Investigating Carcinine Transport and the Expression Profile of Transporter Genes in Human Corneal Epithelial Cells

Oxidative damage is associated with multiple ocular diseases including corneal disorders, cataract, and retinal degeneration. Thus, the possibility to use the multifunctional antioxidant carcinine (β-alanyl-histamine) as a therapeutic to prevent and reverse intracellular oxidative damage in ocular diseases is promising. Today, the major barrier to developing new ophthalmic treatments is the identification and implementation of effective methods of drug delivery in the eye. The aim of this study was to investigate carcinine transport and the expression profile of transporter genes in corneal epithelial cells. These cells form the blood-aqueous barrier of the cornea, preventing the penetration of topical drugs.