Aurantio-obtusin Alleviates Dry Eye Disease by Targeting NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling in Rodent Models

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology
• Immunology

Background:

• Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent inflammatory condition impacting patient quality of life.
• Aurantio-obtusin (AO), a compound from Semen Cassiae, possesses known pharmacological activities, but its role in DED was unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic potential of Aurantio-obtusin (AO) in a rodent model of dry eye disease (DED).
• To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of AO's action in DED.

Main Methods:

• A rodent model of DED was induced using benzalkonium chloride (BAC).
• Topical AO administration was applied, followed by assessments of tear production, ocular surface integrity, and goblet cell counts.
• ELISA, immunohistochemical staining, and western blotting were used to analyze cytokine/chemokine levels and inflammasome/NF-κB pathway activation.

Main Results:

• Topical AO significantly increased tear production and preserved goblet cells in BAC-induced DED rats.
• AO treatment markedly reduced proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the cornea and conjunctiva.
• AO suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathway activation in the ocular tissues.

Conclusions:

• Aurantio-obtusin (AO) demonstrates a protective effect against benzalkonium chloride-induced dry eye disease in rats.
• AO alleviates DED symptoms by inhibiting the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway.
• AO holds potential as a therapeutic agent for dry eye disease.