Development of herbal molecules in treating autoimmune uveitis: a narrative review
Keywords:
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester, Curcumin, Epigallocatechin gallate, Longdan Xiegan Tang, Peony root extract, Triptolide, UveitisAbstract
Current treatments for autoimmune uveitis involve the use of corticosteroids topically, locally (including subconjunctival, subtenon, orbital floor, and intraouclar injection), and systemically to attenuate the T cell–mediated response by impairing cell trafficking and activation to the uvea and dampening cell response to ocular antigens. However, long-term local injection of corticosteroids may result in raised intraocular pressure, cataracts, and glaucoma. Systemic use of steroids may result in severe morbidity. Immunomodulatory agents and biologics can circumvent some of these issues but may result in other adverse effects. Herbal molecules are potentially useful in treatment of autoimmune uveitis. We review the literature about the pathogenesis of autoimmune uveitis and the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of herbal molecules (curcumin, green tea, triptolide, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, total glucosides of peony, and Longdan Xiegan Tang) as a therapeutic option or supplement for autoimmune uveitis.
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