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Is cytochrome modulation the new frontier for decreasing the risk of cataract?

Kavitha S Nair1, Kirti V Patel, Tejal R Gandhi

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, Anand Pharmacy College, Opp Town Hall, Anand - 388 001, Gujarat, India.

Indian Journal of Pharmacology
|March 26, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) modulators influence cataract development. CYP inhibitors like diltiazem delayed cataract occurrence, while CYP inducers like pioglitazone accelerated it in rats.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Cataract is a leading cause of blindness worldwide.
  • The role of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes in cataractogenesis is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of CYP modulators on cataract development.
  • To explore the potential involvement of CYP-mediated pathways in cataract initiation.

Main Methods:

  • Male Sprague-Dawley rats (40-50 gm) were used.
  • Rats were pretreated with diltiazem (CYP inhibitor) or pioglitazone (CYP inducer).
  • Macroscopical examination of isolated rat lenses assessed cataract occurrence.

Main Results:

  • Diltiazem pretreatment delayed the onset of cataract.
  • Pioglitazone pretreatment accelerated the occurrence of cataract.
  • The study observed effects on initiation but not maturation patterns.

Conclusions:

  • Cytochrome P450 (CYP) mediated pathways appear to influence cataract initiation.
  • Diltiazem (CYP inhibitor) delays cataract, while pioglitazone (CYP inducer) hastens it.
  • CYP modulation affects cataract onset but not maturation.
Keywords:
Cataractcytochrome P450diltiazempioglitazone

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