[Localization of Mn-SOD mRNA in rat cornea by in situ hybridization]

We investigated the localization of Mn-SOD mRNA in the rat cornea under physiological conditions using in situ hybridization. A Mn-SOD cDNA probe was synthesized by polymerase chain reaction. Slot blot analysis was performed to confirm that the cDNA probe hybridizes with rat Mn-SOD mRNA. Frozen sections of rat cornea were subjected to in situ hybridization using 3H-labeled Mn-SOD cDNA probe. The results demonstrated the expression of Mn-SOD mRNA in the rat corneal epithelial layer. We suggest that corneal epithelial cells are constantly exposed to active oxygen stress even under physiological conditions and synthesize Mn-SOD to protect themselves from the stress.