Effects of anti-glaucoma prostaglandin ophthalmic solutions on cultured human corneal epithelial cells.

PURPOSE: We compare the cytotoxicity of anti-glaucoma prostaglandin ophthalmic solutions on human corneal epithelial cells, and elucidate mechanisms of toxicity.

METHODS: Cell viability was examined using MTS assay, and morphological changes of the cells was observed. Induction of necrosis/apoptosis was measured by colorimetric caspase assay. The production of ROS and release of cytokines were analyzed using 2', 7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and bead-based indirect immunofluorescent assay, respectively.

RESULTS: Xalatan, Lumigan 0.01% and Lumigan 0.03% decreased cell viability and induced morphological changes. Xalatan and Lumigan 0.01% induced necrosis. Xalatan, Lumigan 0.01%, Lumigan 0.03% and Taflotan stimulated ROS production. Travatan and Lumigan 0.03% increased concentrations of IL-6 and IL-8 in culture media.

CONCLUSIONS: Xalatan and Lumigan 0.01% ophthalmic solutions demonstrated potent cytotoxicity compared with Lumigan 0.03%, Travatan, Taflotan and Taflotan UD. Taflotan UD, compared to Taflotan 0.0015%, induced less oxidative stress and apoptotic signalling. The cytotoxicity might be partly associated with benzalkonium chloride.