Swelling in the isolated perfused cornea induced by 12(R)hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid

Area of Science:

• Ocular Surface Research
• Corneal Physiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Corneal edema is a significant clinical concern.
• Understanding the molecular mechanisms of corneal swelling is crucial for developing effective treatments.
• The role of specific eicosanoids in regulating corneal hydration is an active area of investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of 12(R)hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12(R)HETE) on corneal swelling.
• To determine the effect of 12(R)HETE on human and rabbit corneal endothelium.
• To elucidate the mechanism by which 12(R)HETE influences corneal hydration.

Main Methods:

• Excised human and rabbit corneas were utilized for in vitro experiments.
• Corneal endothelium was perfused with varying concentrations of 12(R)HETE.
• Comparisons were made between 12(R)HETE and its isomer 12(S)HETE, as well as with ouabain.
• Endothelial permeability and Na/K adenosine triphosphatase activity were assessed.

Main Results:

• 12(R)HETE induced a dose-dependent corneal swelling in a concentration-dependent manner.
• The swelling caused by 12(R)HETE was reversible upon removal of the compound.
• 12(R)HETE significantly inhibited Na/K adenosine triphosphatase activity, unlike 12(S)HETE.
• Endothelial permeability to carboxyfluorescein remained unaffected.

Conclusions:

• 12(R)HETE is identified as a causative agent of corneal swelling.
• The mechanism involves the inhibition of endothelial pump function.
• This inhibition is, at least partially, mediated by the suppression of Na/K adenosine triphosphatase activity.