TARGETED THERAPIES IN EYE DISEASES: ADVANCES IN PRECISION OPHTHALMOLOGY
Main Article Content
Keywords
Eye diseases, targeted therapy, anti-VEGF, gene therapy, neuroprotection, immunomodulation, precision medicine, ophthalmology
Abstract
Eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and inherited retinal disorders, are major causes of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. Traditional therapies often provide limited efficacy and carry systemic or local side effects. Recent advances in molecular biology and pharmacology have enabled the development of targeted therapies, which act on specific disease mechanisms, offering improved outcomes and personalized treatment strategies.
Methodology: A comprehensive literature review was conducted focusing on molecular mechanisms underlying common ocular disorders and the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for studies on anti-VEGF therapy, gene therapy, neuroprotective agents, immunomodulatory drugs, and nanotechnology-based ocular drug delivery. Selected studies were analyzed for efficacy, safety, and clinical outcomes.
Results: Targeted therapies demonstrated significant clinical benefits across multiple eye disorders. Anti-VEGF agents improved visual acuity and reduced neovascularization in AMD and diabetic macular edema. Gene therapy successfully restored partial vision in inherited retinal diseases like Leber congenital amaurosis. Neuroprotective and immunomodulatory agents preserved retinal function in glaucoma and uveitis, respectively. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery enhanced bioavailability and reduced treatment frequency. Overall, these therapies showed superior efficacy compared to conventional treatments with a reduced side-effect profile.
Conclusion: Targeted medicine represents a transformative approach in ophthalmology, enabling precise, mechanism-based interventions that improve patient outcomes while minimizing systemic effects. Continued research in gene therapy, molecular pharmacology, and advanced drug delivery systems holds promise for the development of more effective and personalized ocular treatments.
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Aaiza Tahir
Classified Eye Specialist, FCPS, MRCS(Ophth, UK), PAC Hospital Kamra, Pakistan
Adnan Khan
Assistant Professor, Eye Department, Abbottabad International Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan
Arooj Zahid
Senior Registrar, Abbottabad International Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan
Rehana Rasool
MBBS, MPH, Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Abbottabad International Medical College, Abbottabad
Anwar Shahzad
Associate Professor, Community Medicine, Abbottabad International Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan
Ifrah Batool
Optometrist, Ophthalmology, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Hospital Kamra, Pakistan
