Potential protective effects of NSAIDs/ASA in oxidatively stressed human lens epithelial cells and intact mouse lenses in culture

Purpose: To study possible toxic effects of indomethacin, diclofenac, and celecoxib (NSAIDs) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) as well as potentially protective effects of these substances in oxidatively stressed human lens epithelial cells (HLEC) and in intact mouse lenses in culture. Methods: HLEC and mouse lenses were incubated with NSAIDs or ASA alone or in the presence of H2O2. To study apoptosis the cells were then either stained with Hoechst 33342 or assayed for caspase-3 activity. Mouse lenses were studied with respect to lens transparency. Results: Low concentrations of NSAIDs/ASA caused a significant protection against H2O2-induced apoptosis in HLEC whereas higher concentrations were toxic. Conclusion: The protective effects of NSAIDs/ASA against oxidative damage are confined to a relatively small therapeutic window. Copyright (C) 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel.