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Surfactant protein D in Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis

C C McCormick1, J A Hobden, C L Balzli

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Ocular Immunology and Inflammation
|November 1, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Surfactant protein D plays a crucial role in defending the eye against Pseudomonas keratitis. Wild-type mice with this protein showed better recovery and fewer bacteria than deficient mice.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Immunology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common cause of bacterial keratitis.
  • The innate immune system plays a vital role in combating ocular infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of surfactant protein D (SP-D) in the host defense against Pseudomonas keratitis.
  • To determine if SP-D influences the severity and clearance of P. aeruginosa eye infections.

Main Methods:

  • Wild-type and SP-D-deficient mice were infected with P. aeruginosa.
  • Ocular infection severity was assessed using slit-lamp examination.
  • Bacterial load in corneas was quantified at multiple time points post-infection.

Main Results:

  • Mice lacking SP-D exhibited significantly higher ocular inflammation scores at 3 and 6 days post-infection.
  • Wild-type mice demonstrated a higher rate of recovery from Pseudomonas keratitis.
  • SP-D-deficient mice had a significantly greater bacterial burden in their corneas on day 6.

Conclusions:

  • Surfactant protein D is essential for effective ocular innate immunity against Pseudomonas keratitis.
  • SP-D contributes to the control and resolution of P. aeruginosa infections in the cornea.

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