The Effect of the Rho-Associated Protein Kinase Inhibitor, HA-1077, in the Rabbit Ocular Hypertension Model Induced by Water Loading

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect of a new anti-glaucoma drug, the Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, HA-1077, in a rabbit ocular hypertension model. METHODS: Experiments were carried out in 18 male New Zealand white rabbits, with ocular hypertension induced by water loading. Animals were divided into three groups followed by topical administration of 1 mM, 2 mM, and 3 mM HA-1077 in the left eye. As a control, phosphate buffered saline was administered in the opposite eye. RESULTS: After administration of HA-1077 eye drops, there was a significant time- and dose-dependent decrease of the IOP. While minor conjunctival injection was seen in a few cases, no abnormalities of the anterior chamber or fundus were observed. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of the effect of the ROCK inhibitor, HA-1077, on the IOP in an ocular hypertension model. Study results indicated that HA-1077 has a strong IOP-lowering effect.