[Corneal epithelial cells and human conjunctival cell line (Chang) produce an interleukin 3-like factor]

Tissue mast cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of allergic eye diseases. In the study reported here the authors investigated whether human corneal epithelial cells and a human epitheloid conjunctival cell line (Chang) can produce an interleukin 3 (IL 3)-like mast cell-activating factor. The activity was detected at a m.w. of 15 and 30 kD, the isoelectric points were located at a pH of 7.85, 7.15 and 6.75. The authors believe that this cytokine, which is produced by epithelial cells of the cornea and conjunctiva, might play an important role in the pathogenesis of allergic ocular diseases.