Therapeutic Effect of Topical Adiponectin-Derived Short Peptides Compared with Globular Adiponectin in Experimental Dry Eye and Alkali Burn

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of adiponectin (APN)-derived short peptides (ADPs) 355 compared with globular APN in a mouse model of experimental dry eye (EDE) and corneal alkali burn. Methods: EDE and chemical burn were induced in C57BL/6 mice by desiccating stress and application of NaOH, respectively. Eye drops consisting of 0.01% globular APN, 0.01% ADPs, 0.1% ADPs, or balanced salt solution (BSS) were applied. Tear volume, tear film break-up time, and corneal staining scores were measured. Concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-6, CXCL-9, and CXCL-10 using multiplex immunobead assay were evaluated, and flow cytometry were performed. Corneal epithelial defects and haze degree were analyzed, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for IL-1β and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β levels were observed. Results: All treatment groups showed an improvement in clinical parameters and CD4+CCR5+ T cell and CD11b+ cell infiltrations in the conjunctiva (all P < 0.05). Both ADPs groups had significantly decreased concentrations of IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-6, CXCL-9, and CXCL-10 in the conjunctiva than the EDE or BSS group. Significantly improved parameters of epithelial defect, degree of haze, and concentrations of IL-1β and TGF-β were observed in all treatment groups. However, no significant differences were noted in clinical or experimental parameters among treatment groups. Conclusion: Topical ADPs could effectively improve clinical signs and inflammation of ocular surface in the EDE or alkali burn, and its efficacy and potency were similar to those of globular APN.