Effect of intestinal fungal dysbiosis on corneal wound healing in mice

Abstract:

AIM: To investigate the effect of intestinal fungal dysbiosis induced by antifungal drug on corneal wound healing in mice.

METHODS: Male C57BL/6J mice(free of eye disease)were divided into two groups randomly: control(Ctrl)group and amphotericin B treated(Amph)group, The Ctrl group was given a normal diet, and the Amph group was supplemented with amphotericin B to induce intestinal fungal dysbiosis. After 4wk intervention, corneal epithelial trauma was implemented in both groups. Corneal fluorescein staining was used to evaluate the corneal wound area dynamically. Immunofluorescence staining was applied to observe the changes of corneal epithelial cells and inflammatory cells. HE staining was used to assess the change of corneal thickness.

RESULTS: Compared with Ctrl group, Amph group had delayed re-epithelialization rate and wound repair, less inflammatory cells and thinner corneal.

CONCLUSION: Intestinal fungal dysbiosis delays the corneal wound healing, leading to a weak inflammatory response.