Regulation of lens gap junctions by Transforming Growth Factor beta

Gap junction-mediated intercellular communication (GJIC) is essential for the proper function of many organs, including the lens. GJIC in lens epithelial cells is increased by FGF in a concentration-dependent process that has been linked to the intralenticular gradient of GJIC required for lens transparency. Unlike FGF, elevated levels of TGF-beta are associated with lens dysfunction. We show that TGF-beta1 or -2 up-regulates dye coupling in serum-free primary cultures of chick lens epithelial cells (dissociated cell-derived monolayer cultures [DCDMLs]) via a mechanism distinct from that utilized by other growth factors. Remarkably, the ability of TGF-beta and of FGF to up-regulate GJIC is abolished if DCDMLs are simultaneously exposed to both factors despite undiminished cell-cell contact. This reduction in dye coupling is attributable to an inhibition of gap junction assembly. Connexin 45.6, 43, and 56-containing gap junctions are restored, and intercellular dye coupling is increased, if the activity of p38 kinase is blocked. Our data reveal a new type of cross-talk between the FGF and TGF-beta pathways, as well as a novel role for TGF-beta and p38 kinase in the regulation of GJIC. They also provide an explanation for how pathologically increased TGF-beta signaling could contribute to cataract formation.