Effects of Resveratrol on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Glaucomatous Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells

Resveratrol (RSV), an antioxidant polyphenol, has demonstrated beneficial effects in various ocular diseases including glaucoma. Our study was designed to evaluate the effects of RSV on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzymes, nitric oxide (NO) and interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 α), in human glaucomatous trabecular meshwork (TM) cells.

Western blot was utilized to determine endothelial and inducible NOS (eNOS, iNOS) expression. The concentration-related effects of RSV on IL-1 α and NO levels were assessed using the respective ELISA kits.

Densitometry data showed concentration-related increases in eNOS, and reduction in iNOS expression at high RSV concentrations. RSV treatment (0.1, 1, 10 and 100 µM) resulted in increased NO levels (6 ± 0.7, 7 ± 0.8, 7.3 ± 0.7 and 9.5 ± 1 nM/mg protein, respectively). The average value obtained for control was 4.8 ± 0.6 nM/mg protein. Significant increases in IL-1α levels were observed with lower concentrations of RSV. However, at higher RSV concentrations (10-100 μM), IL-1 levels decreased.

Resveratrol increased NO in glaucomatous TM cells, possibly by increasing eNOS expression. Thus, RSV-induced NO production supports the beneficial effects of this antioxidant in glaucoma. Furthermore, our results showing a reduction in iNOS, a contributor to oxidative stress expression, further support RSV's antioxidant capabilities in vision.