[Effect of KH902 in inhibiting suture induced corneal neovascularization].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of topical KH902 on experimental corneal neovascularization (CNV) in rats. METHODS: Suture models of CNV were established in 60 adult healthy rats. The rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: Group A (20 rats) were treated with KH902 (KH902 30 mg/mL was injected subconjunctivally once every other day); Group B (20 rats) were treated with dexamethasone (0.1% dexamethasone was injected subconjunctivally once every other day); Group C (20 rats) served as blank control. CNV growth were observed by slitlamp microscopy 3, 7 and 14 d after suture. Medicines were administered 14 d after operations. CNV changes were observed and recorded 1, 7, 14, and 21 d after administration of medicines. VEGF expression in cornea was measured by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: No significant differences were found in average areas of CNV between groups at 1 and 7 d after administration of medicines. At 14 and 21 d after administration of medicines, significant differences in average areas of CNV were found between Group A and Group C, and between Group B and Group C (P < 0.01). Maximum expression of VEGF in corneal stroma was observed 14 d after corneal suture. The expression of VEGF decreased with medications, which was associated with neovascularization. CONCLUSION: Topical use of KH902 inhibits corneal suture-induced CNV in rats without significant adverse corneal effect on eyes.