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- Optic Neuritis (ON)
Optic neuritis is usually characterized by unilateral or bilateral reduction of vision which is frequently associated with pain which is exacerbated by eye movement. Protheragen has developed an extensive set of services concerning the diagnostics and therapeutics of optic neuritis. Our skills include performing molecular diagnostics, therapeutic development, and providing preclinical research services.
Optic neuritis (ON) reflects inflammation of the optic nerve that results in acute vision loss usually associated with unilateral eye pain upon movement. ON is commonly seen in conjunction with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other demyelinating conditions; however, it may also develop secondary to infectious, autoimmune, or granulomatous processes. ON remains one of the leading causes of visual disturbance among the young adult population, and its significant burden on healthcare requires an in-depth understanding of its pathophysiology, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic strategies.
Fig.1 Approach to the diagnosis of acute optic neuritis (ON). (Phuljhele S., et al., 2021)
AQP4-IgG Testing: The test checks for the presence of certain antibodies which are targeted against a specific aquaporin-4 water channel protein produced by astrocytes. In the context of NMOSD, the presence of AQP4-IgG is highly specific and also assists in separating it from other types of ON like MS associated optic neuritis.
MOG-IgG Testing: Detection of antibodies directed against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein is crucial for MOG-IgG-associated optic neuritis. This subtype of ON is highly aggressive and is usually associated with extreme vision loss and marked edema of the optic disc, which requires quick and urgent interventions.
In severe or recurrent forms of ON, long-term use of immunosuppressants such as mycophenolate mofetil, rituximab, or azathioprine is warranted. These drugs adjuvantly take care of flareups and manage autoimmune disorders. For example, azathioprine has been used successfully in chronic relapsing inflammatory optic neuropathy which leads to ON episodes and vision loss over time.
Current studies focus on finding newer therapies for ON, trying out different protective agents, and targeting specific inflammatory processes. For instance, pilot studies showed that erythropoietin and simvastatin are effective for optic nerve regeneration. Moreover, there is research on antibodies to LINGO-1, an inhibitor of axonal growth, for the purpose of increasing optic nerve repair and visual results.
| Drug Name | Target | Research Stage |
| Methylprednisolone | General anti-inflammatory | Marketed |
| Prednisone | General anti-inflammatory | Marketed |
| Acthar Gel | Pituitary-adrenal axis | Marketed |
| Eculizumab | Complement system (C5) | Investigational |
| Satralizumab | Interleukin-6 receptor | Investigational |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research service. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.
We, at Protheragen, are exceedingly proud of the offering of diagnostic and therapeutic development services related to optic neuritis as it is comprehensive in its scope. We have identified and continuously engaged our leading researchers and technologically innovative experts because they are profoundly dedicated to advancing the field of ON diagnosis and therapeutics development.
At Protheragen, we appreciate the fact that every client comes with a different set of needs. This is why we have developed a full range of tailored services that meet the needs of our partners in optic neuritis research and drug development. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
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