Thymosin beta 4: A novel corneal wound healing and anti-inflammatory agent

Abstract

Thymosin beta 4 (Tβ₄) is a low molecular weight protein present in all cells except erythrocytes. Although Tβ₄ is the major monomeric actin-sequestering peptide in cells and can depolymerize F-actin, evidence is mounting to support the idea that it has multiple, seemingly diverse, cellular functions. In cornea, as in other tissues, Tβ₄ promotes cell migration and wound healing, has anti-inflammatory properties, and suppresses apoptosis. In this review we discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the effects of Tβ₄ in maintaining the healthy, functional cornea. The clinical implications of the use of Tβ₄ as a wound healing and anti-inflammatory agent are discussed.

Keywords:

• apoptosis
• cell migration
• cornea
• inflammation
• thymosin beta 4
• wound healing