Cytokine Expression in Keratoconus and its Corneal Microenvironment: A Systematic Review

Abstract Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal ecstasia characterized by thinning and weakening of the cornea that leads to a cone-like appearance, scarring, and decreased vision. Despite the well-described clinical signs, the cause of KC is unknown. Nevertheless, various genes, proteinases, and...

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Published inThe ocular surface Vol. 13; no. 4; pp. 272 - 283
Main Authors Wisse, Robert P.L., MD, Kuiper, Jonas J.W., PhD, Gans, Renze, MD, Imhof, Saskia, MD, PhD, Radstake, Timothy R.D.J., MD, PhD, Van der Lelij, Allegonda, MD, PhD
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States Elsevier Inc 01.10.2015
Subjects
Animals
Cellular inflammatory mediators
Cellular Microenvironment - physiology
Cornea - metabolism
Cornea - pathology
cytokine
cytokine receptor
Cytokines - biosynthesis
Humans
keratoconus
Keratoconus - metabolism
Keratoconus - pathology
Ophthalmology
soluble inflammatory mediators
tear film
Tears - metabolism
cytokine
Cellular inflammatory mediators
tear film
cytokine receptor
keratoconus
soluble inflammatory mediators
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Summary:Abstract Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal ecstasia characterized by thinning and weakening of the cornea that leads to a cone-like appearance, scarring, and decreased vision. Despite the well-described clinical signs, the cause of KC is unknown. Nevertheless, various genes, proteinases, and environmental factors (eye-rubbing, contact lens wear, tear film composition) have been implicated in its etiology. Although classically defined as a predominantly degenerative disease, with mechanically induced trauma accelerating its course, accumulating evidence suggests a pivotal role for inflammation in the pathophysiology of KC. Several reports have linked various inflammatory mediators (cytokines) with KC, but with contradictory findings. The methods and materials used in these studies vary considerably and warrant critical evaluation to decipher the role of inflammatory mediators in KC. We performed a systematic review of current literature on cytokine expression studies in KC and discuss critical soluble and cellular inflammatory mediators that are implicated in its pathogenesis.
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ISSN:1542-0124
1937-5913
DOI:10.1016/j.jtos.2015.04.006