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Inhibitory effects of tranilast on the proliferation and functions of human pterygium-derived fibroblasts
1Discovery Research R&D, Kissei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Nagano-Pref., Japan.
Purpose:
We studied the possibility that tranilast, an antiallergic and antiproliferative drug, may be beneficial for the treatment of pterygium.
Methods:
Pterygium-derived cells were identified by immunohistochemical methods. Growth rate of pterygium-derived cells was determined by using a hemocytometer. Chemotaxis was determined in a microchemotaxis chamber. Pterygium-derived cells were cultured on floating collagen gel, and the contracted diameter was measured. Collagen synthesis by pterygium-derived cells was determined by the collagenase digestive method. Tranilast was added to the culture medium at final concentrations of 0, 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 microg/ml.
Results:
Pterygium-derived cells were stained with anti-prolylhydroxylase and anti-alpha-smooth muscle actin, and identified as fibroblasts. Tranilast inhibited the proliferation and chemotaxis of pterygium-derived fibroblasts, and the collagen-gel contraction induced by these cells, but it exerted no inhibitory action on collagen synthesis by pterygium-derived fibroblasts.
Conclusion:
Tranilast may be useful for suppressing the recurrence and, possibly, the development of pterygium.
Insights
Tranilast, an antiallergic and antiproliferative drug, was studied for pterygium treatment. It inhibited pterygium-derived fibroblast proliferation and chemotaxis, suggesting potential for pterygium management.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pterygium is a proliferative eye condition.
- Antiallergic and antiproliferative agents are explored for treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of tranilast in treating pterygium.
- To assess tranilast's effects on pterygium-derived cells.
Main Methods:
- Identified pterygium-derived cells as fibroblasts using immunohistochemistry.
- Measured cell proliferation, chemotaxis, and collagen gel contraction.
- Assessed tranilast's impact on these cellular functions at varying concentrations.
Main Results:
- Tranilast significantly inhibited proliferation and chemotaxis of pterygium-derived fibroblasts.
- Tranilast reduced collagen-gel contraction induced by these cells.
- Tranilast did not inhibit collagen synthesis by pterygium-derived fibroblasts.
Conclusions:
- Tranilast demonstrates potential for suppressing pterygium development.
- The drug may be beneficial in preventing pterygium recurrence.
