Current Eye Research最新文献

Purpose: To investigate the effect of the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) to the corneas and corneal nerves of rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes as well as the underlying mechanism.

Methods: In this study, male Wistar rats were first randomly divided into normal group (NL) and diabetes group (DM). After intraperitoneal injection of STZ, corneal perception, corneal fluorescein staining and the expression of P2X7R mRNA and protein in corneal tissues of NL and DM groups were detected before, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 16 weeks respectively. Then male Wistar rats were randomly divided into NL group, DM group and P2X7R inhibitor group (BBG). Start at 2 weeks after diabetes modeling, the BBG group was intraperitoneally injected with BBG every day. Corneal perception, corneal fluorescein staining, in vivo confocal microscopy, laser scanning confocal microscopy, corneal P2X7RmRNA levels, the mRNA levels of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), Nerve growth factor (NGF), Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and Growth associated protein-43(GAP-43) of corneal and trigeminal nerve were detected in the three groups at the 6th and 8th week.

Results: The mRNA and protein expression of P2X7R was significantly increased as early as 6 weeks after STZ injection and then showing a downward trend, but the corneal perception and corneal fluorescent staining continued to worse. Inhibition of P2X7R activation increased corneal sensitivity, ameliorated corneal epithelial damage, improved corneal subbasal nerve plexus density and length, increased the expression of BDNF in the trigeminal nerve and increased the expression of NPY in the corneal and trigeminal nerves.

Conclusions: The increase of P2X7R expression of diabetic rats was not synchronized with the gradually aggravated corneal injure. Inhibition of P2X7R activation can alleviate diabetes-associated corneal injury, regulate the expression of related neurotrophic factors and neuropeptides, and improve the corneal subbasal nerve plexus.

Purpose: To investigate the possible contribution of nitrosative stress, mitochondrial peptide levels (humanin and mitochondrial open-reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c), and ferroptosis parameters in corneal epithelial cells obtained from patients with keratoconus.

Methods: This prospective study was conducted on corneal epithelial cell samples taken from 75 adult patients with keratoconus and 25 age-matched postmortem controls. The Amsler-Krumeich classification was used for staging the keratoconus. All parameters, except nitric oxide, were measured by ELISA, and nitric oxide levels were determined by the chemiluminescence method.

Results: Humanin levels in keratoconus corneal epithelial cells were increased in stage 3 (p < .05), while mitochondrial open-reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c (p < .01) levels were diminished in all stages. Significant increases in nitric oxide (p < .001) and 3-nitrotyrosine (p < .05) levels were detected in the keratoconus group, indicating the involvement of nitrosative stress. In stage 3, glutathione peroxidase 4 levels were shown to be decreased (p < .01), while long-chain fatty acid CoA ligase 4 (p < .05) and malondialdehyde (p < .05) levels were increased.

Conclusion: This is the first study to show that humanin and mitochondrial open-reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c can participate in the pathophysiology of keratoconus. In addition to the mitochondrial peptides, our data suggest that increased nitrosative stress and ferroptosis may contribute to the pathophysiology of keratoconus.

Purpose: This study aims to investigate whether copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NPs) protect against fundus neovascularization diseases (FNDs) and to explore the underlying mechanism of the anti-angiogenesis.

Materials and methods: The characterization and biocompatibility of CuS NPs were assessed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and in retinas and major organs. Anti-angiogenic effects were evaluated in vitro using HUVECs through migration, sprouting, and proliferation assays. In vivo efficacy was tested in neonatal retinal vascular development, oxygen-induced retinopathy and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization mouse model. Transcriptomic analysis of CuS NPs-treated HUVECs was performed, followed by validation of key signaling pathways using real-time PCR and western blotting.

Results: Synthesized CuS NPs exhibited defined characteristics and demonstrated good biocompatibility at tested concentrations. They significantly inhibited HUVECs migration, sprouting, and proliferation. In vivo, CuS NPs attenuated retinal neovascularization and suppressed and choroidal neovascularization. Transcriptomic profiling and further validation revealed a significant downregulation of the nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway and its downstream cascades, coinciding with the observed anti-angiogenic outcomes upon CuS NPs treatment.

Conclusions: CuS NPs may act as a promising therapeutic candidate for FNDs treatment.

Purpose: The 2023 outbreak of extensively drug resistant (XDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) eye infections was linked to the use of non-preserved, multi-use artificial tears purchased online. The lack of preservatives has been attributed to be the predominant factor in the outbreak. This led us to the current study for which the goal was to determine whether common ophthalmic preservatives could eliminate the outbreak XDRPA and other PA keratitis isolates.

Materials and methods: Time-kill studies were performed in Mueller-Hinton broth (MHB) and phosphate buffered saine (PBS) on 3 PA strains including the XDRPA outbreak strain. Preservatives assessed were benzalkonium chloride (BAK) 0.04%, 0.01%, and 0.004%, Polyquaterium-1 (Polyquad) (PQ) 0.001%, Sodium Perborate (SP) 0.1%, and EDTA 0.1%. In addition, time-kill assays were performed using preserved and a non-preserved commercially-available artificial tears.

Results: BAK 0.04% and 0.01%, and PQ eliminated all PA isolates in both media after 4 h. BAK 0.004% and SP eliminated all PA strains in PBS at 1 h but did not produce bactericidal 99.9% decreases in MHB over 24 h. EDTA did not produce a bactericidal effect in either media. Artificial tears containing sorbic acid 0.25% and edetate disodium 0.1%, PQ, SP, and PURITE eliminated the PA strains within 24 h.

Conclusions: Several common preservatives were effective in eliminating PA strains including the outbreak strain CDC1270. Preservative efficacy was delayed or inhibited in rich media (MHB) compared to PBS. These results suggest that the 2023 outbreak could have been prevented by using a common preservative in the artificial tears.

Purpose: To assess if cone location and phenotype have an impact on the risk of keratoconus progression.

Methods: Retrospective multi-centric cohort study. The baseline visit was used to classify cases according to cone location (based on thinnest pachymetry and maximum keratometry, Kmax) and phenotype. Cases were further labeled as stable or progressive depending on whether they fulfilled criteria for progression throughout the follow-up. Time from baseline to progression was noted. Univariate and multivariate mixed-effects models accounted for correlations between both eyes of the same patient and adjusted for Kmax and age at baseline.

Results: A total of 423 eyes from 250 patients was included, 48.0% (n = 203) labeled as progressive. Based on the location of thinnest pachymetry and Kmax, 72.1% (n = 305) and 60.8% (n = 257) respectively were classified as central. In univariate analysis, there were significant differences between groups (p < 0.001), with central keratoconus more frequently associated with progression. However, after adjusting for Kmax and age at baseline in multivariate analysis, this association lost its statistical significance. Results were similar for cone location based on thinnest pachymetry adjusted for Kmax and age. In univariate analysis, there were significant differences between groups (p < 0.001) in the proportion of each phenotype in the stable and progressive groups, with central "nipple" keratoconus more frequently associated with progression. This was lost after adjusting for Kmax and age in multivariate analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed significant differences between phenotypes (p < 0.001), with central nipple cones progressing more rapidly.

Conclusion: Central keratoconus and central "nipple" phenotype are more frequently associated with progression, and at a higher rate, but are not independent predictors for progression beyond keratometry and age.

Purpose: To examine corneal sealants and adhesives in the pre-clinical phase of development to guide future development.

Method: A systematic review of major databases from inception to 4^th March 2025.

Results: Corneal sealants and adhesives can be broadly divided into biological and synthetic groups. These are further categorized by their methods of adhesion activation. This review identified the following groups: human fibrin glue, cyanoacrylates, biodendrimers, polyethylene glycol, fibrinogen, albumin, collagen, gelatin, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, dextran, and chitosan. Burst pressures are often reported as a measure of sealing efficacy. Ideal characteristics for future development include biocompatibility, tolerate high burst pressure, on-demand activation, accelerates healing, and does no transmit infection.

Conclusion: A variety of corneal sealants and adhesives are in development. To seal corneal wounds sealants and adhesive should have a range of properties to prevent leak.

Purpose: To investigate time-dependent structural and functional retinal alterations in a mouse model of prolonged lens-induced myopia.

Methods: Myopia was induced in male C57BL/6J mice by fitting -30 D lenses on both eyes starting at postnatal week 3. Mice were assigned to either a long-term induction group (3-9 weeks of age) or a short-term induction group (3-6 weeks of age). Separate groups fitted with 0 D lenses served as controls. Ocular parameters, including refraction, axial length, choroidal thickness, and retinal thickness were measured at weeks 3, 6, and 9 using an infrared photorefractor and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Retinal function was assessed by dark-adapted electroretinography at week 9 for the long-term group and at week 6 for the short-term group. Statistical analyses included two-way repeated-measures ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's post hoc test for comparisons across groups and time points, and two-tailed unpaired t-test or one-way ANOVA with Fisher's LSD post hoc test for group comparisons at individual time points.

Results: After 6 weeks of myopia induction, the long-term myopia group exhibited significant reduction in refraction, axial length elongation, and choroidal thickness thinning. Inner retinal thickness was markedly reduced, and electroretinography revealed attenuated amplitudes and delayed implicit times of the oscillatory potentials.

Conclusion: Prolonged lens-induced myopia in mice induces time-dependent structural and functional retinal alterations, particularly in the inner layers. This model underscores the significance of early retinal monitoring under long-term myopic conditions and serves as a platform for investigating retinal vulnerability and developing preservation strategies over time.

Purpose: To explore the effects of dark chocolate during relaxation and near work on choroidal thickness and blood flow parameters in myopic patients.

Methods: Thirty-one myopic subjects were recruited for this self-controlled study. Participants need to complete two experiments. Experiment 1: Subjects first underwent a 10-minute washout process (0 diopter), followed by 20 min of near work (5 diopter). Experiment 2: After consuming 30 grams of dark chocolate 2 h in advance, subjects underwent the washout and near work procedures. Choroidal parameters were measured using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCT/OCTA). Parameters comprised mean choroidal thickness (ChT), choriocapillaris perfusion area (CCPA), along with choroidal vessel volume (CVV) and three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index (CVI) quantified specifically for large- and middle-sized vessels.

Results: After consuming dark chocolate, ChT and CCPA significantly increased during relaxation in individuals with myopia. Both experiments found that the choroidal blood flow decreased significantly after near work, but the ChT decreased significantly only after consumption of dark chocolate. Furthermore, there were significant differences in the changes of CCPA and CVI between the two experiments.

Conclusions: After consumption of dark chocolate for two hours, a positive effect on choroidal thickness and blood flow was observed under relaxed condition. No evidence was found that consumption of dark chocolate could inhibit the reduction in choroidal thickness or blood flow during near work.

Purpose: This study aimed to uncover the mechanism of IGF2BP3/GSDMD axis by modulating JNK signaling activation in eyelid basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Methods: Human BCC cell line (TE354.T) was transfected vectors targeting IGF2BP3 and GSDMD. Following transfection, changes in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, pyroptosis, and inflammatory response were monitored. Protein expression analysis was done with specific antibodies (IGF2BP3, GSDMD, GSMDM-N, p20, IL-1β, IL-18, JNK, p-JNK, and p-c-JUN). IGF2BP3 and GSDMD co-localization in TE354.T cells were observed. The m6A modification of GSDMD mRNA was detected by gene-specific m6A qPCR assay. Tumor growth was observed in nude mice.

Results: By stabilizing GSDMD mRNA, IGF2BP3 reduced eyelid BCC proliferation, invasion, and migration, and increased pyroptosis. IGF2BP3 regulated the expression and translational output of GSDMD in TE354.T cells. IGF2BP3/GSDMD axis acted in BCC by blocking JNK pathway activation. IGF2BP3 inhibited tumor formation by promoting GSDMD stability.

Conclusions: IGF2BP3 enhances GSDMD stability and blocks JNK signaling activation to promote eyelid BCC pyroptosis in an m6A-Dependent Manner.

Purpose: After Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK), the air-gas compound in the anterior chamber can lead to a postoperative increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) up to pupillary block. YAG laser iridotomy (IO) or surgical iridectomy (IE) is performed to prevent these painful and sight-threatening elevations. We aimed to compare the safety profiles of the two procedures.

Methods: We included a total of n = 196 eyes of N = 178 patients (55.6% female and 44.4% male) who underwent DMEK. Of these, 124 eyes received intraoperatively an IE (63.3%, group IE) and 72 an IO one day before the surgery (36.7%, group IO). A procedural imbalance between both groups has to be noted, as phakic patients often underwent IO and the pseudophakic ones always underwent IE. The primary endpoint was the incidence of elevated IOP. Secondary endpoints were the clinical outcome (measured by endothelial cell count (ECC), visual acuity (VA), central corneal thickness (CCT)) and risk factors for pressure elevation.

Results: Group IO showed a significantly higher incidence of postoperative IOP values above 50 mmHg (p = .021), a higher absolute IOP immediately after surgery compared to group IE (p = .004; ω² = .04) and a greater immediate IOP difference from preoperative to postoperative (p = .011, ω² = .03). This difference resolved after 6 weeks and VA did not differ significantly between the groups. In pseudophakic eyes, a deeper anterior chamber depth (ACD) was associated with smaller immediate IOP difference (p = .026; ω² = .06).

Conclusions: This study showed that preoperative laser IO might be an alternative to surgical IE, but sufficient postoperative pressure control and appropriate preoperative counseling are crucial as laser iridotomy is associated with a higher risk of peak pressure values > 50 mmHg and immediate pressure differences.