Therapeutic efficacy of subconjunctival injectionof canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells on canine spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defect

Abstract

Spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs) are important corneal injuries in dogs. Canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (cAD-MSCs) was used for treatment of various types of corneal ulcers in dogs. This study aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes and concentrations of tear fluid cytokine after subconjunctival injection of cAD-MSCs in canine SCCEDs. 9 canine SCCEDs eyes previously treated by debridement twice were included into this study. All eyes received a single subconjunctival injection of 1x106 cAD-MSCs. Ophthalmic examinations were undergone at day 7, 14 and 21 after treatment. Photographs of the cornea were taken to assess corneal epithelial defect, neovascularization and opacification area using image analysis software. Tear samples were collected using ophthalmic sponge for quantification of nerve growth factor- beta (NGF-β), vascular endothelium growth factor-A (VEGF-A), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) concentration using canine multiplex immunoassay. Complete corneal healing occurred in 9 eyes at the mean healing time of 10.89 ± 1.7 days. Percentage of the three corneal characteristics decreased compared to pretreatment. Concentration of TNF-α and VEGF-A decreased while that of NGF-β was inconclusive. In conclusion, single subconjunctival injection of cAD-MSCs can be used as an alternative treatment of canine SCCEDs without adverse effect.