Abstract
Purpose: :
The principal objective of this study is to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of ganciclovir (GCV) on the cultured human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs).
Methods: :
HCECs were cultured according to a previously published method and exposed to various concentrations of (0 - 20 mg/ml) of GCV. Cell viability was assessed via the Cell Counting Kit-8 method and live/dead viability/cytotoxicity assays. Cell damage was assessed using phase-contrast microscopy after 24 hr exposure to GCV. Cell cycle and apoptotic effects were analyzed by NC-3000 to evaluate the effects of GCV on HCECs.
Results: :
Cytotoxicity tests demonstrated the cytotoxic effect of GCV on HCECs in a dose dependent manner. GCV concentrations of ≥ 5 mg/mL led to a significant reduction in cell viability. Higher concentrations of GCV resulted in an increased number of apoptotic cells indicating activation of the pro-apoptotic pathway.
Conclusions: :
GCV has a dose-dependent toxic effect on cultured HCECs. Our results suggest that intracameral GCV concentrations of ≥ 5 mg/mL may increase the risk of corneal endothelial damage although GCV concentrations of up to 0.5 mg/mL do not decrease cell viability.
Keywords: antiviral drugs • cornea: endothelium • drug toxicity/drug effects