Effect of Lignocaine Concentration on Human Fibroblasts Growth in Eyes Undergoing Trabeculectomy: An in vitro Study

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of lignocaine on growth and apoptosis indication of primary human Tenon's capsule fibroblast (HTFs) in an in vitro model. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Tenon's capsule tissue obtained from patients undergoing trabeculectomy were grown in cell culture medium. The effect of different concentrations of lignocaine (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2%) on the morphology and growth of the fibroblasts was studied using microscopy, cell viability, and proliferation assay, and apoptosis was detected using the FITC Annexin V Apoptosis Kit. RESULTS: Morphological changes similar to those of apoptotic cells, including cytoplasmic vacuolation, shrinkage, and rounding were visualized in the cells treated with concentrations greater than 1.0% (i.e., 1.5, 2.0%). Though proliferation inhibition was found with all four concentrations (0.5–2.0%), the viability of cells decreased from 1.0% lignocaine. CONCLUSION: 0.5% lignocaine prevents proliferation of fibroblasts without causing apoptosis in vitro.