HCE-T cell-based permeability model: A well-maintained or a highly variable barrier phenotype?

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Cell Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The immortalized human corneal epithelial (HCE-T) cell line is extensively used for transcorneal permeability studies.
• Understanding HCE-T barrier phenotype is crucial for accurate in vitro drug permeation models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize HCE-T barrier phenotype changes under standardized cultivation conditions.
• To evaluate how different polycarbonate membrane pore sizes influence HCE-T barrier properties.
• To determine which HCE-T model best predicts transcorneal drug permeation.

Main Methods:

• Cultivation of HCE-T cells on polycarbonate membranes with different pore sizes (0.4μm and 3μm).
• Evaluation of structural and functional barrier properties, including electrical resistance (Ω×cm²).
• Comparison of drug permeation prediction accuracy between the two models.

Main Results:

• Two distinct HCE-T barrier phenotypes were identified based on membrane pore size.
• Model I (0.4μm pores) exhibited a multilayered epithelium with weak barrier function (70-115Ω×cm²).
• Model II (3μm pores) showed improved barrier properties (1700-2600Ω×cm²) with lipophilic monolayers.

Conclusions:

• Cultivation conditions significantly impact HCE-T barrier phenotype and function.
• Model II (3μm pores) demonstrates superior predictive value for ophthalmic drug permeation.
• Monitoring HCE-T barrier phenotype variability is essential for reliable cell-based models in research.