In aggregate, these data suggest that CsA is a direct stimulus for EMT in renal tubule epithelial cells and implicate TGF-beta1 and CTGF as mediators of this response. The further delineation of the molecular components of this pro-fibrogenic response may suggest novel strategies through which to prevent CsA-induced tubulo-interstitial fibrosis in vivo.

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* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: This is a follow-up report on 103 THG:YAG (holmium) sclerostomies ab externo performed on 87 eyes of 81 patients. * PATIENTS AND METHODS: The patients received pulse energies of 0.06 to 0.13 J (mean total energy 4.4 ± 3.3 J, range 0.6 to 17.1 J). * RESULTS: The estimated success rates with or without medication, and allowing a second procedure, were 44% at 2 years and 36% at 4 years. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) was 29.7 ± 11.4 mm Hg, and the mean postoperative IOP in the successful patients was 13.6 ± 4.6 mm Hg (P < .01). Hypotony and iris incarceration were the most frequent early complications. * CONCLUSIONS: Although holmium laser sclerostomy is a relatively straightforward procedure and offers some advantages over standard trabeculectomy in select cases, it currently has a number of drawbacks that limit its use. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1996;27:823-831.]