Recombinant tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases type 1 suppresses alkali-burn-induced corneal ulceration in rabbits.

PURPOSE

To test if recombinant tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1) was effective in reducing corneal ulceration after alkali injury to the rabbit cornea. The effect of TIMP-1 was compared with that of a proven synthetic metalloproteinase inhibitor.

METHODS

After a defined alkali injury to the rabbit cornea, a topical treatment regimen was followed for 24 days; one group was treated with vehicle only, a second group with recombinant TIMP-1, and a third group with the synthetic metalloproteinase inhibitor. Corneas were scored for ulceration during the 24-day period and the scores for the three groups were compared.

RESULTS

The incidence and progression of ulceration and perforation, in the alkali-burned corneas receiving treatment with recombinant TIMP-1 or the synthetic inhibitor, were significantly less than in corneas receiving vehicle treatment alone.

CONCLUSION

Recombinant TIMP-1 is as effective as a proven synthetic inhibitor in ameliorating corneal ulceration and perforation after an alkali injury.