OKYO Pharma Announces First Patient Dosed in the First Clinical Trial to Treat Neuropathic Corneal Pain

Core Insights - OKYO Pharma Limited has initiated a Phase 2 clinical trial for OK-101, the first drug candidate specifically targeting Neuropathic Corneal Pain (NCP) [1][4] - The trial is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-masked study involving 48 patients diagnosed with NCP [1][4] - OK-101 is the first Investigational New Drug (IND) granted by the FDA for treating NCP, a condition currently lacking FDA-approved therapies [1][2] Company Overview - OKYO Pharma Limited is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies for dry eye disease (DED) and NCP, with shares traded on NASDAQ [7] - The company aims to discover and develop novel molecules to treat inflammatory DED and ocular pain [7] Clinical Trial Details - The Phase 2 trial is designed as a single-center study led by Dr. Pedram Hamrah from Tufts Medical Center, a recognized expert in NCP [3] - The trial will last for 12 weeks, with patient enrollment confirmed through confocal microscopy [1][3] Drug Mechanism and Development - OK-101 is a lipid-conjugated chemerin peptide agonist targeting the ChemR23 G-protein coupled receptor, which is involved in the inflammatory response in the eye [6] - The drug has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing effects in preclinical models, indicating its potential efficacy for treating NCP [6] Unmet Medical Need - NCP is characterized by debilitating eye pain and sensitivity, often resulting from nerve damage, with current management options providing only partial relief [2][5] - There is a significant unmet need for effective therapies for NCP, highlighting the importance of the ongoing clinical trial for OK-101 [4][5]