Dr.Pallak Kusumgar, P16857
Purpose: Role of inflammation in KC pathogenesis is well known. In this study we investigate the novel role of a transcription factor (Retinoic acid-related Orphan Receptor gamma–RORg) in regulating inflammation in KC
Methods: Corneal epithelium and tears from KC patients(n=17) undergoing collagen crosslinking and controls(n=12) undergoing surface ablation for refractive correction were collected. mRNA expressions of RORg, RORgT and MMP9 was measured by qPCR and tear cytokines by ELISA
Results: Significantly higher expression of RORg, RORgT and MMP9 was observed in KC epithelium compared to controls. These expressions were higher in cone region of epithelium than in periphery. Positive correlation was seen between RORgT and MMP9 expression in KC. Tear IL-17 levels was also high in KC.
Conclusion: Increased RORg/gT expression is linked to KC pathogenesis. This new find can be used to formulate topical drugs targeting specific factors to halt KC progression and manage early stages of KC.
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