A water-soluble carbon monoxide-releasing molecule (CORM-3) lowers intraocular pressure in rabbits. Issue 2 (31st October 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stagni, E; Privitera, M G; Bucolo, C; Leggio, G M; Motterlini, R; Drago, F
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 93:Issue 2(2009)
• Page Start: 254
• Page End: 257
• Publication Date: 2008-10-31
• Subjects: Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2007.137034
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Carbon monoxide-releasing molecules (CORMs) are a novel group of substances that are capable of modulating physiological functions via the liberation of CO. Aims: This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of CORM-3, a water-soluble CO-releasing agent, on two rabbit models of ocular hypertension. Methods: Ocular hypertension was induced by injecting α-chymotrypsin in the rabbit eye. The dose–response effect of CORM-3 on IOP was assessed by topical administration of the drug (0.001, 0.01, 0.1 and 1%). Ocular hypertension was also obtained by weekly subconjunctival injection of betamethasone, and animals were treated topically with CORM-3. A group of animals in both models was treated with the inactive form of the drug (iCORM-3). Results: CORM-3 induced a dose-dependent reduction in IOP in rabbits treated with α-chymotrypsin. A similar reduction in IOP was observed in rabbits with betamethasone-induced ocular hypertension treated with the drug. Treatment with the iCORM-3 had no effect on IOP in both models. Conclusions: Treatment with CORM-3 is associated with a reduction in IOP in two different rabbit models of ocular hypertension. These results support previous findings on the effect of haem oxygenase-derived CO on IOP and suggest a direct involvement of CO system in the regulation of ocular pressure probably through the modulation of aqueous humour dynamics.