Dive Brief:
- In 2012, Dompé acquired the Italian biotech Anabasis, which has substantial expertise in recombinant human neurotrophic growth factor (rhNGF).
- Recombinant human NGF is the only recombinant human variant of NGF that can be used to treat eye diseases, according to Pharma Times.
- Neurotrophic keratitis is a degenerative corneal disease that affects approximately 5,000 Americans aged 50 and older.
Dive Insight:
Dompé CEO Eugenio Aringhieri is optimistic about the ability of rhNGF to advance further in clinical trials. Phase I studies demonstrated strong efficacy, safety, and tolerability profiles for rhNGF, with improvements in blurred vision, burning, foreign body sensation, itching, and photophobia.
Moreover, complete closure of the corneal wound was observed in 73% of neurotrophic keratitis patients treated with rhNGF. The treatment has already won FDA orphan drug designation and is currently awaiting similar status in the EU. Aringhieri’s long-term view is that rhNGF will eventually be used to treat a variety of eye disorders, including dry eye disease and glaucoma.