[HLA antigen expression of human cornea. Effect of organ culture preservation]

The aim of this study is to examine the variation of HLA expression on organ-cultured human corneas. Using an indirect immunofluorescence technique and monoclonal antibodies anti-HLA-A, B, C and anti-HLA-DR histocompatibility antigens were detected. In fresh corneas class I antigens were detected on epithelium and stroma but not on endothelium. Class II antigens were not detected on any corneal layer but were present on Langerhans cells within epithelium and stroma. The expression of HLA-A, B, C antigens within the corneal epithelium and the corneal stroma was not altered by 28 days of organ culture. HLA-DR antigens were present on Langerhans cells on corneas that had been in organ culture up to 14 days (present 6/9). After 14-28 days in culture Langerhans cells were not found on most corneas (present 3/12). Corneal preservation in organ culture at 31 degrees C affects expression of HLA antigens particularly of HLA-DR antigens. Combination of HLA matching donor-recipient with an 10-15 days organ cultured corneal button in high-risk patients seems to be of interest.