Effect of PAF on the Blood-Tear Barrier
Author Information
Author(s): J. L. van Delft, F. Meijer, J. A. van Best, N. J. van Haeringen
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Does the application of platelet-activating factor (PAF) to the eye cause leakage of fluorescein and albumin from blood into tears?
Conclusion
The study found that fluorescein and albumin leaked into tears after PAF application, indicating increased vascular permeability.
Supporting Evidence
- Fluorescein and albumin appeared in tears after PAF application, but were absent in control eyes.
- The concentrations of fluorescein and albumin in lavage fluid were significantly correlated.
- Fluorescein concentrations in plasma varied from 11.2 to 25.0 mg/ml.
- Albumin concentrations in lavage fluid varied from 0 to 376 mg/ml.
Takeaway
When a special substance called PAF is put in the eye, it makes some colored liquid and proteins leak from the blood into the tears.
Methodology
Eight guinea pigs were injected with fluorescein and then treated with PAF; tears were collected and analyzed for fluorescein and albumin concentrations.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size of guinea pigs and may not be generalizable to other species.
Participant Demographics
Eight female Hartley strain guinea pigs, weight range 350-450 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
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