Abstract
Purpose: :
to compare the efficacy of subconjunctival injections of ranibizumab (Lucentis) and bevacizumab (Avastin) for the treatment of corneal neovascularization in a mouse model.
Methods: :
Corneal neovascularization was induced by chemical irritation in 75 mice. The animals were then divided into three equal groups as follows: treatment with a subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (0.05mg/0.02ml); treatment with a subconjunctival injection of ranibizumab (0.002mg/0.02ml); or untreated (controls). The degree of corneal vascularization was computer-analyzed using digital photos on days 2, 4, 8, and 10 after induction of corneal injury. The level of expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was measured by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The results were compared between the study groups and the controls.
Results: :
The mean (SD) rates of neovascularization in the ranibizumab-treated eyes were 11% (±5.8) on day 2, 11.9% (±8.9) on day 4, 11.5% (±14.8) on day 8, and 2.3% (±3.18) on day 10 (p<0.01 for days 8 and 10 compared to control rates). Corresponding figures in the bevacizumab-treated group were 7% (±2.8), 15.7% (±6), 32.1% (±15.2), and 39.7% (±14.5). The corneal expression of VEGF was reduced in both treated groups compared to the control group, but the difference did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: :
A single subconjunctival injection of ranibizumab appears to be even more effective than a subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab in reducing corneal vascularization in mice. The most significant results are achieved on days 8 and 10 of treatment. Anti-VEGF agents are effective in the treatment of corneal neovascularization and might be applied for a wider clinical spectrum.
Keywords: cornea: basic science • neovascularization • growth factors/growth factor receptors