Optimal Concentration of hEGF for Epithelial Healing in Experimental Corneal Alkali Wounds.
- Author:
Roo Min JUN
1
;
Jang Hyun CHUNG
Author Information
1. Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea. junrumin@yahoo.co.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Corneal alkali wound;
Epithelial healing;
hEGF
- MeSH:
Alkalies*;
Cell Proliferation;
Cornea;
Corneal Neovascularization;
Microscopy, Electron, Transmission;
Wounds and Injuries*
- From:Journal of the Korean Ophthalmological Society
2001;42(12):1771-1777
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
PURPOSE: An optimal concentration of hEGF to enhance epithelial healing was determined in the rabbit eyes after alkali wounds. METHODS: Alkali-injured corneas (=5.5 mm, 1N NaOH, 60s) were treated with 0 (control), 2, 5, 10, and 50microgram/ml hEGF 3 times per day. The measurement of epithelial healing rate, transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemical observation were performed after 7 days treatment. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in the rates of epithelial healing between control and each hEGF-treated group. Among the tested concentrations, 5microgram/ml hEGF induced the most active proliferation of basal cells and 50microgram/ml hEGF remarkably produced a vascular ingrowth to the central wound area. The number of epithelial layers was increased by hEGF in a concentration-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS: A low concentration of hEGF may selectively enhance epithelial healing without inducing corneal neovascularization. The optimal concentration of hEGF for the stimulation of basal cell proliferation appears to be 5 microgram/ml in rabbit corneal alkali wounds.
