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Permeability studies in neonatal rat lens epithelium
N J Unakar1, M J Johnson, K Hynes
1Department of Biological Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan 48309.
Lens and Eye Toxicity Research
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Tight junctions form a barrier in the developing rat lens epithelium, restricting tracer passage. This barrier matures over time, influencing intercellular permeability and lens development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The lens epithelium acts as a barrier, but its permeability and tight junction development are not fully understood.
- Understanding intercellular communication is crucial for lens physiology and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate intercellular permeability in the rat lens epithelium.
- To identify the presence, location, and development of tight junctions in the maturing rat lens.
Main Methods:
- Utilized lanthanum nitrate (LN) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as tracers.
- Examined lens sections from Sprague Dawley rats at various ages (birth to 22 days) using electron microscopy.
- Employed HRP "washout" procedure to assess tight junction integrity.
Main Results:
- Both LN and HRP permeated intercellular spaces in the anterior and equatorial regions.
- LN precipitation ceased near the apical epithelium, indicating a seal or constriction.
- HRP demonstrated the presence and extent of tight junctions, which were age-dependent.
- Tight junction coverage increased significantly with age in the maturing rat lens.
Conclusions:
- Confirmed the existence of a tight junction barrier in the central anterior rat lens epithelium.
- Provided insights into the developmental pattern and distribution of tight junctions during lens maturation.
- Highlighted the role of tight junctions in regulating lens epithelial permeability.