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Anti-inflammatory effects of astaxanthin against fungal keratitis
Yu Huan1, Xu-Dong Peng1, Jing Lin1
1Department of Ophthalmology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, Shandong Province, China.
Aim:
To characterize effect of astaxanthin (ASX) in Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) induced keratitis in mouse model.
Methods:
In vivo, fungal keratitis mouse model was established in C57BL/6 mice using A. fumigatus, followed by ASX or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) treatment. Clinical responses were evaluated by clinical score and myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay. Inflammatory cytokines were assessed by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot, immunofluorescence, and enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA).
Results:
In animal model, ASX improved corneal transparency and clinical response, suppressed the expression of inflammatory cytokine like IL-1β, TNF-α, and HMGB-1. Neutrophil levels have been shown to decrease in ASX-treated cornea by immunofluorescence and MPO. TLR2 and TLR4 levels were lower in ASX-treated group than DMSO-treated.
Conclusion:
ASX can suppress inflammatory response and reduce inflammatory cytokine production in mice model with A. fumigatus keratitis.
Insights
Astaxanthin (ASX) effectively treats Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis in mice by reducing inflammation and improving corneal clarity. This study demonstrates ASX
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Immunology
Background:
- Fungal keratitis, particularly from Aspergillus fumigatus, poses a significant threat to vision.
- Current treatments may have limitations, necessitating exploration of novel therapeutic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of astaxanthin (ASX) in a mouse model of Aspergillus fumigatus-induced fungal keratitis.
- To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of ASX on ocular tissues.
Main Methods:
- A murine model of fungal keratitis was established using Aspergillus fumigatus.
- Mice were treated with astaxanthin (ASX) or a vehicle control (DMSO).
- Clinical scores, myeloperoxidase (MPO) assays, RT-PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence, and ELISA were used to assess inflammation and treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- Astaxanthin treatment significantly improved corneal transparency and clinical outcomes in the keratitis model.
- ASX suppressed the expression of key inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, TNF-α, and HMGB-1.
- Reduced neutrophil infiltration and lower levels of TLR2 and TLR4 were observed in ASX-treated corneas.
Conclusions:
- Astaxanthin demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory properties against Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis.
- ASX effectively mitigates the inflammatory response and cytokine production in a murine model of fungal keratitis.
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