Abstract:

Objective·To investigate association between FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) and ocular neovascularization (NV) and explore the mechanisms of action of a novel FLT3 inhibitor AC220 in inhibiting ocular NV. Methods·A mouse model of oxygen induced retinopathy (OIR) and a mouse model of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) were constructed. FLT3 expressions in two models were detected by immumofluorescence method and ELISA. AC220 was intravitreally administrated and the effects of AC220 on ocular NV and the number of dendritic cell (DC) were investigated by immumofluorescence method. Results·The level of retinal FLT3 was significantly higher in the OIR and CNV groups than in the control group. Intravitreal administration of AC220 significantly reduced the ocular NV area in OIR and CNV groups and decreased the number of DC in retina. Conclusion·FLT3 is closely associated with ocular NV. AC220 can inhibit the development of NV, adjust the number of DC, and is a potential adjuvant medicine for anti-NV treatment.

Key words: FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3, AC220, retinal neovascularization, choroidal neovascularization, dendritic cell