ESCRS - PO961 - Toxicity And Efficacy Of Type I Interferons On The Ocular Surface: In Vitro, Animal, And Clinical Studies

Toxicity And Efficacy Of Type I Interferons On The Ocular Surface: In Vitro, Animal, And Clinical Studies

Published 2024 - 42nd Congress of the ESCRS

Reference: PO961 | Type: Poster | DOI: 10.82333/jb3q-vg12

Authors: Young In Yun* 1 , Seonghwan Kim 2 , Hyun Sun Jeon 3 , Namju Kim 3 , Mee Kum Kim 1 , Joo Youn Oh 1

1Department of Ophthalmology,Seoul National University College of Medicine,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of;Department of Ophthalmology,Seoul National University Hospital,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of;Laboratory of Ocular Regenerative Medicine and Immunology,Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of, 2Laboratory of Ocular Regenerative Medicine and Immunology,Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of;4Department of Ophthalmology,Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of, 3Department of Ophthalmology,Seoul National University College of Medicine,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of;Department of Ophthalmology,Seoul National University Bundang Hospital,Seongnam,Korea, Republic Of

Purpose

To investigate the toxicity of type I interferons (IFNs) on the ocular surface and assess their efficacy in ocular surface tumors.

Setting

This study includes a retrospective review of medical records of patients who recieved locoreginal IFN therapy for ocular surface disorders from January 2000 to September 2023 in Seoul National University Hospital and Seoul National University Bundang Hospital.

Methods

We examined the effects of IFN-α2a, IFN-α2b and IFN-β on corneal epithelial cells and stromal fibroblasts in vitro as well as the impact of IFN-α2a on the ocular surface in mice. Additionally, we analyzed the therapeutic and adverse effects of topically administered IFN-α2a and IFN-α2b in patients with ocular surface tumors. Risk factors contributing to side effects were explored. 

Results

IFN-α2a, -α2b or -β reduced cell viability and induced pro-inflammatory cytokines in corneal epithelial cells and stromal fibroblasts, and ehanced the expression of major histocompatibility complex II and CD40. In mice, subconjunctival IFN-α2a injection did not induce corneal epithelial defects or opacity, nor did it reduce aqueous tears or conjunctival goblet cells. In patients, IFN-α2a or IFN-α2b administration decreased tumor size and prevented recurrence; however, it was associated with mild side effects, including corneal epitheliopathy and conjunctival hyperemia. These complications were associated with longer IFN use, the presence of underlying ocular surface disease and concurrent use of mitomycin C or anti-glaucoma eye drops.

Conclusions

Although type I IFNs cause direct toxicity on corneal cells, they do not induce significant side effects on the healthy ocular surface. Considering its therapeutic and preventive effects, topical type I IFN is safe and effective for treating ocular surface tumors. The potential for ocular side effects should be considered in eyes with identified risk factors.