Overexpression of HE4/WFDC2 Gene in Mice Leads to Keratitis and Corneal Opacity

The study investigates the effects of HE4 overexpression in transgenic mice, revealing that it leads to keratitis and corneal opacity. Mice with HE4 overexpression exhibited symptoms such as eye-scratching, conjunctiva inflammation, and hair loss around the eyes starting at 3 months old. All mice developed severe keratitis and corneal opacity, with increased levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the cornea. Immunostaining showed disorganized collagen, fibroblast activation, and vessel-like structures, indicating corneal opacification. The study suggests that HE4 plays a significant role in keratopathy and other eye conditions, as similar inflammatory responses were observed in a cornea alkali burn model with increased HE4 expression.