Multiple endogenous growth factor, neurotrophic factor, and tear component receptors

The term Multiple endogenous growth factor, neurotrophic factor, and tear component receptors refers to a heterogeneous collection of receptors located on the ocular surface and lacrimal apparatus that mediate the biological effects of natural tears. This group includes high-affinity receptors such as the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), Nerve Growth Factor receptors (TrkA and p75NTR), and various receptors for mucins, lipids, and proteins essential for corneal health (Pflugfelder et al., 2020, Experimental Eye Research). These receptors are the physiological targets of the complex mixture of substances found in natural tears, which are stimulated by drugs like varenicline (Tyrvaya) via the trigeminal parasympathetic pathway (Tyrvaya Prescribing Information). Additionally, specific receptors within this group are targeted by recombinant therapies such as cenegermin (Oxervate) to treat neurotrophic keratitis by promoting epithelial healing and corneal sensitivity (Oxervate Prescribing Information). Because this name describes a functional assembly of multiple distinct molecular entities rather than a single protein or well-defined complex, it is not considered a canonical therapeutic target in pharmacological nomenclature. Instead, it serves as a descriptive category for the multi-modal signaling pathways involved in maintaining ocular surface homeostasis and treating dry eye disease.

Other names

Tear film receptorsOcular surface growth factor receptorsNeurotrophic factor receptorsNatural tear component receptors

Activation of multiple signaling pathways on the ocular surface occurs through the endogenous release of natural tear film components (stimulated by varenicline via the trigeminal nerve) or the exogenous application of specific growth factors (like cenegermin), leading to downstream signaling for ocular surface repair, lubrication, and nerve maintenance.