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Thymoquinone attenuates inflammation in C. Albicans keratitis by activating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and reducing

Hua Yao1, Liting Hu1, Nan Jiang1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.

Cytokine
|October 5, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Thymoquinone (TQ) effectively treats fungal keratitis by inhibiting Candida albicans growth and reducing inflammation. It activates the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, offering a protective effect against this eye infection.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Mycology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Fungal keratitis (FK) caused by Candida albicans is a significant cause of vision loss.
  • Current treatments for FK can have limitations and side effects.
  • Thymoquinone (TQ), a compound from black seed oil, shows potential therapeutic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects of thymoquinone (TQ) on Candida albicans keratitis.
  • To elucidate the mechanism of action of TQ in treating fungal keratitis.
  • To determine safe and effective concentrations of TQ for corneal application.

Main Methods:

  • Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and cell viability assays (CCK-8) were used to determine TQ efficacy and safety.
  • Clinical FK severity, fungal burden, and neutrophil infiltration were assessed in vivo.
  • Gene and protein expression of inflammatory factors, Nrf2, and HO-1 were analyzed using RT-PCR, ELISA, and Western blot.

Main Results:

  • TQ demonstrated antifungal activity against C. albicans at 50 µg/mL with corneal safety up to 3.75 µg/mL.
  • TQ treatment significantly improved clinical scores, reduced fungal burden, and decreased neutrophil infiltration.
  • TQ inhibited inflammatory factors and activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, with effects reversed by pathway inhibitors.

Conclusions:

  • Thymoquinone exerts protective effects against C. albicans keratitis.
  • TQ acts via multiple mechanisms: inhibiting fungal growth, reducing inflammation, and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
  • TQ shows promise as a therapeutic agent for fungal keratitis.
Keywords:
Anti-inflammatoryC. albicansFungal keratitisMouse corneaThymoquinone

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