Abstract
T helper (Th)-17 is a recently identified subtype of Th response that has been implicated in host defense and autoimmunity. We investigated whether there is evidence for a Th-17 response in human and experimental murine dry eye (DE). Gene expression in the human DE conjunctiva showed increased levels of the Th-17 inducers, interleukin (IL)-23, IL-17A, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). In the murine model, we found that desiccating stress increased matrix metalloproteinase-9, Th-17-associated genes (IL-6, IL-23, transforming growth factor-β1 and -2, IL-23R, IL-17R, IL-17A, retinoid-related orphan receptor-γt, and CC chemokine attractant ligand-20) and IFN-γ in cornea and conjunctiva. Furthermore, we found a significantly increased concentration of IL-17 in tears and number of IL-17-producing cells on the ocular surface. Antibody neutralization of IL-17 ameliorated experimental DE-induced corneal epithelial barrier dysfunction and decreased the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 3 and 9. Taken together, these findings suggest that IL-17 has a role in corneal epithelial barrier disruption in DE.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 243-253 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Mucosal Immunology |
Volume | 2 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2009 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Immunology