Methods and compositions for the treatment of keratoconus using protease inhibitors

Abstract

Compositions and methods for treating corneal diseases mediated by elevated protease activity include ocular administration of protease inhibitors. One or more protease inhibitors selected from an aspartic, serine, cysteine, or metallo-protease inhibitor are administered to an ocular fluid, surface, or tissue, preferably by topical administration, to inhibit proteolytic activity associated with a corneal disease or condition, for example keratoconus. Antiproteolytic formulations of the invention may include carriers that prolong the retention and/or enhance delivery of the protease inhibitor. These formulations can also include other therapeutic agents such as antiinflammatory or antibiotic drugs. In preferred aspects of the invention, antiproteolytic formulations are administered during periods of closed eye tear production. Also provided within the invention are implant devices for corneal delivery of a protease inhibitor.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.