Anti-collagenases in corneal necrosis

ABSTRACT

Studies suggest the role of an enzyme with collagenolytic activity in the pathogenesis of corneal necrosis associated with many inflammatory diseases of the cornea. The enzyme is elaborated by the epithelium of both healthy and pathologic corneas, the polymorphonuclear leucocytes and by some micro-organisms like the Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The known anti-collagenase cystein and EDTA which are able to prevent action of the enzyme on reconstituted collagen substrates in-vitro are successfully controlling corneal necrosis and ulceration of bacterial, viral and chemical origin. (Summary)