Fibrosis suppression after trabeculectomy in rabbits by inhibitors p38 MAPK signal pathway

Objective To investigate the fibrosis suppression after trabeculectomy in rabbits by a p38 MAPK chemical inhibitor SB203580. Methods Twenty-four eyes of 12 rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups:group A (trabeculectomy alone group),group B (trabeculectomy + SB203580group),group C (trabeculectomy + MMC group).Bleb appearance and intraocular pressure were observed during a 14-d period.Histological and transmission electron microscopy examinations,immunohistochemistry observations were evaluated. Results SB203580 enhanced the surgical outcome and inhibited fibroblast differentiation when compared with PBS.Bleb appearance in the SB203580-treated eyes were much diffuse and less neovascularization than those in the trabeculectomy alone eyes on d7 and d14.No significant differences in IOPs were observed between groups.Histological and ultrastructure analysis showed that conjunctival epithelium cells,fibroblasts and fibrous tissue differed between groups. Conclusions Fibrotic reaction after trabeculectomy in rabbits is suppressed by inhibitor p38 MAPK signal pathway. Key words: Filtration surgery;  Fibrosis;  p38 MAPK;  Inhibitors