[Effect of suramin on proliferation and migration of lens epithelial cells in vitro].

BACKGROUND

New approaches for the treatment of secondary cataract focus on a pharmacological therapy to prevent posterior capsule opacification. In this study we investigated the effect of the naphthylurea suramin in vitro in a cell culture model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cell proliferation was measured using a proliferation assay and cell migration with a migration assay. Analyses of suramin toxicity were carried out using trypan blue staining.

RESULTS

A significant dose-dependent effect of suramin on the inhibition of LEC proliferation and migration was found even after short (1 or 2 h) incubation times ( p<0.01). Cell lysis reflecting a cytotoxic effect of suramin was not found even with high concentrations. However, preincubation of lens capsules with suramin did not prevent LECs from migrating compared to control cultures.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate the efficiency of suramin in vitro to inhibit migration of HLEC which can be explained by blocking growth factor-mediated effects on the cells. However, further investigations on the pharmacokinetic properties of suramin and possible side-effects on other intraocular tissues must follow.