Abstract
Purpose: :
Corneal neovascularisation is a common complication of chronic corneal diseases. Bevacizumab eyedrops have been shown to effectively reduce corneal vascularisation. However, recurrence of neovascularisation is frequent after discontinuation of treatment. Aim of this study was to evaluate amniotic membranes as potential carrier for anti-VEGF drugs to provide constant VEGF blockade.
Methods: :
Human amniotic membranes (HAM) were incubated with bevacizumab concentrations in organ culture medium for two days and for one week. Controls were incubated without bevacizumab. Then, all samples were incubated in organ culture medium without bevacizumab for 48h, 72h or for one week at 37°C. After that, VEGF165 was added to the supernatants for 24 hours and free VEGF 165 was measured by ELISA.
Results: :
Free VEGF was effectively blocked at 48 hrs, 72 hrs and after one week. VEGF blockade was less pronounced after one week. However, as compared to control, VEGF was markedly blocked at all times.
Conclusions: :
Amniotic membranes might be potentially used as a slow-release device for drugs delivered to the cornea. In this in vitro setting, we could demonstrate effective VEGF-blockade for up to one week by incubating amniotic membranes with bevacizumab. In vivo results are pending.
Keywords: neovascularization • wound healing