Recombinant Human MG53 Protein Protects Against Alkaline-Induced Corneal Injuries in Mice.

INTRODUCTION: The current study was designed to test the potential role of recombinant human MG53 (rhMG53) protein on protecting against alkaline-induced corneal injury in mice.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A round filter paper with 2-mm diameter was soaked in 1 mol/L of NaOH solution. The mouse alkaline injury was generated by placing the filter paper directly on the cornea for 30 seconds and washed with 30-mL saline; 10 µL of rhMG53 solution (20 µg/mL) or saline control was topically administrated on the mouse corneas (twice per day for 10 days). Re-epithelialization was measured by fluorescein staining and imaged by a slit lamp equipped with a digital camera. Clinical neovascularization and opacity scores were measured every day after injury. Ten days after injury, mice were sacrificed and corneas were dissected out for flat mount staining of CD31 for neovascularization.
RESULTS: MG53 was present in both dog aqueous humor and human tears. mg53-/- corneas were more susceptible to alkaline-induced corneal injury. Topical treatment of rhMG53 improved re-epithelialization, suppressed neovascularization, and fibrosis induced by alkaline injury.
CONCLUSIONS: rhMG53 may be an effective means to treat corneal wounding. © The Association of Military Surgeons of the United States 2021. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.