Molecular basis of the microtubule-regulating activity of microtubule crosslinking factor 1.

The variety of microtubule arrays observed across different cell types should require a diverse group of proteins that control microtubule organization. Nevertheless, mainly because of the intrinsic propensity of microtubules to easily form bundles upon stabilization, only a small number of microtubule crosslinking proteins have been identified, especially in postmitotic cells. Among them is microtubule crosslinking factor 1 (MTCL1) that not only interconnects microtubules via its N-terminal microtubule-binding domain (N-MTBD), but also stabilizes microtubules via its C-terminal microtubule-binding domain (C-MTBD).

Assessment safety and efficacy of a combination therapy of topical amphotericin B and subconjunctival fluconazole for the treatment of fungal keratitis.

Purpose: The study was aimed at evaluating the treatment of fungal keratitis using a combination therapy of a low concentration of topical amphotericin B (0.2 mg/mL) eye drops together with subconjunctival injections of 2 mg/mL of fluconazole.

Methods: The study was carried out in the Ophthalmology Department of Zagazig University Hospital and included 12 patients with 12 pairs of eyes with resistant corneal ulcers that had the following clinical features suggesting fungal keratitis: thick elevated ulcer, feathery edge, and gutter formation.