Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topically applied mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for the prophylaxis of corneal graft rejection in an experimental keratoplasty model. Methods: A total of 12 female Lewis rats received 3.5-mm MHC I/II-incompatible corneal grafts from DA donors. Recipients were randomly assigned to receive either topical MMF + β-cyclodextrin therapy (1%), β-cyclodextrin therapy alone or to remain untreated. Therapy was applied every 2 h (over 24 h) during the first 3 postoperative days, then twice hourly during daytime. Grafts were graded every day based on a rejection score including the parameters transplant clarity and edema. Results: The mean survival time (MST) of the grafts in the MMF-treated group was 12 days, the MST in the vehicle-treated group was 14.3 days and the MST in the untreated group was 13.3 days. So, the survival curves of the 3 treatment groups did not differ significantly. Conclusion: Topical MMF is ineffective for prophylaxis of corneal graft rejection.

Keywords:
Corneal transplantation, Corneal surgery, Drug delivery, Experimental surgery
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2009
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