Impaired Immunomodulatory Properties of the Retina from the Inflammatory Environment of the Damaged Eye

In this study, we show that mouse retinal explants co-cultivated with stimulated spleen cells, inhibit in a dose-dependent manner the activation of T cells, and suppress the production of cytokines interleukin-2, interleukin-10, and interferon-\(\gamma\). The immunoregulatory properties of the retina were mainly mediated by a paracrine effect since retinal explants, separated by a semipermeable membrane, or supernatants obtained after the cultivation of retinal explants, inhibited the reactivity of immune cells. A model of retinal damage was established by the application of sodium iodate which selectively destroys photoreceptors, as it was demonstrated by a decrease in the number of rhodopsin-positive cells. This process was accompanied by increased infiltration of the retina with cells of the immune system and by a local inflammatory reaction. The pharmacologically damaged retina had significantly decreased the ability to inhibit T cell activation and production of cytokines by immune cells. Overall, the results showed that the retina possesses immunoregulatory properties and inhibits the activation and functions of T cells. However, the immunomodulatory properties of the retina are decreased if the retina is damaged.
Source: Inflammation - Category: Allergy & Immunology Source Type: research