Regenerative Effects Of Rki-1447 On Human Corneal Endothelial Cells: A Comparative Study
Published 2025 - 43rd Congress of the ESCRS
Reference: FP07.02 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/gp4f-p128
Authors: Ugur Tunc 1 , Dilan Colak 2 , Burcu Yakut* 3 , Aylin Kılıç 4
1Ophthalmology,Medipol University,Istanbul,Türkiye, 2Ophthalmology,Beyoglu Eye Trainning and Research Hospital,Istanbul,Türkiye, 3Ophthalmology,Haseki Trainning and Reseach Hospital,Istanbul,Türkiye, 4Ophthalmology,Swiss Vision Clinic,Istanbul,Türkiye
Purpose
This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of two Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitors (Y-27632 and RKI-1447) on human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) proliferation and wound healing.
Setting
University Hospital
Methods
Using a commercial primary HCEC line, three groups of HCECs were created; control (no treatment), Y-27632-treated, and RKI-1447-treated. The control, Y-27632, and RKI-1447 groups were compared regarding cell proliferation (5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine [BrdU] incorporation), wound healing (ImageJ analysis), and ROCK activity (ELISA).
Results
Both RKI-1447 (1 μM) and Y-27632 (10 μM) significantly enhanced HCEC proliferation when compared to the control group (p<0.05). However, RKI-1447 showed superior effect than the Y-27632 in terms of stimulating cell proliferation (p<0.05). Furthermore, endothelial wound healing was faster in the RKI-1447 group compared to the control and Y-27632 groups (p<0.05). Y-27632 was found to stimulate wound healing more than the control group only in the first 24 hours (p<0.05).
Conclusions
This pilot study demonstrated that RKI-1447 was more potent than Y-27632 regarding HCEC proliferation, endothelial wound healing and suppressing ROCK activity. However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are required to validate the efficacy of RKI-1447 and its superiority over Y-27632 and clinical applicability in the treatment of corneal endothelial failure.