Epigallocatechin gallate effect on Interleukin-1β and MMP-9 expression as Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis adjuvant therapy

Background: Keratitis Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most frequently occurring eye infection. It is a rapidly developing condition that can lead to ocular infections (endophthalmitis) and corneal perforation resulting in vision loss. Although prompt administration of antibiotics can effectively kill the bacteria, the corneal damage caused by toxins persists. The following inflammatory process results in corneal thinning, fibrosis, and eventual perforation. Methods: This study is a literature review to support future experimental studies which will be conducted to examine the expression of IL-1b and MMP-9 on pseudomonas keratitis after administration of EGCG. Results: Interleukin-1ß is a proinflammatory cytokine secreted by various immune cells in response to acute and chronic inflammation. At the same time, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) is a group of proteolytic enzymes involved in the pathophysiology of various ocular surface diseases. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the major polyphenol compound in green tea, produced from the Camellia sinensis plant. Recent studies suggest that EGCG has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on various cell types, including the cornea. EGCG inhibits IL-1β, which induces the activation of the NF-kB signaling pathway, which may explain the decrease in uPA expression and the reduction of collagen degradation by corneal fibroblasts. EGCG inhibits the activation of pro-MMP 9 produced by corneal fibroblasts in response to IL-1β stimulation, and this effect is mediated by the inhibition of uPA upregulation without a significant impact on pro-MMP 9 expressions. Conclusion: Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in Camellia sinensis extract has the potential as an alternative adjuvant therapy for bacterial keratitis because it has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.