Penicophenone F from an Arctic Fungus Against UVB-Induced Corneal Damage via Inhibiting the ROS-EphA2 Pathway

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation-induced corneal injury poses a significant public health challenge. However, its underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood, hindering the development of effective interventions. This study identified a key molecular pathway in UVB-induced corneal damage, revealing that UVB exposure triggers a rapid intracellular burst of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in turn upregulates and aberrantly activates the receptor tyrosine kinase Ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EphA2), thereby collectively accelerating DNA damage and photoaging in corneal epithelial cells. Based on this mechanism, we developed the natural compound Penicophenone F (PP-F), which was screened and identified from the Arctic fungus Penicillium sp. MYA5, as a novel therapeutic strategy against UVB-induced corneal damage. In vitro and in vivo experiments suggest that PP-F may mediate its therapeutic effects via a dual mechanism. On one hand, it may counteract UVB damage by modulating ROS levels through regulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, inhibiting aberrant EphA2 activation, and promoting cellular proliferation and DNA repair. On the other hand, it may upregulate IRF6 to activate the cGAS pathway, which could enhance antioxidant defenses and significantly contribute to the restoration of epithelial barrier integrity and overall corneal physiology. These results underscore the safety and potential of PP-F in treating UVB-induced corneal damage and other oxidative stress-related ocular surface diseases.