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Review The topical application of nerve growth factor as a pharmacological tool for human corneal and skin ulcers. 2008
Aloe L, Tirassa P, Lambiase A. · Institute of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, NGF Section, National Research Council (CNR), 00413 Rome, Italy. · Pharmacol Res. · Pubmed #18329283 No free full text.
Abstract: AIM: The nerve growth factor is a soluble protein produced by and acting upon a number of different cells located in the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. Recent studies have shown that nerve growth factor (NGF) exerts a critical role on epithelial cells and fibroblasts under normal and pathological conditions. In this review, we present data prospecting the clinical potentiality of NGF in cutaneous and ocular "non-healing" chronic ulcers. DATA SYNTHESIS: A consistent number of in vitro and in vivo studies carried out on animal models and in humans indicated that fibroblasts and epithelial cells are receptive to the action of NGF and that NGF promotes skin and cornea ulcer healing. These observations lead to the hypothesis that NGF can be a potential useful pharmacological agent for clinical investigations. CONCLUSION: The available clinical evidences suggest that the topical application of NGF promotes healing action without side effects on corneal and cutaneous tissues damaged by chemical, physical and surgical insults and autoimmune disorders.
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Review Nerve growth factor in neurological and non-neurological diseases: basic findings and emerging pharmacological prospectives. 2001
Aloe L, Tirassa P, Bracci-Laudiero L. · Institute of Neurobiology, CNR, Viale Marx 15, 00137 Rome, Italy. · Curr Pharm Des. · Pubmed #11172703 No free full text.
Abstract: Nerve growth factor (NGF) is known to be essential for the survival of peripheral and brain neurons, and according to more recent studies also for a variety of cells localized in the immune system. Basic and preclinical findings published in the last 15-20 years have prospected the hypothesis that NGF can be pharmaceutically useful for promoting healing in certain peripheral and central neurological insults. We have recently provided evidence that NGF applied topically, has a therapeutic potentiality for human corneal and pressure ulcers, and more recently in vasculitis induced by rheumatoid arthritis. This review will summarize previous and ongoing evidence supporting the role of NGF in the nervous and immune system and discuss NGF potentiality as a pharmacological tool for basic and clinical studies.
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