Increased Th17 cells and IL-17 in rats with traumatic optic neuropathy

T helper 17 (Th17) cells are strong inducers of numerous autoimmune diseases and inflammation. However, the role of Th17 cells and interleukin (IL)-17 in traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) are yet to be elucidated. In the present study, a rat model of TON was established using a fluid percussion brain injury device. Th17 cells were found to be upregulated in the spleens of rats in the TON group. In addition, the level of IL-17 in the retina of rats in the TON group was observed to increase with the upregulation of the Th17 cells. Furthermore, the expression of IL-17 in the optic nerve was found to be upregulated between one and seven days following injury in the rats in the TON group. These findings strongly suggest that the ratio of Th17 cells and the expression of IL-17 are upregulated in rats with TON. These findings also provide a rationale for developing therapeutic agents to treat TON.