Immunohistochemical localization of D-β-aspartic acid-containing proteins in pterygium

Biologically uncommon D-β-aspartic acid (D-β-Asp) residues have been reported to accumulate in organs affected by age-related disorders. In the present study, we investigated the localization of D-β-Asp-containing proteins in cases of pterygium, one of the most prominent age-related ocular conditions. Immunohistochemical localization of D-β-Asp-containing proteins was investigated in surgical specimens of pterygium from 20 patients and control specimens from 10 patients. Strong immunoreactivity to D-β-Asp-containing proteins was observed in subepithelial elastotic lesions and surrounding collagenous lesions from all surgical specimens with pterygia. In contrast, no immunoreactivity to D-β-Asp-containing proteins was seen in pterygium-free specimens. D-β-Asp-containing proteins are produced in organs as they are affected by the aging process. In addition, conversion of L- to D-aspartyl residues is accelerated by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Since pterygia can form due to aging or UV exposure, it is reasonable to find D-β-Asp-containing proteins in specimens with pterygia. Furthermore, since D-β-Asp is a non-native amino acid, D-β-Asp-containing proteins may be recognized as allogeneic antigens. Therefore, D-β-Asp-containing proteins in pterygia may responsible for the fibrovascular changes seen in the disorder.