[Effect of different concentrations of tranilast on posterior capsule opacification]

To evaluate the effect of different concentrations(0.5, 1.0, 2.0%) of tranilast eyedrops in preventing fibrous posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in rabbits.

Experimental phacoemulsification procedures and in-the-bag placement of intraocular lens(IOL) implant were performed. An anterior eye segment analysis system(EAS-1000, Nidek Co, Ltd) was used to evaluate the degree of PCO during 5 weeks after surgery.

The development of PCO was significantly suppressed in the eyes treated with tranilast eyedrops from 1 week after surgery. The mean PCO density after treatment with 0.5% tranilast was 59.1 +/- 9.3 (mean deviation +/- standard error) and 57.1 +/- 8.2, while for 1.0% tranilast it was 40.1 +/- 6.8 and 46.6 +/- 8.4, and for 2.0% tranilast it was 38.5 +/- 6.0 and 37.5 +/- 5.6 (computer compatible tape, CCT) at 1 week and 5 weeks, respectively. In the control group, the mean PCO density was 89.3 +/- 10.4 and 137.4 +/- 32.8 at 1 week and 5 weeks, respectively(p < 0.05). However, no significant statistical difference was observed in any of the findings for the 3 different tranilast concentrations.

These results suggest that the 0.5% tranilast eyedrops, which are already available on the market, are sufficiently effective for inhibiting PCO.