Effects Of Artesunate On Rat Corneal Neovascularization

【Objective】This study is to investigate the effects and mechanisms of artesunate on rat corneal neovascularization.【Methods】Corneal neovascularization was induced by alkali burns on 60 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. The experimental rats were randomly divided into CoNV control group and artesunate-treated group (treated by subconjunctival injection). Another 5 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats worked in normal control group. Digital slit lamp image system was used to evaluate the length and area of CoNV in each group at the 14th day. The protein level of VEGF and NF-κB at the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 14th days was investigated by immunohistochemistry, and the results were analyzed by picture quantitative analysis techniques.【Results】The mean length of neovascularization at the 14th day is 2.54±0.15mm for CoNV control group and 1.56±0.32mm for artesunate-treated group. Statistical analysis showed significant difference between CoNV control group and artesunate-treated group (t=6.173, P<0.01). The mean area of neovascularization at the 14th day is 27.552±0.490mm2 for CoNV control group and 21.501±3.031mm2 for artesunate-treated group. The difference between two groups was statistically significant (t=4.407, P<0.05).The protein level of VEGF and NF-κB in the cornea was markedly increased in CoNV control group in comparison with normal control group, while this increase was suppressed significantly in artesunate-treated group.【Conclusion】Artesunate can inhibit corneal neovascularization effectually by suppress the expression of VEGF and NF-κB.