Inhibition of transforming growth factor-beta1 and its effects on human corneal fibroblasts by mannose-6-phosphate Potential for preventing haze after refractive surgery.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the action of mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) as an inhibitor of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) and its effects on human corneal fibroblasts.

SETTING

Department of Academic Ophthalmology, Rayne Institute, St. Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom.

METHOD

Keratocytes were cultured in serum-containing medium with added TGF-beta1 and in serum-containing medium containing TGF-beta1 with M6P. Controls consisted of cells in serum-containing medium alone and cells cultured in serum-containing medium with M6P. Differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts was detected by immunohistochemistry for alpha-smooth muscle actin. Images were captured by laser confocal microscopy.

RESULTS

The differentiation of cells into myofibroblasts was significantly greater after culture in medium containing TGF-beta1 than in control cultures. Myofibroblast differentiation of cells was significantly reduced when cultured in medium containing TGF-beta1 with M6P (P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Mannose-6-phosphate significantly reduced TGF-beta1-mediated transformation of human corneal fibroblasts into myofibroblasts; it is a potential modulator of corneal wound healing and may reduce haze after refractive surgery.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

Neither author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.