Link_TSG6 for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

Article: Promising novel treatment for Dry Eye Disease revealed by new research
Source: University of Manchester (U.K.)
Published: January 13, 2022

Link_TSF6 compared with Restasis in an 
autoimmune (top) and environmental (bottom)
mouse model of dry eye disease

Characterized by the loss of homeostasis of the eye’s tear film and a vicious cycle of corneal epithelial damage and inflammation, dry eye disease (DED) is estimated to affect 350 million people worldwide. Symptoms include persistent eye irritation, blurred vision, and decreased quality of life. Researchers in the U.K. and South Korea are investigating a novel protein biological drug, Link_TSG6 (comprising the Link module of human TNF-stimulated gene/protein-6), in the treatment of DED. In a new study, they tested the drug on two mouse models of DED: an autoimmune model where mice spontaneously develop dry eye disease, and a desiccating stress model that mimics DED caused by environmental factors. They report, "Results from the study showed that topically administered Link_TSG6 (e.g., twice a day for 7 days) dose-dependently reduced corneal epithelial defects and suppressed inflammatory markers while increasing tear production and conjunctival goblet cell density. At the highest Link_TSG6 dose, no corneal lesions remained in approximately 50% of treated eyes. In addition, Link_TSG6 was significantly more effective than Restasis, the market leading treatment, at reducing corneal epithelial erosions and reducing inflammation." In particular, Link_TSG6 suppresses inflammatory cytokines on the ocular surface and inhibits the infiltration of Th1 and Th17 immune cells into the lacrimal glands and lymph nodes. The researchers are encouraged by the preclinical data and look to further the progress of their work in human clinical trials, stating, "The publishing of this research is a major accomplishment in our journey towards finding an effective treatment for Dry Eye Disease, which could improve the lives of millions around the world."

My rating of this study: ⭐⭐

Oh JY, Ryub JS, Kim HJ, et al. "The Link module of human TSG-6 (Link_TSG6) promotes wound healing, suppresses inflammation and improves glandular function in mouse models of Dry Eye Disease." The Ocular Surface.  24:40-50. April 2022. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtos.2021.12.012