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Tear hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) availability increases markedly after excimer laser surface ablation
T Tervo1, M Vesaluoma, G L Bennett
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Experimental Eye Research
|April 1, 1997
Summary
Following corneal surgery, tear Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) levels increase due to higher tear flow, enhancing ocular surface wound healing. This study reveals HGF
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Wound Healing
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Tear cytokines and growth factors influence corneal wound repair.
- Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) is crucial for epithelial cell proliferation, motility, and differentiation.
- HGF is produced by ocular surface cells and lacrimal glands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in tear film HGF concentration and production after excimer laser surface ablation.
- To determine the role of HGF in ocular surface wound healing post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Tear samples collected preoperatively and 1, 2, 7 days post-PRK/PTK.
- HGF concentration measured using ELISA.
- Tear HGF production calculated from concentration and tear flow rate.
Main Results:
- Instantaneous tear HGF concentration decreased post-PRK.
- Increased tear flow significantly boosted HGF bioavailability.
- HGF's heparin-binding properties enhance its availability to receptors.
Conclusions:
- This is the first study to report on tear film HGF production changes post-corneal surgery.
- Elevated HGF secretion, coupled with increased tear production, suggests a vital role in ocular surface repair.
- HGF is present in normal tears and its secretion increases significantly after corneal injury.