Topical minoxidil for glaucoma filtration surgery in the rabbit

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Cell Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Glaucoma filtration surgery aims to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Fibroblast proliferation is a key factor in scar formation, potentially leading to surgical failure.
• Limbal fibroblasts play a critical role in the wound healing process post-trabeculectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of topical minoxidil on limbal fibroblast proliferation following filtration surgery in rabbits.
• To determine if minoxidil can modulate fibroblast activity and improve surgical outcomes in a rabbit model.

Main Methods:

• New Zealand white rabbits underwent unguarded trabeculectomies.
• Rabbits received topical minoxidil (20, 40, or 120 nM) or vehicle control at various frequencies post-operatively.
• Intraocular pressure (IOP), bleb appearance, and ocular toxicity were monitored.
• Tissues surrounding the trabeculectomy ostium were analyzed for vimentin-positive fibroblast counts via immunohistochemistry.

Main Results:

• Minoxidil at 20 and 40 nM showed no significant effect on IOP or bleb survival.
• A 120 nM concentration of minoxidil significantly reduced fibroblast counts by 42.6% within 24 hours (P < 0.001).
• This inhibitory effect persisted for at least 2 days, with improved bleb survival and IOP reduction in the 120 nM group.

Conclusions:

• Topical minoxidil, particularly at 120 nM, effectively inhibits limbal fibroblast proliferation post-trabeculectomy in rabbits.
• This inhibition may contribute to improved bleb longevity and sustained IOP reduction.
• Minoxidil demonstrates potential as an adjunctive therapy to enhance glaucoma filtration surgery outcomes.