New research highlights need for tailored treatments in neurotrophic keratitis

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Corneal nerve regeneration varies significantly depending on the type of injury, highlighting the need for injury-specific treatments to effectively manage neurotrophic keratitis and related nerve damage, according to a study.

Researchers compared 2 types of clinically relevant corneal injuries (axotomy and epithelial abrasion). They found that axotomy caused delayed nerve regrowth and impaired epithelial stability, increasing the risk of severe corneal damage. In contrast, epithelial abrasion led to faster but abnormal nerve recovery. Importantly, the molecular pathways activated during healing differed based on the type of injury.

These findings underscore the need for tailored treatment strategies in neurotrophic keratitis and other peripheral neuropathies.

Reference
Meneux L, Pernot S, Feret N, et al. Injury-specific pathways shape corneal nerve regeneration dynamics. Sci Rep. 2025;15(1):25755. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-10434-y. PMID: 40670590; PMCID: PMC12267522.