Effect of modulators of the healing process on the proliferation of rabbits Tenon's fibroblasts in vitro

• Grant number: 10/17679-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: January 01, 2011
• End date: December 31, 2013
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Morphology - Cytology and Cell Biology
• Principal Investigator: Jayter Silva de Paula
• Grantee: Carolina Maria Módulo Ávila
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The surgical treatment of glaucoma (trabeculectomy - TREC) is a therapeutic option routinely indicated for this disease, mainly when clinical control is not adequate. Currently, antifibrotic agents (such as 5-Fluoracil and mitomycin C) are used to inhibit the excessive scarring often observed in these procedures. However, the use of these agents is associated with severe side effects most related to poor healing, and so, there is a need for the discovery of new, less aggressive, antifibrotic drugs. New compounds, such as phenolic derivatives and modulators of the renin-angiotensin pathway, have presented a potential antifibrotic action. The rosmarinic acid is a natural phenolic compound commonly found in species of Boraginaceae. Among its biological activities, we emphasize their antifibrotic and anti-angiogenic actions, poorly studied yet. Similarly, the reduction of angiotensin II action, via AT1 receptor's inhibition by Losartan, was associated with regression of fibrosis in some tissues. Based on these findings, they could be used as potential adjuvant agents to TREC, in clinical practice, with fewer side effects. Thus, the present project will study the effects of these drugs on the proliferation of fibroblasts in vitro, as well as gene expression and the presence of factors related to tissue healing observed in experimental surgical models. Specifically, we will develop culture techniques and evaluate rabbit Tenon's fibroblasts submitted to the proposed treatments besides the analysis of factors associated with the healing process, these parameters being the focus of this doctoral work. In addition to the training of the student, this work can provide the production of scientific data and information for dissemination and publication in refereed journals with international indexers. (AU)