C-X-C Chemokines Influence Intraocular Inflammation During Bacillus Endophthalmitis.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the C-X-C chemokines CXCL2 and CXCL10 as potential anti-inflammatory targets for Bacillus endophthalmitis.

METHODS

Bacillus endophthalmitis was induced in C57BL/6J, CXCL2-/-, and CXCL10-/- mice. At specific times postinfection, eyes were analyzed for Bacillus, retinal function, and inflammation. The efficacies of intravitreal anti-CXCL2 and anti-CXCL10 with or without gatifloxacin in B. cereus endophthalmitis were also assessed using the same techniques.

RESULTS

Despite similar Bacillus growth in eyes of C57BL/6J, CXCL2-/-, and CXCL10-/- mice, retinal function retention was greater in eyes of CXCL2-/- and CXCL10-/- mice compared to that of C57BL/6J mice. Neutrophil migration into eyes of CXCL2-/- and CXCL10-/- mice was reduced to a greater degree compared to that of eyes of C57BL/6J mice. Infected CXCL2-/- and CXCL10-/- mouse eyes had significantly less inflammation compared to that of C57BL/6J eyes. Retinal structures in infected eyes of CXCL2-/- mice were preserved for a longer time than in CXCL10-/- eyes. Compared to untreated eyes, there was less inflammation and significant retention of retinal function in eyes treated with anti-CXCL2 and anti-CXCL10 with or without gatifloxacin.

CONCLUSIONS

For Bacillus endophthalmitis, the absence of CXCL2 or CXCL10 in mice resulted in retained retinal function and less inflammation. The absence of CXCL2 led to a better clinical outcome than the absence of CXCL10. The use of anti-CXCL2 and anti-CXCL10 limited inflammation during B. cereus endophthalmitis. These results highlight the utility of CXCL2 and CXCL10 as potential targets for anti-inflammatory therapy that can be tested in conjunction with antibiotics for improving treating Bacillus endophthalmitis.