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Updated: Sep 16, 2026
A Non-invasive Way to Isolate and Phenotype Cells from the Conjunctiva
Published on: July 5, 2017
[Effects of iodine on experimental allergic conjunctivitis]
Junichi Mori1, Michiharu Ishizaki, Tadashi Senoo
1Department of Ophthalmology, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, 880 Kitakobayashi, Mibu-machi, Shimotsuga-gun, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan.
Purpose:
To evaluate the anti-allergic effect of iodine in an allergic conjunctivities model.
Methods:
Guinea pigs (n = 107) were administered iodine at three different concentrations in feed. Twenty Guinea pigs were passively sensitized by serum containing ovalbumin (OA) antibody, and eighteen Guinea pigs were actively sensitized by OA intraperitoneal injection. OA was dropped into the eye and the degree of chemosis was determined 15 minutes after challenge. Six hours later, eosinophils infiltrating the conjunctiva were counted, and iodine, histamine and triiodothyronine concentrations in blood were measured. In addition, platelet activating factor (PAF) was dropped into the eye of sixty non-sensitized Guinea pigs. Eosinophils infiltrating the conjunctiva were counted at 30 min, and 1, 2, and 4 hours later. Mast cells in the conjunctiva of nine other non-sensitized Guinea pigs were observed under an electron microscope to determine the effect of iodine on mast cells.
Results:
As the iodine concentration in blood increased, there was less chemosis, fewer eosinophils, and a lower histamine concentration in the blood. Eosinophilic infiltration induced by PAF was not inhibited. Granules showing a low-density area in mast cells were increased.
Conclusion:
Iodine exerted an anti-allergic effect, thought to be mediated through mast cells rather than PAF.
