Obtusifolin ameliorates dry eye model in rats by reducing inflammation and blocking MAPK/NF-κB pathways

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology
• Immunology

Background:

• Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular surface condition characterized by inflammation and damage.
• Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is commonly used to induce DED in experimental models.
• Understanding the mechanisms of DED is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic effects of obtusifolin on DED.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of obtusifolin's action in a rat DED model.

Main Methods:

• A rat model of DED was established using benzalkonium chloride (BAC).
• Obtusifolin was administered topically to DED rats.
• Tear production, conjunctival irritation, goblet cell counts, corneal integrity, and inflammatory markers (cytokines, MAPK/NF-κB signaling) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Obtusifolin significantly alleviated conjunctival irritation and increased tear production in DED rats.
• Treatment with obtusifolin reduced inflammatory responses, preserved goblet cells, and repaired the corneal epithelial barrier.
• Obtusifolin suppressed the phosphorylation of key signaling molecules including ERK, p38, and NF-κB.

Conclusions:

• Obtusifolin demonstrates significant ameliorative effects on DED in a rat model.
• The anti-inflammatory action of obtusifolin is mediated through the inactivation of the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway.
• Obtusifolin holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for managing DED.