaches are briefly discussed, related to the structural modification of these proteins, improving their bioavailability in the posterior segments of the eye without affecting their stability. Future research should be conducted toward the development of more effective, stable, noninvasive, and cost-effective formulations for the ocular delivery of therapeutic proteins. In addition, more insights into preclinical to clinical translation are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyesh H. Shastri
- Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharmaceutical Technology, K.B. Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya, Sarva Vidyalaya Kelavani Mandal, Gandhinagar 382016, India
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Catarina Silva
- FP-I3ID (Instituto de Investigação, Inovação e Desenvolvimento), FP-BHS (Biomedical and Health Sciences Research Unit), Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa, 4249-004 Porto, Portugal
- UCIBIO (Research Unit on Applied Molecular Biosciences), REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), MEDTECH (Medicines and Healthcare Products), Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Hugo Almeida
- UCIBIO (Research Unit on Applied Molecular Biosciences), REQUIMTE (Rede de Química e Tecnologia), MEDTECH (Medicines and Healthcare Products), Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Mesosystem Investigação & Investimentos by Spinpark, Barco, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
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3
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Novel Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review of Clinical Advances in Sustained Drug Delivery Systems. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14071473. [PMID: 35890368 PMCID: PMC9319243 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the number of patients with ocular diseases is increasing as a consequence of population aging. Among them, one of the most common is the age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that leads to vision loss if it is not treated. AMD is a multifactorial disorder with two advanced forms, dry and neovascular AMD. Currently, although there is no approved therapy that significantly impacts dry AMD progression, several pharmacologic therapies exist for neovascular AMD. Notwithstanding, evidence suggests a suboptimal result in a high number of patients receiving these therapeutic options. Consequently, finding effective strategies is not only a still unmet medical need in dry AMD but also in neovascular AMD. This underlines the need for new drug delivery technologies that can improve the pharmacological action and drug concentration at the target sites. In this regard, sustained drug delivery systems are presented as the most promising therapeutic options in AMD patients. This review summarized the pathogenesis and the current treatment options for AMD, focusing on the emerging ocular sustained drug delivery approaches undergoing clinical trials.
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4
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Takahashi K, Iida T, Ishida S, Crawford B, Sakai Y, Mochizuki A, Tsujiuchi R, Tanaka S, Imai K. Effectiveness of Current Treatments for Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Japan: A Systematic Review and Pooled Data Analysis. Clin Ophthalmol 2022; 16:531-540. [PMID: 35250261 PMCID: PMC8888332 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s345403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We conducted a systematic review to investigate the effectiveness of clinical treatments for wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) in Japanese patients in the decade since anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies were introduced. Methods PubMed was searched for articles published in English between 1 January 2008 and 30 September 2018 using a multistring search strategy. Reviews were scanned for additional relevant studies and select gray literature was evaluated. Mean and/or median for the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity (VA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and the number of injections after 12 months of treatment were calculated using extracted data. Data were stratified by disease type and treatment modality. Results Of 335 studies identified, 94 were selected for data extraction (147 treatment arms; typical AMD, n = 25; polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy [PCV], n = 85). Mean (median) logMAR VA was 0.44 (0.32) for typical AMD and 0.34 (0.31) for PCV; the respective mean number of anti-VEGF injections was 5.6 and 4.6. The mean CRT was approximately 220 μm for both groups. For typical AMD, anti-VEGF monotherapy resulted in better VA outcomes than photodynamic therapy (PDT) alone. For PCV, anti-VEGF monotherapy or anti-VEGF plus PDT combination therapy resulted in better VA and CRT outcomes than PDT monotherapy. Combination therapy required fewer injections than anti-VEGF monotherapy (PCV, 3.2 versus 5.3). Conclusion wAMD treatment has advanced dramatically in the years since anti-VEGF drugs were introduced in Japan. Discrete patient populations may benefit from differing management regimens, including the fewer injections required with combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanji Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Iida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Susumu Ishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Yoko Sakai
- Syneos Health Clinical K.K., Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akikazu Mochizuki
- Novartis Pharma K.K., Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Correspondence: Akikazu Mochizuki, Novartis Pharma K.K., 23-1, Toranomon 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan, Tel +81 3 6899 8000, Fax +81 3 6257 3634, Email
| | | | | | - Kota Imai
- Novartis Pharma K.K., Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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5
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Jemni-Damer N, Guedan-Duran A, Fuentes-Andion M, Serrano-Bengoechea N, Alfageme-Lopez N, Armada-Maresca F, Guinea GV, Pérez-Rigueiro J, Rojo F, Gonzalez-Nieto D, Kaplan DL, Panetsos F. Biotechnology and Biomaterial-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Part I: Biomaterials-Based Drug Delivery Devices. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:549089. [PMID: 33224926 PMCID: PMC7670958 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.549089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an up-to-date untreatable chronic neurodegenerative eye disease of multifactorial origin, and the main causes of blindness in over 65 years old people. It is characterized by a slow progression and the presence of a multitude of factors, highlighting those related to diet, genetic heritage and environmental conditions, present throughout each of the stages of the illness. Current therapeutic approaches, mainly consisting of intraocular drug delivery, are only used for symptoms relief and/or to decelerate the progression of the disease. Furthermore, they are overly simplistic and ignore the complexity of the disease and the enormous differences in the symptomatology between patients. Due to the wide impact of the AMD and the up-to-date absence of clinical solutions, the development of biomaterials-based approaches for a personalized and controlled delivery of therapeutic drugs and biomolecules represents the main challenge for the defeat of this neurodegenerative disease. Here we present a critical review of the available and under development AMD therapeutic approaches, from a biomaterials and biotechnological point of view. We highlight benefits and limitations and we forecast forthcoming alternatives based on novel biomaterials and biotechnology methods. In the first part we expose the physiological and clinical aspects of the disease, focusing on the multiple factors that give origin to the disorder and highlighting the contribution of these factors to the triggering of each step of the disease. Then we analyze available and under development biomaterials-based drug-delivery devices (DDD), taking into account the anatomical and functional characteristics of the healthy and ill retinal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahla Jemni-Damer
- Neuro-Computing and Neuro-Robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Atocha Guedan-Duran
- Neuro-Computing and Neuro-Robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - María Fuentes-Andion
- Neuro-Computing and Neuro-Robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nora Serrano-Bengoechea
- Neuro-Computing and Neuro-Robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.,Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Alfageme-Lopez
- Neuro-Computing and Neuro-Robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.,Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Gustavo V Guinea
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Material Science, Civil Engineering Superior School, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - José Pérez-Rigueiro
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Material Science, Civil Engineering Superior School, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Rojo
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Material Science, Civil Engineering Superior School, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Gonzalez-Nieto
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain.,Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - Fivos Panetsos
- Neuro-Computing and Neuro-Robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.,Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
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6
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Alves CH, Fernandes R, Santiago AR, Ambrósio AF. Microglia Contribution to the Regulation of the Retinal and Choroidal Vasculature in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051217. [PMID: 32423062 PMCID: PMC7290930 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is a highly metabolically active tissue with high-level consumption of nutrients and oxygen. This high metabolic demand requires a properly developed and maintained vascular system. The retina is nourished by two systems: the central retinal artery that supplies the inner retina and the choriocapillaris that supplies the outer retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Pathological neovascularization, characterized by endothelial cell proliferation and new vessel formation, is a common hallmark in several retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A limited number of studies have suggested that microglia, the resident immune cells of the retina, have an important role not only in the pathology but also in the formation and physiology of the retinal vascular system. Here, we review the current knowledge on microglial interaction with the retinal vascular system under physiological and pathological conditions. To do so, we first highlight the role of microglial cells in the formation and maintenance of the retinal vasculature system. Thereafter, we discuss the molecular signaling mechanisms through which microglial cells contribute to the alterations in retinal and choroidal vasculatures and to the neovascularization in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Henrique Alves
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Fernandes
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Raquel Santiago
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Francisco Ambrósio
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-239-480093
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7
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Mammadzada P, Corredoira PM, André H. The role of hypoxia-inducible factors in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a gene therapy perspective. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:819-833. [PMID: 31893312 PMCID: PMC7058677 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03422-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms that underlie age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has led to the identification of key molecules. Hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs) have been associated with choroidal neovascularization and the progression of AMD into the neovascular clinical phenotype (nAMD). HIFs regulate the expression of multiple growth factors and cytokines involved in angiogenesis and inflammation, hallmarks of nAMD. This knowledge has propelled the development of a new group of therapeutic strategies focused on gene therapy. The present review provides an update on current gene therapies in ocular angiogenesis, particularly nAMD, from both basic and clinical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parviz Mammadzada
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pablo M Corredoira
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helder André
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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8
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Kaya C, Zandi S, Pfister IB, Gerhardt C, Garweg JG. Adding a Corticosteroid or Switching to Another Anti-VEGF in Insufficiently Responsive Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Clin Ophthalmol 2019; 13:2403-2409. [PMID: 31824134 PMCID: PMC6901048 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s224456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare the effect of adding a corticosteroid or switching to another anti-VEGF treatment in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (eAMD) with persisting intraretinal fluid on anti-VEGF monotherapy. Methods This retrospective, interventional case series involved 43 pseudophakic eyes with eAMD and persistent intraretinal fluid on anti-VEGF treatment that switched treatment to a combination of Ozurdex® or Triamcinolone and anti-VEGF therapy (group 1) or to another anti-VEGF agent (group 2). The number of injections, time to re-injection, change in central retinal thickness (CRT), and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from 12 months prior to 12 months after switch to third-line therapy were defined as primary outcomes. Results Whereas the treatment demand was reduced (from 8.8±2.2 to 4.6±2.9 injections; p=0.001) and the re-injection interval extended in group 1 (from 1.5±0.4 months to 4.4±3.8 months; p=0.001), these parameters did not change in group 2 (7.4±1.6 to 7.3±2.2; p=0.90 and 1.7±0.3 months to 1.9±0.8 months; p=0.75). Mean CRT decreased from 455.7±30.1 and 427.6±36.0µm (groups 1 and 2, respectively) to 359.1±38.2 and 303.1±44.4µm (intergroup p=0.03). The mean baseline BCVA of 62.6±3.8 letters (group 1) and 63.0±1.9 letters (group 2) remained stable under therapy in both groups (intergroup p=0.67). Conclusion In eyes with eAMD with persistent intraretinal fluid on anti-VEGF monotherapy despite frequent re-injections, corticosteroids achieved a similar functional and morphological outcome over 12 months as switching to another anti-VEGF therapy, but with a reduced injection burden. In selected cases, corticosteroid treatment may thus be an option for third-line therapy in refractory exudative AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cagdas Kaya
- Swiss Eye Institute, Rotkreuz, and Berner Augenklinik am Lindenhofspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Souska Zandi
- Swiss Eye Institute, Rotkreuz, and Berner Augenklinik am Lindenhofspital, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Isabel B Pfister
- Swiss Eye Institute, Rotkreuz, and Berner Augenklinik am Lindenhofspital, Bern, Switzerland.,Department Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christin Gerhardt
- Swiss Eye Institute, Rotkreuz, and Berner Augenklinik am Lindenhofspital, Bern, Switzerland.,Department Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Justus G Garweg
- Swiss Eye Institute, Rotkreuz, and Berner Augenklinik am Lindenhofspital, Bern, Switzerland.,Department Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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9
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Szatmári-Tóth M, Ilmarinen T, Mikhailova A, Skottman H, Kauppinen A, Kaarniranta K, Kristóf E, Lytvynchuk L, Veréb Z, Fésüs L, Petrovski G. Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium-Role in Dead Cell Clearance and Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040926. [PMID: 30791639 PMCID: PMC6412543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Inefficient removal of dying retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells by professional phagocytes can result in debris formation and development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Chronic oxidative stress and inflammation play an important role in AMD pathogenesis. Only a few well-established in vitro phagocytosis assay models exist. We propose human embryonic stem cell-derived-RPE cells as a new model for studying RPE cell removal by professional phagocytes. The characteristics of human embryonic stem cells-derived RPE (hESC-RPE) are similar to native RPEs based on their gene and protein expression profile, integrity, and barrier properties or regarding drug transport. However, no data exist about RPE death modalities and how efficiently dying hESC-RPEs are taken upby macrophages, and whether this process triggers an inflammatory responses. This study demonstrates hESC-RPEs can be induced to undergo anoikis or autophagy-associated cell death due to extracellular matrix detachment or serum deprivation and hydrogen-peroxide co-treatment, respectively, similar to primary human RPEs. Dying hESC-RPEs are efficiently engulfed by macrophages which results in high amounts of IL-6 and IL-8 cytokine release. These findings suggest that the clearance of anoikic and autophagy-associated dying hESC-RPEs can be used as a new model for investigating AMD pathogenesis or for testing the in vivo potential of these cells in stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária Szatmári-Tóth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Alexandra Mikhailova
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Heli Skottman
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Anu Kauppinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70029 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Endre Kristóf
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Eye Clinic, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Campus Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Zoltán Veréb
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - László Fésüs
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary.
- Center for Eye Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, 0450 Oslo, Norway.
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10
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Shatz W, Aaronson J, Yohe S, Kelley RF, Kalia YN. Strategies for modifying drug residence time and ocular bioavailability to decrease treatment frequency for back of the eye diseases. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2018; 16:43-57. [PMID: 30488721 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2019.1553953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treating posterior eye diseases has become a major area of focus for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Current standard of care for treating posterior eye diseases relies on administration via intravitreal injection. Although effective, this is not without complications and there is great incentive to develop longer-acting therapeutics and/or sustained release delivery systems. Here, we present an overview of emerging technologies for delivery of biologics to the back of the eye. AREAS COVERED Posterior eye diseases, intravitreal injection, age-related macular degeneration, anti-VEGF, ocular pharmacokinetics, novel technologies to extend half-life, in vivo models, translation to the clinic, and hurdles to effective patient care. EXPERT OPINION Posterior eye diseases are a worldwide public health issue. Although anti-VEGF molecules represent a major advance for treating diseases involving choroidal neovascularization, frequent injection can be burdensome for patients and clinicians. There is a need for effective and patient-friendly treatments for posterior eye diseases. Many technologies that enable long-acting delivery to the back of the eye are being evaluated. However, successful development of novel therapies and delivery technologies is hampered by a multitude of factors, including patient education, translatability of in vitro/in vivo preclinical data to the clinic, and regulatory challenges associated with novel technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Shatz
- a Department of Protein Chemistry , Genentech , South San Francisco , CA , USA.,b School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Geneva & University of Lausanne , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Jeffrey Aaronson
- c Department of Drug Delivery , Genentech , South San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Stefan Yohe
- c Department of Drug Delivery , Genentech , South San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Robert F Kelley
- c Department of Drug Delivery , Genentech , South San Francisco , CA , USA
| | - Yogeshvar N Kalia
- b School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Geneva & University of Lausanne , Geneva , Switzerland
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Mandal A, Pal D, Agrahari V, Trinh HM, Joseph M, Mitra AK. Ocular delivery of proteins and peptides: Challenges and novel formulation approaches. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2018; 126:67-95. [PMID: 29339145 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The impact of proteins and peptides on the treatment of various conditions including ocular diseases over the past few decades has been advanced by substantial breakthroughs in structural biochemistry, genetic engineering, formulation and delivery approaches. Formulation and delivery of proteins and peptides, such as monoclonal antibodies, aptamers, recombinant proteins and peptides to ocular tissues poses significant challenges owing to their large size, poor permeation and susceptibility to degradation. A wide range of advanced drug delivery systems including polymeric controlled release systems, cell-based delivery and nanowafers are being exploited to overcome the challenges of frequent administration to ocular tissues. The next generation systems integrated with new delivery technologies are anticipated to generate improved efficacy and safety through the expansion of the therapeutic target space. This review will highlight recent advances in formulation and delivery strategies of protein and peptide based biopharmaceuticals. We will also describe the current state of proteins and peptides based ocular therapy and future therapeutic opportunities.
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ROLE OF ADDITIONAL DEXAMETHASONE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF PERSISTENT OR RECURRENT NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION UNDER RANIBIZUMAB TREATMENT. Retina 2017; 37:962-970. [PMID: 27575409 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000001264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the efficacy of a combination therapy of intravitreal ranibizumab together with a dexamethasone implant in comparison with ranibizumab monotherapy in neovascular age-related macular degeneration. METHODS Forty eyes of recurrent or persistent neovascular age-related macular degeneration were included in this prospective study. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups. Based on a pro re nata treatment regimen, the first group received intravitreal ranibizumab monotherapy (IVM). The second group received a combination of intravitreal dexamethasone implant and ranibizumab (intravitreal combination [IVC]) at baseline and was retreated with ranibizumab as needed. A second dexamethasone implant was allowed for retreatment after at least 6 months. Retreatment criteria included evidence of subretinal fluid, cystoid macular edema or new hemorrhage, and/or a visual acuity decrease of 5 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters. RESULTS During 12 months, a mean of 7.95/5.5 (IVM/IVC; P = 0.042) retreatments were given. The median time until first retreatment differed significantly between the groups (P = 0.004). Functional variables could be maintained in both groups with no differences between them. Visual acuity changed from 62 letters at baseline to 67 at Month 12 in the IVM and remained stable at 68 letters in the IVC group (P = 0.68); macular sensitivity changed from 6.95 dB to 7.01 dB in IVM and from 7.24 dB to 7.12 dB in IVC (P = 0.4). Central retinal thickness decreased, however, with no difference between the groups (P = 0.38). In the IVM/IVC group, 11/12 (55/60%) patients were phakic at the time of study entry. One (9%) patient from the IVM and 4 (33%) from the IVC group were referred to cataract surgery after study completion (P = 0.4). CONCLUSION This pilot study indicates combined therapy to delay retreatment in patients with persistent/recurrent neovascular age-related macular degeneration and an overall reduction in required ranibizumab retreatments compared with ranibizumab monotherapy with consistent functional outcomes.
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Teh BL, Megaw R, Borooah S, Dhillon B. Optimizing cataract surgery in patients with age-related macular degeneration. Surv Ophthalmol 2016; 62:346-356. [PMID: 28012877 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of visual impairment. The development of cataract in AMD patients poses challenges in assessing timing of surgery, predicting potential benefit to the patient of surgery, and predicting short- and long-term effects of surgery on progression of their AMD. Although traditional cataract surgery remains the mainstay of treatment, recently several devices have been developed to address the specific needs of AMD patients with cataract. We look at the associations between cataract and AMD and outline the treatment approaches to cataract surgery in AMD, looking at the potential benefits and risks of both traditional approaches and newer devices. We provide clinicians treating patients with AMD and cataract with a framework for choosing the appropriate management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roly Megaw
- Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Baljean Dhillon
- Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Radhakrishnan K, Sonali N, Moreno M, Nirmal J, Fernandez AA, Venkatraman S, Agrawal R. Protein delivery to the back of the eye: barriers, carriers and stability of anti-VEGF proteins. Drug Discov Today 2016; 22:416-423. [PMID: 27818255 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2016.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Utilization of the full clinical potential of many novel therapeutic proteins designed for diseases affecting the posterior segment of the eye has often been limited because of their inherent instability and the difficulty in overcoming various ocular barriers. Intravitreal injection is currently the only approved mode of administration, although it is suboptimal because it is painful and has to be done every 1-2 months as a result of high protein clearance rates from the vitreous humor. In this review, we discuss the status of protein drug delivery to back of the eye in terms of novel protein drugs developed, physiological barriers encountered, strategies for carrier design to overcome these limitations, and protein stability. We focus on the most promising approaches as well as on current shortcomings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Radhakrishnan
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
| | - Nirmal Sonali
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Miguel Moreno
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Jayabalan Nirmal
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Alexandra A Fernandez
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Subbu Venkatraman
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Rupesh Agrawal
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore.
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Dibas A, Yorio T. Glucocorticoid therapy and ocular hypertension. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 787:57-71. [PMID: 27388141 PMCID: PMC5014726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The projected number of people who will develop age-related macular degeneration in estimated at 2020 is 196 million and is expected to reach 288 million in 2040. Also, the number of people with Diabetic retinopathy will grow from 126.6 million in 2010 to 191.0 million by 2030. In addition, it is estimated that there are 2.3 million people suffering from uveitis worldwide. Because of the anti-inflammatory properties of glucocorticoids (GCs), they are often used topically and/or intravitreally to treat ocular inflammation conditions or edema associated with macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Unfortunately, ocular GC therapy can lead to severe side effects. Serious and sometimes irreversible eye damage can occur as a result of the development of GC-induced ocular hypertension causing secondary open-angle glaucoma. According to the world health organization, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world and it is estimated that 80 million will suffer from glaucoma by 2020. In the current review, mechanisms of GC-induced damage in ocular tissue, GC-resistance, and enhancing GC therapy will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Dibas
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, UNT Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA.
| | - Thomas Yorio
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, UNT Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
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Villegas VM, Aranguren LA, Kovach JL, Schwartz SG, Flynn HW. Current advances in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2016; 14:273-282. [PMID: 27434329 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2016.1213240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of permanent central visual acuity loss in persons over 65 years of age in industrialized nations. Today, intravitreal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors are the mainstay of treatment worldwide. Areas covered: The following review covers the current treatments and challenges of wet AMD management. It also covers emerging therapies including radiation, latest generation anti-VEGF agents, and combination therapies. Expert opinion: Current neovascular AMD therapy is aimed at decreasing the VEGF effect at the choroidal neovascularization (CNV) complex. The most important existing challenges in the treatment of neovascular AMD are improving visual outcomes, decreasing the treatment burden, and minimizing geographic atrophy. Clinicians are using many treatment strategies to minimize intravitreal injections without sacrificing visual outcomes. Combination of anti-VEGF therapy with other previously available treatments that target a different pathophysiological mechanism may be a reasonable clinical strategy to minimize intravitreal injections. Many exciting novel drugs that target newly discovered pathways associated with CNV development and progression hold clinical promise. The results of ongoing randomized clinical trials will answer the important concerns surrounding new drugs and delivery devices: safety and visual outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M Villegas
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute , University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami , FL , USA
| | - Luis A Aranguren
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute , University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami , FL , USA
| | - Jaclyn L Kovach
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute , University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami , FL , USA
| | - Stephen G Schwartz
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute , University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami , FL , USA
| | - Harry W Flynn
- a Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute , University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami , FL , USA
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