Evidence of the involvement of dystrophin Dp71 in corneal angiogenesis.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to define the role of dystrophin Dp71 in corneal angiogenesis. Methods: Inflammation-induced corneal neovascularization experiments were performed in Dp71-null mice and C57BL/6J wild-type mice. Results: The corneal neovascular area covered by neovascularization was larger in the injured corneas of the Dp71-null mice compared to the corneas of the wild-type mice: 40.72% versus 26.33%, respectively (p<0.005). Moreover, increased angiogenesis was associated with a high expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Similarly, aortic ring assays showed a significant enhancement of the neovascular area. Conclusions: These results suggest that dystrophin Dp71 could play an important role as a negative regulator of corneal angiogenesis.