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Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Use of Rabbit Eyes in Pharmacokinetic Studies of Intraocular Drugs
Published on: July 23, 2016
Toxicology study of long-term administration of rhKGF-2 eye drops on rabbit corneas
JianQiu Cai1, Wenqing Li2, Jinghang Li3
1Wenzhou Medical University, Chashan University Park, Wenzhou, 325035, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Second Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, #109 Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou 325027, China.
Abstract:
Keratinocyte growth factor -2 promotes corneal repair. Its mechanism of action involves regulating regeneration and migration of corneal cells, as well as activating corneal limbal stem cells. However, KGF-2 being a carcinogenic growth factor and its potential adverse effect in over dosage long-term treatment had not yet been reported. In this study, we used New Zealand white rabbits to study possible toxic effects of ocular administration of recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor-2 eye drops. Animals in the medium- and high-dose groups had some ocular irritant reactions during the course of drug administration; however this reaction was harmless to the cornea and it ended up when administration was stopped. Serum biochemistries were largely unaffected by treatment. Pathological examinations were unremarkable. We found that over-dosed administration of these eye drops caused some ocular irritation, but this irritant reaction was harmless to the eye, and it reversed after the drug was stopped. There were no apparent systemic effects of the drug.
Insights
Recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor-2 (KGF-2) eye drops caused temporary ocular irritation in rabbits at high doses. However, KGF-2 eye drops demonstrated no significant corneal toxicity or systemic effects, suggesting a favorable safety profile for corneal repair.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Keratinocyte growth factor-2 (KGF-2) is known to promote corneal repair by regulating cell regeneration, migration, and stem cell activation.
- Potential carcinogenic properties and adverse effects of KGF-2 in high-dose, long-term ocular treatments remain largely unreported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential toxic effects of ocular administration of recombinant human KGF-2 eye drops in a rabbit model.
- To assess the safety profile of KGF-2 eye drops, particularly concerning corneal health and systemic toxicity.
Main Methods:
- New Zealand white rabbits were administered varying doses of recombinant human KGF-2 eye drops.
- Ocular examinations, serum biochemistry analyses, and pathological examinations were conducted to evaluate treatment effects.
Main Results:
- Animals in medium- and high-dose groups exhibited transient ocular irritant reactions during administration.
- These irritant reactions were deemed harmless to the cornea and resolved upon cessation of drug administration.
- Serum biochemistries and pathological examinations were largely unremarkable, indicating no significant systemic toxicity or structural damage.
Conclusions:
- Over-dosed ocular administration of KGF-2 eye drops can induce temporary, harmless ocular irritation in rabbits.
- The study suggests that KGF-2 eye drops do not cause significant corneal damage or systemic adverse effects, supporting its potential therapeutic use.
- Further research may be warranted to fully elucidate the long-term safety and efficacy of KGF-2 in corneal repair therapies.
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