Synthesis and Protective Mechanisms of Fluorescent Copolymers against Multi-Band UV-Induced Photodamage in HCE-T Cells

The corneal epithelium, the outermost barrier of the eye, is particularly susceptible to UV-induced photodamage. Owing to the limited protection provided by physical defense strategies, there is a critical need for effective UV-protective ocular medications. In this study, novel fluorescent copolymers were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-UV properties in human corneal epithelial (HCE-T) cells. These copolymers provided substantial protection to HCE-T cells against damage from various types of UV radiation. The protective effects were attributed to their ability to attenuate oxidative damage caused by UVA radiation and mitigate direct DNA damage induced by UVB and UVC radiation. Mechanistic investigations revealed that their antioxidant and DNA repair activities are mediated through the regulation of the PERK and NER signaling pathways. These findings underscore the potential of these functional polymers as promising ophthalmic agents against broad-spectrum UV-damage.