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Transcription of a single mannose receptor gene by macrophage and retinal pigment epithelium
C J Greaton1, K B Lane, V L Shepherd
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Ky., USA.
Abstract:
To determine if the macrophage mannose receptor transcript is present in mouse, rat, pig, and human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), primary cultures and/or freshly dissected retinal pigment epithelium from four different species were used to isolate total RNA. RT-PCR was used to amplify segments of the macrophage mannose receptor from each sample. Amplified products were sequenced and compared with known sequences of the macrophage mannose receptor. Macrophage mannose receptor transcripts were identified in all RPE samples. Comparison between sequences identified in RPE with macrophage sequences from the same species revealed 100% identity. Sequence homology between the different species was 74% or greater. These data are consistent with the transcription of a single mannose receptor gene by these two phagocytic cell types.
Insights
The macrophage mannose receptor transcript is present in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) of mice, rats, pigs, and humans. This finding suggests a shared genetic basis for this receptor in these phagocytic cells.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The macrophage mannose receptor plays a role in phagocytosis and immune response.
- Its presence and function in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of the macrophage mannose receptor transcript in the RPE of multiple species.
- To compare the sequences of the mannose receptor found in RPE with those in macrophages.
Main Methods:
- Primary cultures and freshly dissected RPE from mouse, rat, pig, and human were used.
- Total RNA was isolated, and RT-PCR was performed to amplify mannose receptor gene segments.
- Amplified products were sequenced and compared to known sequences.
Main Results:
- Macrophage mannose receptor transcripts were detected in RPE from all four species.
- Sequences from RPE showed 100% identity to macrophage sequences within the same species.
- Cross-species homology between RPE and macrophage sequences was 74% or greater.
Conclusions:
- The macrophage mannose receptor transcript is conserved across species in the retinal pigment epithelium.
- These findings support the transcription of a single mannose receptor gene by both RPE and macrophages.
