neltependocel

Neltependocel is an allogeneic cell therapy consisting of fully differentiated human corneal endothelial cells, developed for the treatment of diseases affecting the corneal endothelium. It is administered as a one-time intracameral injection into the eye and is designed to restore vision in patients with conditions such as bullous keratopathy and other forms of corneal endothelial dysfunction. Neltependocel works by replacing damaged or lost endothelial cells, thereby restoring normal fluid balance and clarity to the cornea. The product has been approved in Japan (as Vyznova) for bullous keratopathy, marking it as the world’s first approved allogeneic cell therapy for this indication. In clinical trials (notably AURN001), neltependocel has also been studied in combination with Y-27632, a Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) inhibitor that enhances cell engraftment and survival[3][5][7]. The mechanism of action involves direct replacement of dysfunctional or absent endothelial cells; when combined with ROCK inhibition, it further promotes cellular adhesion and proliferation within the recipient’s eye[1][4][7].

Brand names

Vyznova

Other names

human corneal endothelial cell therapyallogeneic corneal endothelial cells derived from human corneal tissue (Descemet's membrane)