Expression of microsomal prostaglandin e synthase-1 in fibroblasts of rabbit alkali-burned corneas

Prostaglandin E2 is related to wound healing. Three different prostaglandin E synthases have been identified: microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES)-1, mPGES-2, and cytosolic prostaglandin E synthase. This study examined mPGES-1 expression in the cornea during the reparative process that occurs after an alkali burn.

mPGES-1 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels were examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Localization of mPGES-1 mRNA was examined by in situ hybridization. Using immunostaining, the localization of mPGES-1, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) protein was studied.

Although mPGES-1 mRNA is expressed in normal cornea, after a corneal injury, a progressive increase of mPGES-1 mRNA occurs. In this study, 2-6 weeks after injury, mPGES-1 mRNA was detected in the stromal spindle cells. Western blot analysis also showed that mPGES-1 protein expression was observed in normal cornea, with an increase noted from 2 to 4 weeks after corneal injury. mPGES-1 immunoreactivity was negative in normal cornea; however, starting at 2 weeks after injury, positive staining of the stromal spindle cells was noted. Although COX-2 and alpha-SMA immunoreactivities were negative in the stroma of normal cornea, after injury, staining was observed in the stromal spindle cells.

alpha-SMA-positive cells and myofibroblasts express mPGES-1 mRNA and protein, and in addition, mPGES-1 colocalized with COX-2, suggesting that myofibroblasts synthesize prostaglandin E2 and may act on and accelerate corneal wound healing.