miR-497 knockout aggravates alkali burn-induced corneal neovascularization via VEGFA and FGF2 pathways in mice models

Abstract

Purpose: Corneal neovascularization (CNV) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of alkali burn. Recent studies have suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) may offer a novel therapeutic approach for treating CNV. However, the role of miR-497 in the context of alkali burns remains poorly understood. This study aims to explore the role and underlying mechanisms of miR-497 in the treatment of alkali burn-induced CNV in mice. Methods: C57BL/6 wild-type mice were used as the control group, while CRISPR/Cas9-mediated miR-497 knockout mice served as the experimental group. Mice were grouped based on time points following corneal burn injury. Corneal opacity was evaluated using a slit-lamp microscope and scored accordingly. The extent of CNV was quantified using ImageJ software. Pathological changes were observed via hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining, and CD31, VEGFA, and FGF2 expression were analyzed through immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: Following the successful induction of CNV, both mouse groups developed corneal opacity and CNV, with severity increasing as the alkali burn duration prolonged, reaching its peak at 14 days. The experimental group showed more corneal opacity and CNV than the control group, with HE staining revealing greater structural damage, neovascularization, and inflammation. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis showed a positive link between VEGFA and FGF2 expression and CNV growth, with higher levels in the experimental group than in the control. RT-PCR results confirmed this finding, as mRNA expression trends matched the IHC data. Conclusion: VEGFA and FGF2 are crucial in CNV development. miR-497 may regulate these pathways, balancing angiogenesis and inhibiting CNV.