Effects Of Lutein On The Growth And Migration Of Bovine Lens Epithelial Cells In Vitro

Objective To observe the effects of lutein on the growth and migration of bovine lens epithelial cells (BLECs) in vitro in an attempt to find a drug that can prevent after-cataract. Methods In this study, BLECs were cultured in vitro first and then different concentrations of lutein were added to the epithelial cell cultures of the second and third generations. The effects of lutein on the proliferation of BLECs in vitro were examined by the MTT method, and the migration of BLECs were evaluated by a wound scratch assay. Results 1.With lutein treatment varying from concentrations of 1umol/l to 16umol/l , the proliferation of BLECs decreased in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P<0.01). 2. The migration of BLECs was evaluated by wound healing rate. When compared to the control group, the wound healing rate of the experimental groups decreased from 0.672±0.164 to -0.234±0.144 and -0.597±0.063(P<0.01) at 1umol/l and 2umol/l, respectively. Conclusions 1. Specific concentrations of Lutein inhibited the proliferation as well as migration of BLECs in vitro 2.Lutein may become an effective drug to prevent after-cataract.