IL-6 induction in desiccated corneal epithelium in vitro and in vivo
2011
Impact of Drying on Inflammatory Cytokines in Corneal Cells
Sample size: 6
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Higuchi Akihiro, Kawakita Tetsuya, Tsubota Kazuo
Primary Institution: Keio University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Desiccation affects the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in corneal epithelial cells.
Conclusion
Desiccation increases IL-6 expression in corneal epithelial cells, which may contribute to cell death.
Supporting Evidence
- Short-term desiccation significantly increased IL-6 levels in corneal epithelial cells.
- Anti-IL-6 antibody partially protected cells from desiccation-induced death.
- Long-term desiccation also increased IL-6 and IL-8 levels.
Takeaway
When corneal cells dry out, they produce more of a substance called IL-6, which can harm the cells.
Methodology
The study involved culturing human corneal epithelial cells and exposing them to short-term and long-term desiccation, followed by measuring cytokine levels and cell viability.
Participant Demographics
Four-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in the animal model.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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