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Published on: July 22, 2021
Cytotoxicities and wound healing effects of contact lens multipurpose solution on human corneal epithelial cell
Su Hwan Park1,2, Sung Hee Park3, Hak Sun Yu3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, South Korea.
Clinical Relevance:
Contact lens multipurpose solutions (MPSs) contain several components that have the potential to cause corneal epithelial cell toxicity. Evaluating the components and the toxic effect of MPS should be considered for effective eye care.
Background:
The cytotoxic and wound healing effects of five commercially available MPSs on human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) are is investigated.
Methods:
The following commercially available MPSs were used: Queen's PLURISOL®, Frenz®, Boston SIMPLUS®, DL+PLUS EYE® (DL), and NEW YORK DEFINE® (NY). The proliferation of HCECs exposed to each MPS for 1, 6, and 24 h and the cytotoxicity of these solutions were analyzed using methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium-based colorimetric and lactate dehydrogenase leakage assays, respectively. The cellular morphology was evaluated by inverted phase-contrast and electron microscopy. A scratch-wound assay was performed to measure wound widths 24 h after confluent HCEC monolayers were scratch-wounded.
Results:
The tested MPS had a time-dependent inhibitory effect on HCEC proliferation and cytotoxicity, significantly at 24 h after exposure (p< 0.05 in all MPSs). HCECs exposed to MPS detached from the bottom of the culture dishes, showed degenerative changes such as loss of microvilli, cytoplasmic vacuole formation and nuclear condensation, and decreased wound healing, compared to the controls (p< 0.001 in Boston, DL and NY). Among the tested MPS, DL and NY were more cytotoxic and showed less wound healing.
Conclusion:
MPS has a toxic effect on HCECs, which is dependent on the concentration of the disinfecting component. Since the components that constitute the MPS are absorbed and retained in the lens, cautious scrutiny of the concentration and attention to lens cleaning are warranted to mitigate the related cytotoxicity.
Insights
Contact lens multipurpose solutions (MPSs) can harm corneal cells, impacting proliferation and wound healing. DL and NY MPSs showed higher toxicity, emphasizing careful lens care and component evaluation for eye health.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Contact lens multipurpose solutions (MPSs) contain ingredients that may cause corneal epithelial cell toxicity.
- Understanding the toxic effects of MPS components is crucial for maintaining ocular health and effective eye care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cytotoxic and wound healing effects of five commercial MPSs on human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs).
Main Methods:
- Assessed HCEC proliferation and cytotoxicity using MTT and LDH assays after 1, 6, and 24-hour MPS exposure.
- Evaluated cellular morphology via microscopy and measured wound healing using a scratch-wound assay.
Main Results:
- MPS exposure exhibited a time-dependent inhibition of HCEC proliferation and induced cytotoxicity, significant at 24 hours (p<0.05).
- HCECs showed detachment, degenerative changes, and reduced wound healing compared to controls (p<0.001 for Boston, DL, NY).
- DL and NY MPSs demonstrated greater cytotoxicity and impaired wound healing.
Conclusions:
- MPSs exert toxic effects on HCECs, influenced by the concentration of disinfecting agents.
- MPS components absorbed by lenses warrant careful scrutiny of concentrations and cleaning practices to minimize cytotoxicity.
