Bonelli F, Demirsoy I, Lasagni Vitar RM, Fonteyne P, Ferrari G. Topical formulations of Aprepitant are safe and effective in relieving pain and inflammation, and drive neural regeneration.
Ocul Surf 2023;
30:92-103. [PMID:
37690516 DOI:
10.1016/j.jtos.2023.09.004]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE
To test long-term ocular toxicity and analgesic/anti-inflammatory efficacy of two novel ocular formulations of neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R) antagonist Aprepitant.
METHODS
for toxicity studies, two Aprepitant formulations (X and Y) were tested on C57BL/6 N mice. Gold standards were 0.4% Oxybuprocaine, 0.1% Diclofenac, or saline. For efficacy studies, C57BL/6 N mice underwent corneal alkali burn, and then received Aprepitant formulation X, Dexamethasone or saline. Eye-drops were applied 3 times/day for 90 days (toxicity) and 14 days (efficacy). Stromal opacity, corneal epithelial damage, nociception and sensitivity were assessed in vivo. The eye-wiping test and corneal sensitivity were assessed to evaluate analgesic efficacy and nerve function. At the end of the experiments mice were euthanized, and corneas were dissected for immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analyses.
RESULTS
In normal mice, formulation X was not toxic when topically administered for 90 days. Formulation Y was associated with increased leukocyte infiltration in the cornea (p < 0.001). X1 and X2 formulations significantly reduced corneal pain, as Diclofenac and Oxybuprocaine, but did not reduce corneal sensitivity. Formulation Y, instead, was not analgesic at any time point. In the alkali burn model, X1 and X2 formulation enhanced epithelial damage recovery, and reduced inflammation both at day 7 and 14. Moreover, formulation X showed a stronger analgesic effect when compared to the saline and Dexamethasone groups (p < 0.01). Finally, formulation X1 and X2 restored corneal sensitivity by promoting corneal nerve regeneration.
CONCLUSIONS
Aprepitant X formulation is a promising candidate for the treatment of pain associated with inflammation of the ocular surface.
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