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Human corneal and conjunctival epithelia express MUC1 mucin
T Inatomi1, S Spurr-Michaud, A S Tisdale
1Schepens Eye Research Institute, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Human corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells synthesize MUC1 mucin. This transmembrane mucin plays a role in ocular surface protection and tear film spread.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- MUC1 mucin is a transmembrane protein found in various simple epithelia.
- Its presence and function in the complex stratified epithelia of the ocular surface are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether human corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells synthesize MUC1 mucin.
- To determine the distribution and characteristics of MUC1 in these ocular tissues.
Main Methods:
- Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect MUC1 mRNA.
- Northern blot analysis for MUC1 gene transcription.
- In situ hybridization for MUC1 mRNA distribution.
- Immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry using MUC1-specific antibodies (HMFG-1, 139H2).
Main Results:
- MUC1 mRNA was detected in cultured corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells.
- Northern blot revealed two MUC1 transcript sizes in corneal epithelium.
- MUC1 mRNA was present in all corneal epithelial layers.
- MUC1 protein was detected on the apical membranes of corneal epithelium and in the basal conjunctiva, excluding goblet cells.
Conclusions:
- The stratified epithelia of the cornea and conjunctiva synthesize MUC1 mucin.
- MUC1 may contribute to tear film dynamics and prevent pathogen adhesion on the ocular surface.