A novel silk-derived protein could be a potential treatment for dry eye disease (DED), according to US authors of a study published in American Journal of Ophthalmology. 

Conducted across 26 sites, the study evaluated silk-derived protein-4 (SDP-4), also known as amlisimod, eye drops in 296 patients with moderate to severe DED. Participants were randomised into groups receiving 0.1%, 1%, or 3% concentrations of SDP-4, or vehicle only, over a 12-week period. Results showed patients using the 1% formulation experienced significant symptom relief, with improvements in tear breakup time and reduced discomfort, as measured by the symptom assessment in dry eye (SANDE) score. 

SDP-4 has the potential to be a safe and effective multi-modal solution for DED, said authors.