Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the angiogenic potential of transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-a). Recombinant human TGF-a (0.25 to 5.0 ug) was implanted in the rabbit cornea. The eyes were monitored daily for corneal opacification, dilation of limbal blood vessels, and the growth of new capillaries toward the implanted TGF-a. Two, 3 and 7 days post-implantation, the eyes were harvested for histology, transmission electron microscopy, or examination of vascular corrosion casts with scanning electron microscopy. TGF-a (2.5-5.0 ug) consistently elicited an influx of inflammatory cells followed by capillary formation. To determine if these inflammatory cells were the initiators and mediators of the angiogenic response, they were depleted by local administration of methylprednisolone acetate (MPA). The angiogenesis was reduced, but not completely blocked. These results suggest that TGF-a is capable of directly stimulating neovascularization. However, the direct angiogenesis appears to be augme...
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
