The P2X7 receptor is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of Uveitis

Abstract

PurposeAdenosine‐5′‐triphosphate (ATP) functions as an important extracellular messenger and plays a critical role as a danger signalling molecule during inflammation. In pathological conditions damaged cells leak high concentrations of ATP into the extracellular milieu, activating P2 Purinergic receptors which are highly expressed on immune cells. Pathological stimulation of the P2X7 receptor may be involved in the development of autoimmune disease, so we explored the impact of P2X7R antagonist treatment on the development of Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis (EAU) in mice.MethodsEAU was induced in P2X7‐/‐ and wild‐type mice using IRBP peptide 1‐20(GPTHLFQPSLVLDMAKVLLD) with adjuvant Bordetella pertussis toxin. All procedures were performed under a Home Office License in accordance with the regulations of UK ASPA (1986). EAU was then induced in B10.rIII mice with RBP‐3 161‐180 (SGIPYIISYLHPGNTILHVD) and adjuvant Bordetella pertussis toxin. P2X7R antagonist A439079275 or vehicle were injected i.p. twice daily from day 12. p.i when clinical features of EAU manifested. Disease activity was observed through TEFI imaging and animals were treated until peak disease and termination at day 16 p.i.ResultsP2X7R deficiency protected against the development of EAU, with disease scores significantly lower in P2X7‐/‐ animals compared to control animals. P2X7R antagonist treatment with A439079 prevented development of severe EAU with disease scores in A439079 treated animals significantly lower than vehicle treated animals.ConclusionsP2X7R deficiency protects against the development of EAU in mice and P2X7R antagonist can ameliorate established disease. The P2X7R may represent a viable therapeutic target for ocular inflammatory disease.