Another Dry Eye Drop on the Horizon?

HOT TOPIC

Okyo Pharma has completed enrollment in phase 2 clinical trials of OK-101, which has pre-specified primary efficacy endpoints addressing signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.

A total of 240 patients have been enrolled in the study; Okyo is anticipating the final patient visit to occur in the last week of November, with the planned release of top-line data to occur in December.

What is OK-101? According to Okyo, “OK-101 is a lipid conjugated chemerin peptide agonist of the ChemR23 G-protein coupled receptor, which is typically found on immune cells of the eye responsible for the inflammatory response.” OK-101 has been shown to produce antiinflammatory and pain-reducing activities in mouse models of dry eye disease and corneal neuropathic pain, Okyo noted.

My Two Cents

According to the company, this drop could be “pain-reducing” and be indicated for corneal neuropathic pain. In my clinic, this would be a game-changer, as I have numerous patients who fall into the category of “pain without stain” and have responded to very few, if any other treatments. I’ll be following the development of this drop very carefully.

OUTSIDE THE LANE

Evolution in Action: Light Pollution Affecting Bird Eye Size

Fascinating new research has found that the bright lights of big cities could be causing an evolutionary adaptation in bird populations, resulting in smaller eyes. The study profiles research on two common songbird species in San Antonio, Texas. The birds living in the city center had smaller eyes than those living on the outskirts, suggesting that the birds may be adapting to the brighter lights of the city (ie, light pollution). The researchers also found that migratory bird species did not show this difference in eye size, suggesting that the adaptation may be specific to birds that live in urban areas year-round.

The researchers believe that the smaller eye size may help the birds cope with the city's brighter and more constant light. However, they are not sure if this adaptation will have any positive or negative consequences for the birds in the long term.

Some experts have suggested that the smaller eye size could make it more difficult for the birds to see predators and prey. Others have suggested it could lead to problems with vision, such as cataracts. Additional research is needed to confirm these concerns.

The study's findings are significant because they suggest urban light pollution has a measurable effect on bird evolution. This is a reminder that light pollution is a severe problem and can negatively affect wildlife. (Read more here.)

My Two Cents

One of the most compelling facts put forth in the article is how other research has shown that the United States and Canada have lost ~29% of their bird populations (or 3 billion birds) since 1970. These data are shocking, but not surprising to me, as we know that humans have a significant impact on our environment. It will be curious to see if further studies prove that birds' eyes are getting smaller in other parts of the world.

CAN YOU RELATE

We’ve entered “convention season” in the optometric profession. Sure, there are incredible conventions throughout the year; however, fall seems busiest to me. Earlier this month, I attended MOD Live, and, as I mentioned, this boutique meeting is one of my favorites. Its intimate setting, highly engaging talks, and no-nonsense lectures make it a must-attend for me each year. Next on the calendar is Vision Expo West, and although I won’t be in Las Vegas for this year’s meeting, it’s one of the biggest and best in our profession. It’s where eye care and eye wear meet in an incredible locale, and it’s many of my friends’ favorite conventions!

Following VEW is the American Academy of Optometry meeting, which takes place down in my area, New Orleans, this year! Academy is wonderful because there is such a wide variety of CE to attain, so no matter what your optometric interest, there’s something for you. To anyone heading down to NOLA who wants some insider information on experiencing “The Big Easy” the best way: Shoot me a message on LinkedIn or via email at: JDavidson@weceye.com!

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Translation: Let the good times roll!