In vitro kinetics of basic fibroblast growth factor diffusion across a reconstituted corneal endothelium

We have studied the ability of bFGF to traverse and be trapped within basement membranes. An extract of EHS tumor (matrigel) coated on culture chamber filters was used as an in vitro model of basement membranes. Our results showed a slow diffusion of bFGF dependent on the amount of low affinity binding sites present within the matrigel. High amounts of bFGF and heparin increased the initial rate of diffusion by displacement of bFGF bound to matrigel. An in vitro corneal endothelium model (endothelial cells overlying matrigel) was also developed. This monolayer, with a weak permeability, decreased the kinetic rate of bFGF diffusion compared with matrigel alone. These results indicate that modulation of bFGF distribution in a tissue by a basement membrane is dependent on bFGF concentration, basement membrane composition, permeability of associated cells, and local presence of heparin. This selective control may be a regulating step in bFGF action.