Reversal of Diabetic Dry Eye by Topical Opioid Receptor Blockade Follows Dual Pathways.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To determine pathways in the trigeminal ganglion and corneal epithelium that are targeted by topical naltrexone (NTX) treatment for dry eye.

Methods

NTX drops were administered topically daily for 15 days to the corneal surface of male and female adult type 1 diabetic rats. Schirmer scores and corneal sensitivity were measured at baseline, 5, 10, and 15 days. Trigeminal ganglion and corneal epithelium were processed for immunohistochemistry to detect expression of opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr), Ki67, nerve growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-1, calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P, and TNF-α. A proteomic study determined protein changes in the cornea.

Results

Corneal sensitivity and tear production in diabetic rats were restored to normal

SUBMITTER: Diaz D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11905607 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature