Corneal oxygen scavenging systems: lysis of corneal epithelial cells by superoxide anions

The cornea has inherent protection from superoxide radicals from the presence of superoxide dismutase. However, the dismutation of these radicals results in the generation of hydrogen peroxide. The corneal scavenging systems for hydrogen peroxide is minimal as there are only low levels of catalase and glutathione peroxidase present. We have demonstrated the cytolytic capabilities of oxygen radicals in the cornea and reversed this lysis with catalase. These data indicate that hydrogen peroxide is the primary damaging agent in this system.