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Epithelial membrane protein-2 is expressed in discrete anatomical regions of the eye
Madhuri Wadehra1, Girija G Sulur, Jonathan Braun
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
Abstract:
Epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2) is a member of the four transmembrane superfamily (TM4SF) and is thought to mediate trafficking of diverse proteins such as alpha6beta1 integrin and MHC class I to lipid raft microdomains. EMP2 has also recently been recognized as a putative tumor suppressor gene in certain model systems. Normally, EMP2 is expressed at discrete locations in the body including high levels in the eye, lung, heart, thyroid, and uterus. Here we examine in detail the subanatomic distribution of EMP2 in murine and human ocular tissue. We observe that EMP2 is localized to epithelial layers of the cornea, ciliary body, and retinal pigmented epithelium-choroid, the stromal layers of the sclera, and the nerve fiber layer of the retina and optic nerve. This distribution is distinct from other TM4SF proteins and may relate to a role in apical membrane recycling.
Insights
Epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2), a protein involved in cell surface protein trafficking, is found in various eye tissues. Its specific ocular distribution suggests a role in maintaining eye health and function.
Area of Science:
- Ocular biology
- Cellular biology
- Molecular medicine
Background:
- Epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2) is part of the TM4SF superfamily, potentially regulating protein trafficking to lipid rafts.
- EMP2 is implicated as a tumor suppressor and is normally expressed in various organs, including the eye.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detailed subanatomic distribution of EMP2 within ocular tissues.
- To compare EMP2 distribution in murine and human eye samples.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis of ocular tissues from mice and humans.
- Microscopic examination to determine specific cellular and tissue localization of EMP2.
Main Results:
- EMP2 is localized to the epithelial layers of the cornea, ciliary body, and retinal pigmented epithelium-choroid.
- EMP2 is also found in the scleral stroma and the retinal nerve fiber layer, including the optic nerve.
- The observed distribution pattern differs from other TM4SF proteins.
Conclusions:
- EMP2 exhibits a distinct subanatomic distribution within the eye.
- This localization suggests a potential role for EMP2 in apical membrane recycling and ocular tissue homeostasis.