[Investigation of scleral fibronectin in primary open-angle glaucoma: immunohistochemical study]

The present investigation was first to study scleral fibronectin (FN) levels in primary open-angle glaucoma, by applying an immunohistochemical study. The enhanced accumulation of this glycoprotein was found in the deep and inner scleral layers. Active FN expression was ascertained to correspond to the scleral morphological changes characteristic for glaucoma (garneting of collagenous fibers, accumulation of free glycosamine glycans) and to be of focal nature. The findings show the role of FN in the mechanisms of scleral destruction in primary open-angle glaucoma.