Ripasudil does not induce phospholipid accumulation in human corneal epithelial cells

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitors are a new class of glaucoma drugs.
• Netarsudil, a ROCK inhibitor, can cause cornea verticillata, a rare corneal condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if ripasudil, another ROCK inhibitor, induces cornea verticillata.
• To compare the effects of ripasudil, netarsudil, and Y-27632 on corneal cells.

Main Methods:

• Corneal cell lines (CHO-K1, HCE-T) and primary human corneal epithelial cells (HCEC-2) were treated with varying concentrations of ripasudil, netarsudil, or Y-27632.
• Intracellular phospholipid levels were measured to assess drug-induced phospholipidosis.

Main Results:

• Ripasudil and Y-27632 did not affect intracellular phospholipid levels.
• Netarsudil treatment led to intracellular phospholipid accumulation.
• Netarsudil shares chemical similarities with cationic amphiphilic drugs known to cause phospholipidosis, unlike ripasudil and Y-27632.

Conclusions:

• Ripasudil is unlikely to induce cornea verticillata due to its chemical structure.
• The findings suggest a favorable safety profile for ripasudil regarding corneal adverse effects.